Trump threatens 200 percent tariff on European wine in latest escalation

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🗞️ Driving the news: President Donald Trump has threatened to impose a 200% tariff on European wine, champagne, and alcoholic products
• This comes after the European Union announced a 50% tariff on American whiskey in retaliation for Trump’s steel and aluminum tariffs
• Trump criticized the EU as “one of the most hostile and abusive taxing and tariffing authorities in the World”

🔭 The context: The EU's new tariffs target $28 billion worth of U.S. goods, including home appliances, motorcycles, and agricultural products
• Trump argues that his tariffs on steel and aluminum were necessary to protect American industry
• European leaders and industry representatives are calling for negotiations to avoid further economic damage

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Trade wars impact global supply chains and economic stability, potentially reducing investments in sustainable industries
• The increased costs for U.S. and European businesses could slow green innovation in sectors like agriculture and manufacturing
• Higher tariffs might also affect sustainable wine production by limiting exports and increasing costs

⏭️ What's next: European officials, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, are signaling willingness to negotiate
• Industry leaders in both Europe and the U.S. are urging a zero-for-zero tariff agreement to avoid mutual economic harm
• If tensions escalate, further trade restrictions could worsen inflation and economic uncertainty

💬 One quote: "We want toasts, not tariffs." — Chris Swonger, CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council

📈 One stat: A 200% tariff on European wines could cost the EU €4.9 billion ($5.32 billion) in lost sales to the U.S.

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