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French Winemakers Brace for Uncertain US Tariff Impact
28 Jul
Summary
- US is top export market for Bordeaux wines, accounting for 20% of sales
- Uncertainty over changing US tariff policies, from 10% to 50% and now 30%
- Some merchants rushed shipments to mitigate losses
French wine producers are currently facing a period of uncertainty as they grapple with the potential impact of US tariffs on their exports. The Bordeaux region, known for its renowned vineyards, is particularly concerned, as the United States is by far the top export market for their wines, accounting for around 20% of total sales, or 400 million euros annually.
The situation has been further complicated by the unpredictable nature of US trade policies under the Trump administration. Over the past months, the proposed tariffs have fluctuated from 10% to 50% and now stand at 30%, effective from August 1st. This lack of clarity has left producers and merchants in a state of anxiety, as they struggle to plan and adapt their strategies accordingly.
In response to the looming threat, some merchants have tried to mitigate their losses by increasing shipments to the US market. However, this is not seen as a sustainable long-term solution, as the industry representatives have expressed concerns over the industry's ability to withstand such unpredictable policies. The recent trade deal between the US and the European Union has also failed to provide any clarity on the future of wine tariffs, further adding to the industry's woes.