The European Commission confirmed on Thursday, September 25, that it continues to push for an exemption from US customs duties on wines and spirits from the European Union.
A spokesperson stressed that the request remains a top priority for Brussels, though no timetable has been provided for when discussions with Washington might conclude.
Impact on Key Wine-Producing Nations
The demand is particularly important for France, Italy, and Spain, the EU’s largest exporters of wine and alcoholic beverages to the United States. These countries have been hit hardest by customs duties, which weigh heavily on their competitiveness in one of the world’s most lucrative markets for premium wines and spirits.
Trade Context and Parallel Negotiations
The announcement comes shortly after the United States officially reduced tariffs on European cars, a move tied to recent trade talks between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and US President Donald Trump in New York. According to Commission spokesperson Olof Gill, Washington has already taken the steps necessary to implement its commitments under the July trade agreement.
Under the new terms, European products entering the United States face an additional 15% tariff. While higher than the rates applied before Trump’s return to the White House, this level is significantly lower than the steeper tariffs the administration had previously threatened.
Cars remain a sensitive sector. Since April, European vehicles have faced a 25% surcharge on top of the standard 2.5% import duty. The recent tariff reduction—applied retroactively to August 1—has been met with relief by European carmakers, particularly German brands with strong US market exposure.
Ongoing Issues: Wine, Spirits, and Steel
While progress has been made on cars, several sectors remain under negotiation. Brussels is pressing for fairer terms on wine and spirits, arguing that the current duties disproportionately affect Europe’s most traditional and globally competitive industries.
At the same time, the European Commission is designing an import quota system for steel, which would allow certain volumes of European steel to enter the US market without being subjected to the current 50% tariff.
A Fragile Balance in Transatlantic Trade
The reciprocal tariff adjustments highlight the fragile balance of ongoing EU-US trade relations. While some concessions have been secured, other high-value sectors—including wine and spirits—remain at the heart of unresolved disputes.
For European producers, especially in France, Italy, and Spain, the outcome of these talks will be decisive for market access and long-term competitiveness in the United States. For now, the European Commission insists that securing an exemption for wine and spirits remains a “priority,” though the path to resolution appears far from certain.
Source: Vinetur