Italian Wine Exports Under Threat: Tariffs Loom Over U.S. Market

Italian wine and spirits exports to the U.S. are threatened by potential 200% tariffs from President Trump, causing importers to halt shipments. The tariffs are part of a broader trade conflict involving European imports. Producers and trade groups are urging governmental action to avert a market crisis.

Italian wine and spirits exports to the United States face a looming crisis as potential tariffs from President Donald Trump threaten to disrupt the market. The trade group Federvini has reported concerns that imports could face a 200% tariff, creating significant uncertainty for exporters.

The tariff proposal is part of a broader trade war encompassing European steel and aluminium imports. With a major tariff announcement expected from the White House, Italian wine shipments have stalled, with importers hesitant to risk uncompetitive prices on arrival.

Importers' caution has led to suspended shipments and increased prices for available wines in the U.S. market. Industry figures and trade groups are lobbying Italian and European authorities to intervene as export figures, previously buoyant, now hang in the balance, notably impacting Italian prosecco producers.

(With inputs from agencies.)