The potential imposition of 200% tariffs on European Union wine imports poses a severe threat to the U.S. wine industry, causing uncertainty and distress among importers. Chris Stauffenegger, who owns Vigneron Imports, expressed her concern that these tariffs could jeopardize her business, describing the situation as 'asinine and insane.' The conflict stems from retaliatory tariffs between the U.S. and the EU, with significant implications for small family winemakers in Europe who rely heavily on the U.S. market. The financial stakes are high, as U.S. wine importers invested $6.8 billion in 2024, largely sourcing from the EU.
When asked if she wanted to discuss the 200% tariffs the Trump administration is threatening on wine imported from the European Union, Chris Stauffenegger said she'd really rather not.
It's beyond asinine and insane, but as usual, it's so unpredictable and it's just a massive bully move,' she said. 'Should the tariffs go through, it's very likely it would put us out of business.
President Donald Trump first suggested the 200% tax on all wine and spirits imported from the European Union on March 13 in response to the EU's plans for a 50% tax on imports of U.S.-produced whiskey.
U.S. wine importers spent $6.8 billion to bring wine into the U.S. in 2024, according to Axios. European Union producers make up 80% of those imports.
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