Overview

• Under the framework, a 15% baseline tariff will apply to most EU goods from next month with zero-duty spirits trade awaiting final sign-off.
• White House officials have downplayed further exemptions beyond aviation, leaving wines and champagne facing the 15% levy unless carve-outs are agreed.
• French officials including Eric Lombard and Laurent Saint-Martin are intensifying diplomatic efforts in Washington and Brussels to secure exemptions for champagne, cognac and select wines.
• Trade bodies such as the Comité Européen des Entreprises Vins and the U.S. Distilled Spirits Council are pushing for a reciprocal zero-for-zero tariff arrangement to preserve bilateral alcohol markets.
• The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers Association warns that a 15% hike in wine duties could eliminate 17,000 American jobs and cost U.S. businesses over $2.5 billion annually.