The U.S. tariff comes after the European Union moved to put an import tax on American whiskey.

Summary

Donald Trump announced a planned 200% tariff on French and EU alcoholic beverages in response to the European Union’s decision to reinstate tariffs on American whiskey.

Trump accused the EU of unfair trade practices and demanded an immediate reversal of its 50% whiskey tariff.

The EU’s move is part of broader retaliation against U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs.

The dispute has rattled liquor stocks, with major European brands like LVMH and Remy Cointreau dropping, while U.S. alcohol stocks, including Jack Daniels’ parent Brown-Forman, also declined.

  • ramble81@lemm.eeEnglish
    1·
    1 day ago

    I mean technically anyone can call it champagne. I believe the only law is in France itself or possibly the EU. But I’d be curious how enforceable it is outside of gentlemen’s agreements.

    • JohnEdwa@sopuli.xyzEnglish
      3·
      20 hours ago

      France has a worldwide trademark on the name Champagne since 1891, and it is one of the many named protected EU wide by the “protected designation of origin” registry.
      But you can find “legal” US Champagne, because “California Champagne” was a separate trademark - any US manufacturer that made it before 2005 can continue using it.

      Though it would be kinda hilarious if the Trump decided to start disrespecting global trademarks like that, as that’s something that works both ways. Care for some French or Canadian made Tennessee Whisky, anyone?