United States tariffs threaten wine and spirits imports and jobs

The United States is moving toward a more protectionist trade agenda, emphasizing domestic manufacturing and supply‑chain security. New proposals under the incoming administration could impose tariffs of up to 25 % on imported wine and spirits from Mexico and Canada, and broader tariffs of 10‑30 % on all imported beverages.

Analysts estimate the measures could jeopardise up to 100,000 U.S. jobs, erase up to $5 billion in tax revenue and cut billions in economic output. Imports currently account for roughly one‑third of the U.S. wine and spirits market, which has already seen a 5.2 % volume decline. The tariffs are part of a wider strategy that also includes heightened tariffs on European goods and export controls on Asian technology, reflecting a shift from multilateral liberalisation to bilateral leverage.

Stakeholders such as the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America warn that many products—particularly Scotch whisky, Champagne and tequila—have no domestic substitutes, so the proposed duties could raise prices for consumers and disrupt the hospitality sector.