US lawmaker seeks Indian market for California wine

California Republican Congressman James Gallagher has urged the Trump administration to prioritize opening markets in India and Vietnam to California wines. In a letter to US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, Gallagher highlighted that American growers are struggling with declining domestic consumption, restricted access to Canada, and federal regulations that may disadvantage domestic producers.

Gallagher noted that while industry leaders view India and Vietnam as high-growth markets, significant barriers to entry remain due to ongoing tariff negotiations. He also called for the administration to work on restoring market access in Canada.

Additionally, the Congressman requested a review of US wine-labeling regulations. Under current Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau rules, wine labeled as “United States” or “American” must contain at least 75 percent American-grown agricultural products, but the remaining 25 percent can consist of imported ingredients. Gallagher argued that this allowance could weaken demand for California grapes and depress local prices.