Trump Administration Threatens 200% Tariff on European Liquors Amid Ongoing Trade Dispute

As President Trump prepares to unveil sweeping new tariffs, the administration is also threatening a staggering 200% tariff on European liquors—though it’s not expected to be included in tomorrow’s official announcement.

The move comes in retaliation to the European Union’s recent 50% tariff on American-made whiskey. Distilleries across the U.S., including J. Rieger & Co. in Kansas City, are watching developments closely and bracing for potential fallout.

“We don’t really have many options in America unless we want to pay three times what we’re paying,” said a representative from J. Rieger, which produces its own whiskey on-site. The company relies on key imported materials—like glass bottles, botanicals, and sherry wine—all sourced from Europe.

If the 200% tariff is enacted, it could drastically raise production costs, disrupt supply chains, and force distillers to raise prices.

“There are a lot of times where you have products that you just can’t get in America,” the company said, explaining the limited domestic alternatives.

The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States is urging the Biden administration to step back from escalating trade tensions and return to a “zero for zero” tariff policy that benefits both sides.

For now, J. Rieger & Co. says it’s holding off on making any changes to pricing or materials until a final decision is made.

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