EU Delays 50% Retaliatory Tariffs on US Whiskey, Goods Until April 13/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ The European Union has delayed 50% tariffs on American whiskey and other U.S. goods, originally set to take effect on April 1 in response to President Donald Trump’s steel and aluminum tariffs. The EU announced Thursday that the tariffs, which also target motorboats, motorcycles, and agricultural products, will now take effect April 13, pending further negotiations. The delay comes as Trump prepares to unveil a new wave of tariffs on imports, including lumber, autos, and copper. U.S. whiskey distillers welcomed the delay, hoping for a resolution that prevents severe financial losses.
EU Tariffs on U.S. Goods – Quick Look:
- What’s happening? The EU is delaying 50% tariffs on U.S. goods.
- Why? To allow more time for negotiations with Trump’s administration.
- What goods are affected? Whiskey, motorcycles, motorboats, poultry, beef, soybeans, tomatoes.
- New tariff start date? April 13, 2025, instead of April 1.
- How much trade is impacted? $28 billion worth of U.S. exports.
- U.S. response? Trump has threatened 200% tariffs on EU wine.
- Industry reaction? U.S. whiskey distillers see this as a positive step.
EU Delays 50% Retaliatory Tariffs on US Whiskey, Goods Until April 13
Deep Look – EU Delays Tariffs on U.S. Goods Amid Trade Standoff
Why Did the EU Delay Its Tariffs?
The European Union originally planned to roll out 50% tariffs on April 1 as a direct response to Trump’s 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports. However, EU officials announced Thursday that the tariffs will now go into effect on April 13, allowing for more time for talks with U.S. officials.
“The change represents a slight adjustment to the timeline and does not diminish the impact of our response.” — Olof Gill, EU Commission Spokesperson
What Goods Are Affected?
The tariffs target $28 billion worth of U.S. exports and were initially planned in two phases:
- Phase 1 (originally April 1) – 50% tariffs on whiskey, motorcycles, and motorboats.
- Phase 2 (originally April 13) – Tariffs on beer, poultry, beef, soybeans, tomatoes, raspberries.
- Now, both phases will take effect simultaneously on April 13.
Trump’s Response: More Tariffs Coming?
The delay comes as Trump prepares to announce a new round of tariffs on April 2, which will affect lumber, autos, copper, and other imported goods.
“Countries are taking the president seriously… He is going to do what’s right for American workers and families.” — White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt
In response to the EU’s retaliatory measures, Trump has threatened a 200% tariff on European wine and spirits, escalating tensions further.
Industry Reaction: Whiskey Distillers Breathe a Sigh of Relief
The U.S. Distilled Spirits Council, which represents American whiskey producers, welcomed the delay:
“This gives U.S. distillers a glimmer of hope that a devastating 50% tariff on American whiskey can be averted.” — Chris Swonger, CEO of the Distilled Spirits Council
What Happens Next?
- Negotiations between the U.S. and EU will continue ahead of the April 13 deadline.
- Trump’s administration is expected to reveal new tariffs on April 2, further complicating trade relations.
- Industries affected by tariffs—such as whiskey, agriculture, and autos—will watch closely for signs of a trade compromise.
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