French winemakers worried about US tariffs

The decision is particularly sensitive for the sparkling wine and wine sectors, which are one of France’s cultural and economic flagships. French Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard told X: “This is a serious concern for our emblematic sectors.”

According to the industry, the combined effect of the tariffs and unfavorable exchange rates could cost the French wine and spirits industry up to 1 billion euros in lost revenue each year. Gabriel Picard, president of the French Wine and Spirits Exporters Association, expressed disappointment, noting that the United States is the largest market for sparkling wine, accounting for 10 percent of French exports by volume and 15 percent by value.

Frederic Zeimett, CEO of Leclerc-Briant, said the new tariffs would inevitably increase prices for American consumers, threatening jobs in both France and the United States along the supply chain. The sector is already struggling with a competitive disadvantage due to the strengthening euro and the weakening dollar.

Producers fear that few other markets will be able to replace any potential decline in American demand in the short term, so the decision could deal a serious blow to one of France’s most famous exports.