EU Spirits Exports Decline Amid Trade Disruptions
European spirits exports fell by 6% in 2025 to €8.26 billion, driven largely by declining sales in the US and China due to trade tensions. Export revenue from the US dropped 9% to €2.5 billion after Trump-era tariffs on EU goods were increased to 15%. In China, exports fell 15% to €608 million as Beijing imposed duties citing product dumping concerns, particularly affecting brandy and Cognac. The UK also saw a decline in spirits imports from the EU by 4%, reaching €858 million. SpiritsEurope highlighted broader economic headwinds and geopolitical tensions impacting consumer confidence across key markets. However, emerging markets like India and South Africa showed promise with export growth of 10% to €91 million and 30% to €272 million respectively. The EU-India free-trade agreement is expected to reduce tariffs on spirits in the coming year, offering potential for future market expansion. SpiritsEurope remains optimistic despite challenges but acknowledges that new markets cannot immediately replace traditional ones.
Topics: EU exports spirits industry tariffs US-China trade tensions