Crisis of the Austrian wine industry: US tariffs threaten exports!

Crisis of the Austrian wine industry: US tariffs threaten exports!

The Austrian wine industry looks at the possible new tariffs that were threatened by the US government under President Donald Trump. As the vienna.at , the announcement of tariffs in the amount of wine from the EU could endanger one of the largest sales markets for Southeastern wine. Austria Wein Marketing GmbH (ÖWM) describes the new tariffs as "bitter blow" for the industry and emphasizes that even if these extreme tariffs are absent, significant effects on business relationships with US importers can be expected.

The United States is currently the second most important market for Austrian wines according to Germany, and in 2024 Austria exported a total of 3.3 million liters of wine worth 19.8 million euros to the USA. According to experts, a customs rate of 20 percent could significantly damage long -term business relationships and drive up prices in the United States, which could result in a decline in sales.

challenges for the wine industry

The uncertainties related to the US tariffs have tightened challenges in the industry. In addition to the new tariffs, the wine industry is facing existing problems. This includes consumption retention, changed drinking habits, as well as the effects of climate change and extreme weather conditions that have led to the slightest harvest amount in 2024.

The Viennese winemaker Fritz Wiinger, which exports in 45 countries, reports on a threat of total failure of the US business. In the meantime, US importers hope for a turn in the attitude of President Trump. Customs of 200 percent would be considered a "death blow" for many exporters because the United States is considered the largest wine importer in the world. The crowd of the crowd from Europe could benefit manufacturers from Latin America, South Africa and Australia.

reactions of the winemakers and market development

The reactions within the Austrian wine industry are different. Dorli Muhr, another winemaker, reports on uncertainties among US dealers and that orders are on "on hold". Günther Christandl by Leo Hillinger is also pessimistic and speaks of a "worst case scenario", should the logistics cost together with the tariffs increase significantly.

The discussion about tariffs and their effects is observed carefully in the entire industry. Also the Kurier reports on the worries of the winemakers and the need to quickly prepare for possible price increases in the USA. Kurt Gutenbrunner, operator of a restaurant in New York, continues to plan to offer Austrian wine, but is eagerly awaiting the developments that are decided in April.

How the Priplante could be reported in Europe. The overproduction and falling demand in the younger generation are expected to have an impact on pricing. The industry is faced with a crucial phase while negotiations on the US tariffs develop.