Tariff Update:
EU
The tariff rollercoaster continues with daily developments. The EU negotiations are ongoing with both sides indicating a deal can be reached prior to the August 1 deadline. Rumors of a 15% level for EU goods imported into the USA were based on the caveat that the EU further opens up to USA businesses. As we know, any talk of tariff levels is still speculation until a deal is done. Speculation currently includes a potential exemption of the 15% on USA wine, spirits and other alcoholic beverages, but this remains speculation only at this time. WSSA and industry associations continue the pressure to achieve this goal and outreach to Congressional representatives and the administration continues. The EU has not gone forward with retaliatory tariff measures yet but has published a final list today of US goods that would be subject to additional duties if no agreement is reached. Spirits and Wine are on this list with a 30% tariff level to be imposed as of September 7 unless an amicable trade deal is reached. In a response to the steel and aluminum tariffs, the EU has published other items to be tariffed on August 7, including used wooden casks slated for a 25% tariff level. The EU document is 257 pages long with multiple annexes outlining the tariff numbers, duty rates and applicable dates. We are happy to provide a copy of the list should anyone be interested.
JAPAN
On July 23, President Trump announced that a deal was concluded with Japan, resulting in a 15% “reciprocal” tariff on all Japanese goods exported to the USA, including automobiles and car parts. Other countries are currently paying 25% on these same items. Japan has agreed on concessions on key products such as rice, automobiles, and airplanes. We will update further details on any impacts on exports of USA wine and spirits to Japan as we obtain full information on the trade deal.
SCOTLAND
President Trump arrives in Scotland today for a visit to two golf resorts that he owns. Besides golf, meetings are planned with First Minister John Swinney and leaders of the Scotch Whisky industry who will take the opportunity to pressure for a return to a zero-tariff agreement. After the visit to Scotland, Trump will also meet with British PM Starmer with the expectation that tariffs will also be on the table for discussion. Updates will follow after the conclusion of the visit. Travel around Aberdeenshire and Ayrshire will be restricted due to high security and road closures during Trump’s visit and expectations of sporadic protests.
Italy Rail and North Europe Port Update:
Significant rail construction in Italy this summer—including full closures of Genova Voltri and Genova Maritime Hubs from August 2–31—will disrupt intermodal services. Carriers are adding surcharges of €25–€40 per TEU, and delays are expected. Feeder vessels via Veneto may offer alternatives in some cases. Meanwhile, congestion at Rotterdam and Antwerp has slightly improved, with average berth waits down to two days and better transshipment from the UK and Ireland. However, schedule reliability remains low at around 60% and the majority of scheduled sailing dates are changed multiple times and port omissions remain a significant problem when planning bookings.
Albatrans LCL Reefer Service:
IBWSS: We look forward to seeing attendees at the upcoming IBWSS/international Bulk Wine and Spirits Show in San Francisco next week July 29 and 30. WSSA will be moderating a panel covering the nuts and bolts of shipping in flexitanks with a focus on understanding what to do when things go wrong! Join us on July 30 at 10am at the IBWSS conference area!