Breaking: US to Ban Canadian Alcohol Imports Effective September 29
After Canada’s retaliatory tariffs took effect September 8, Trump signed an executive order that goes beyond tariffs — it bans the import of Canadian wine, spirits, and beer into the U.S. entirely, effective September 29. Product already imported but not yet entered for consumption before that date stays subject to the existing 50% duty rather than the outright ban. This comes on top of a broader package: the administration is also banning most Canadian alcohol, some dairy, and motorcycles from entry, while removing Canadian goods from federal procurement schedules covering more than $50 billion in government purchases. The Toasts Not Tariffs Coalition, of which WSSA is an active member, is calling for a negotiated fix. If you import Canadian wine, spirits, or beer, this is the single most important item to plan around right now. Reach out if you want to talk through options before the 29th. Remember, your voice matters and please reach out to your congressional representatives to express any concerns. We would be happy to provide the TNT statement to utilize for talking points.
Additionally, confirmed through the annex to the White House proclamation modifying the scope of Canadian alcohol products subject to Section 338 duties, whiskies not elsewhere specified in containers holding over 4 liters (HTS 2208.30.6085) and liqueurs and cordials in containers holding over 4 liters (HTS 2208.70.0060) are removed from the existing 50 percent duty, effective September 15, 2026. This is separate from the alcohol import ban taking effect September 29, and these same bulk codes are not included in that ban’s product list either. If you are importing Canadian bulk whisky or liqueur confirm their HTS classification with your broker to ensure this treatment applies. We will provide updates as they become available or when CBP issues a CSMS message on implementation.
Strait of Hormuz: Continues to Escalate
Iran announced it struck 10 ships near the strait this week after the U.S. sank five Iranian oil tankers which was the largest wave of shipping attacks since the conflict began. At least one seafarer was killed, and another is missing. The strait remains effectively closed to commercial shipping. No resolution in sight; we continue to watch for fuel surcharges and routing changes.
Reminder: CBP Form 5106 Deadline is September 18
As a reminder, CBP can begin voiding importer of record numbers starting September 18 for inaccurate Form 5106 data, specifically physical address, email, and phone number, and these must reflect the actual importer, not your broker or agent. A voided number stops you from importing until it’s corrected. If you haven’t already checked your 5106 on file, do it this week.
Dutch Rail: Full Shutdown Happened September 9, Service Resuming
The nationwide rail strike hit as expected on September 9, halting nearly the entire Dutch rail network for 24 hours, including international links to Germany, Belgium, France, the UK, and Austria. Normal service was expected to resume September 10. Combined with the September 4 dock strike, it’s been a rough stretch for anything routing through the Netherlands — expect lingering delays this week as everything catches up.
German Ports: Union Pushing for a Better Offer
Following last week’s 48-hour strike, ver.di is calling for a third round of negotiations and an improved offer from port employers. No new offer has been made yet, so the wage gap (union wants 8.2% over 12 months, employers offering 5.1% over 18 months) remains unresolved. Watch for the possibility of further strikes if talks don’t move.
Panama Canal: Next Draft Cut Postponed
Some good news here — the Panama Canal Authority postponed the planned October 1 draft reduction to 47.5 feet, holding at the current 48.0-foot limit for now, based on improved Gatun Lake water level projections. Still worth checking with your carrier on any Panama-routed surcharges already in place, but this avoids a further tightening for the moment.
Rhine Water Levels: Still Low, Monitoring
Levels at Kaub remain very low as of this week, without the clean recovery we’d hoped for. No dramatic new developments, but conditions haven’t meaningfully improved either. Continue to plan for surcharges and delays on Rhine-dependent routes.LCL Services from France, Italy, and Spain/Portugal – European Heat Continues
Bi-monthly departures continue from each of these countries for your small shipments, offering a per case rate from point of pick up to the Alba Wine and Spirits warehouse in Edison, New Jersey. For the summer months, all containers will be temperature controlled, ensuring your cargo is protected from summer heat. Shipments from other European countries can be added into the mix, with pick-ups offered in most European countries. Please let us know if you need any further information!