Champagne producers in northeastern France are being urged to explore new markets following a threat by U.S. President Donald Trump to impose 30% tariffs on European Union (EU) exports.
The United States is currently the largest market for champagne, accounting for 10% of total exports by volume and 15% by value. Industry representatives warn that the proposed tariffs could significantly raise prices for American consumers and jeopardize jobs throughout the supply chain — both in France and the U.S.
“The repercussions for all family-run champagne producers will be severe. We stand to lose vital income from bottle sales, which in turn affects the quotas for grape harvesting,” said Stéphane Vignon, whose family has been crafting champagne in Verzenay since 1946.
With 70% of champagne exports concentrated in just five countries, Maxime Toubart, chairman of the Comité Champagne (Champagne Committee), emphasized the urgent need to diversify. He pointed to Brazil, Southeast Asia, and South Africa as promising alternative markets.
Toubart also highlighted France’s cognac industry — heavily dependent on exports to China and the U.S. — as a cautionary example of the risks of over-reliance on a few major buyers.
