Trump's 20% Tariffs Threaten Irish Whiskey, Dairy Exports

The recent introduction of 20% tariffs by the Trump administration on imports from the EU is expected to significantly increase prices for Irish exports in the US, particularly whiskey and dairy products like Kerrygold butter. Industry groups, including the Irish Farmers' Association, have voiced concerns that these tariffs will make Irish goods less competitive compared to products from regions like New Zealand, which faces only a 10% tariff. The Irish Whiskey Association has warned that the tariffs could reverse decades of growth in the US market, which accounts for a substantial portion of Irish drinks exports. In response, producers from Greece, Spain, and Italy have also reported potential losses and are considering alternative markets as they brace for the financial impact. The European Dairy Association criticized the tariffs as unjustified, arguing that the targeted dairy products do not represent significant competition to US goods. Overall, the new tariffs are poised to disrupt international trade dynamics and consumer prices across various sectors.