Canadian boycott hits US wine industry amid new tariffs
The U.S. wine industry faces a crisis as Canada boycotts American wine due to new tariffs.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — New tariffs are hitting American winemakers hard, and a major boycott from Canada could make the damage even worse.
The U.S. wine industry is facing a major crisis — and it’s not just because of changing tastes. Canada has now banned American wine in response to new U.S. tariffs.
It’s a huge blow. Canada was the top buyer of U.S. wine, with sales over $1 billion a year.
The boycott started in Ontario and quickly spread across the country, according to NBC News.
Wine industry leaders say even if tariffs are lifted, the damage to sales and trust may be permanent.
And it’s not just Canada.
Tariffs on imports from Europe and China are raising the cost of bottles, barrels, and corks — making it even harder for U.S. wineries to stay afloat.
After COVID, winery visits were already down. Now inflation, shipping costs, and competition from canned cocktails are adding even more pressure.
Wineries in places like Napa Valley and New York’s Finger Lakes say the summer tourist season could be devastating. Recovery — if it happens — could take years.