Top 10 countries with the highest wine import tariffs in 2025

As global wine trade continues to face significant barriers in the form of import tariffs, db examines the 10 highest wine import tariffs globally, including President Donald Trump's recent retaliatory measures. The post Top 10 countries with the highest wine import tariffs in 2025 appeared first on The Drinks Business.

Mar 20, 2025 - 08:26

Top 10 countries with the highest wine import tariffs in 2025

The global wine trade continues to face significant barriers in the form of import tariffs, often shaped by protectionist policies, trade disputes and geopolitical tensions. Aerial view of a container ship nearing port with the assistance of a tugboat, illustrative of wine trade tariffs.

The United States’ threatened 200% tariff on European wine, China’s now-lifted 218% duties on Australian wine and high tariffs in emerging markets such as India and Indonesia (OIV, 2024) are all key examples of how wine is often caught in global economic battles. The below examines the 10 highest wine import tariffs globally and covers both Most Favoured Nation (MFN) rates and retaliatory tariffs. Differences between bottled and bulk wine are also noted where applicable.

Russia – 20% on EU wines (potential 200% retaliation) (EU Commission, 2024)

Russia increased its tariff on wines from "unfriendly nations" (mainly the EU, US and UK) from 12.5% to 20% in 2023. This measure, in retaliation for Western sanctions, applies equally to bottled and bulk wine. Russian officials have threatened a 200% protective tariff on EU wines in response to continued sanctions, which would effectively eliminate European wine from the Russian market. Wine from “friendly” nations (e.g., Chile, Armenia, South Africa) continues to enter under lower or duty-free terms.

Brazil – 27% MFN tariff on all imported wine (WTO, 2024)

Brazil applies a 27% import duty under the Mercosur Common External Tariff, making it one of the highest base tariffs among major economies. This rate applies to both bottled and bulk wine, with no preferential treatment for large shipments. Additional state and federal taxes often push final retail prices far higher.

Morocco – 49% MFN tariff (Moroccan Trade Ministry, 2024)

Morocco imposes an approximate 49% MFN tariff on imported wine. While the European Union benefits from reduced rates due to a trade agreement, non-preferential nations face steep barriers. The tariff applies to all types of wine equally, without distinction between bottled and bulk.

Vietnam – 50% MFN tariff (phased reductions for trade partners) (Vietnam Ministry of Trade, 2024)

Vietnam applies a 50% MFN tariff on wine imports. However, it has gradually reduced tariffs for the EU, Australia and Chile through free trade agreements, with European wine set to enter duty-free by 2027. The 50% rate still applies to non-preferential wines, including those from the United States.

Indonesia – 90% MFN tariff on all wine categories (Indonesia Trade Authority, 2024)

Indonesia enforces a 90% import duty on all wines, whether bottled or bulk. Additional taxes, including excise duties and VAT, often make wine prohibitively expensive, with retail prices sometimes three to four times the import cost. The high tariff aligns with religious and social restrictions on alcohol.

India – 150% tariff on imported wines (Indian Ministry of Commerce, 2024)

India imposes a 150% import duty on all wines, one of the highest rates globally. Though free trade negotiations with the EU and UK are ongoing, no major reductions have been secured. Australia has managed to reduce duties for premium wines through a trade deal, but for most exporters, India remains one of the toughest wine markets due to state-level excise duties that further raise costs.

Iraq – 200% tariff on all alcohol imports (Iraqi Trade Authority, 2024)

Iraq levies a 200% import duty on all alcoholic beverages, including wine. This extreme tariff, in place since 2016, is one of the highest globally, effectively tripling the cost of imported wine. There are few exceptions, with only diplomatic imports and some tourism-sector imports avoiding the full tariff burden.

United States – Proposed 200% tariff on EU wine (unconfirmed) (the drinks business)

US President Donald Trump has proposed a 200% tariff on European wine in retaliation for EU tariffs on US goods. While this tariff has not been formally imposed, its potential impact would be catastrophic for EU wine exports, as the US remains a key market for European producers. If enforced, it would likely eliminate most European wine sales in the US.

Malaysia – 150–250% effective tax on wine (Malaysian Trade Ministry, 2024)

Malaysia employs a complex tax system where import duties, excise taxes, and VAT combine to impose an effective 150% to 250% tax on imported wine. Unlike other countries with simple ad valorem tariffs, Malaysia calculates duties based on alcohol content and volume, making it one of the most expensive markets for wine imports.

Egypt – 1,800% MFN tariff on still wine, 3,000% on sparkling wine (WTO, 2024)

Egypt imposes a staggering 1,800% tariff on still wine and 3,000% on sparkling wine, making it the highest import tariff in the world for wine. These tariffs effectively ban foreign wine imports, with only limited exemptions for the tourism sector where a 300% tariff plus VAT applies.