President Donald Trump threatened to impose 200% tariffs on French wines and champagnes after French President Emmanuel Macron reportedly declined to join his Gaza ‘Board of Peace’ initiative.
When reporters in Miami informed Trump about Macron’s stance, the president seemed surprised. Trump said, “Did he say that? Well, nobody wants him because he will be out of office very soon.”
He added that if France turns hostile and he would impose a 200% tariff on their wines and champagnes, and Macron would join. “But he doesn’t have to join,” Trump said.
The president also took a swipe at Macron by sharing a private message from the French leader, on Truth Social early Tuesday, in which Macron expressed his confusion over Trump’s Greenland ambitions.
Trump Expands ‘Board of Peace’ Push
Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ initiative, which aims to foster stability and peace in Israel-Gaza and conflict-affected areas, requires nations to make a minimum contribution of $1 billion to secure a permanent seat.
The initiative has been expanding its global footprint, with countries like Hungary and Vietnam accepting invitations to join. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have also been invited to join.
Europe Faces Fresh Tariff Risks
Trump’s move to leverage tariffs to push for international cooperation is in line with his previous trade tactics. In early 2025, the president had threatened a 200% tariff on French champagne and EU spirits in retaliation for the EU’s tariff on U.S. whiskey. U.S. remains the largest market for French liquor exports. According to data from consultancy firm Del Rey AWM, in the first half of 2025, France exported 628.2 million litres of wine worth Euros 5.53 billion ($6.49 billion), reported Vinteur in August.
Meanwhile, Goldman Sachs economist Giovanni Pierdomenico warned that Europe’s economic outlook could come under renewed pressure after President Trump threatened sweeping tariffs on imports from eight European countries unless talks begin over the proposed purchase of Greenland.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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