Türkiye has officially removed its 70% retaliatory tariff on US spirits, a move expected to boost American exports and strengthen bilateral trade.
The tariff was first imposed in 2018 in response to US steel and aluminum duties introduced by then-president Donald Trump. Initially set at 70%, Türkiye doubled the tariff to 140% in August 2018 before scaling it back to 70% in May 2019.
Impact on American Spirits Exports
According to the Distilled Spirits Council of the US (Discus):
- US spirits exports to Türkiye dropped nearly 36% since tariffs began.
- Exports fell from about US$17 million in 2018 to US$11 million in 2024.
- Türkiye ranks as the 27th largest market for US spirits.
The high tariffs significantly restricted market access for American distillers, limiting opportunities in one of the region’s growing markets.
Industry Reaction and Future Outlook
Discus president and CEO Chris Swonger welcomed the decision, praising the Trump administration’s role in securing the removal.
“Lifting this burdensome tariff significantly increases access to the Turkish market and unlocks valuable new export opportunities for US distillers,” Swonger said.
Industry leaders now urge the US government to push for zero-for-zero tariffs with key trade partners to ensure long-term growth for American spirits worldwide.
