Bowling Green Today

U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) have called on the Biden Administration to take immediate action to protect American jobs and remove retaliatory tariffs on bourbon and spirits. In a letter addressed to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai, the senators expressed their concern about the upcoming 50% tariff on American whiskey imports by the European Union (EU) starting January 1, 2024.

The retaliatory tariffs imposed by the EU have already caused significant financial losses to domestic spirits distillers and winemakers since 2018. To safeguard over 1.7 million jobs in production, distribution, and hospitality that rely on the industry, the senators are urging the Biden Administration to negotiate a permanent solution to remove the tariffs.

In their letter, Senators Paul and McConnell wrote, "We are deeply concerned that a lack of a permanent solution risks the re-imposition of tariffs. Spirits have had a significant cultural impact in our country, and currently have a profound impact on the U.S. economy." They emphasized the devastating impact of the retaliatory tariffs and highlighted the mutual benefits of finding a path forward.

The senators pointed out that the bourbon and spirits industries support over 35,000 jobs in Kentucky alone, contributing to more than $14 million in state economic activity. Additionally, U.S. distilled spirit exports reached $2.06 billion in 2022. However, the imposition of additional tariffs threatens the growth and stability of the industry.

The letter was also signed by Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Todd Young (R-IN), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Mark Warner (D-VA), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Katie Britt (R-AL), Mike Braun (R-IN), and Gary Peters (D-MI), demonstrating bipartisan support for the issue.

The senators' call for action comes as the Biden Administration faces pressure to protect American jobs and promote fair trade practices. The removal of retaliatory tariffs on American-made spirits and wines is crucial to safeguarding the industry and ensuring its continued contribution to the U.S. economy.

The full text of the letter can be found on Senator Rand Paul's official website.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.paul.senate.gov/sens-paul-mcconnell-urge-biden-administration-to-protect-american-jobs-remove-retaliatory-tariffs-on-bourbon-and-spirits/