Top 10 countries with the highest wine import tariffs in 2025

Thursday, 27 March, 2025
The Drinks Business, James Bayley
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.

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.

1. 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.

2. 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.

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

Morocco imposes an approximate 49% MFN tariff on imported wine.

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