French Wine and Spirits Exports Decline for Third Year Amid Trade Tensions

French wine and spirits exports recorded their third consecutive annual decline in 2025, as trade tensions with the United States and China continued to weigh heavily on global demand.

French wine and spirits exports declined for the third straight year in 2025, with rising tariffs and geopolitical tensions significantly affecting key markets such as the United States and China. Industry group FEVS reported that exports fell by 8% in value to €14.3 billion and 3% in volume to 168 million cases compared to the previous year.

Since 2022, exports from the sector have dropped by 17% in value, causing wine and spirits to slip from France’s second-largest export category to third, behind aerospace and cosmetics. The industry has been particularly affected by escalating trade disputes, which have led to increased tariffs and reduced consumer demand in major markets.

FEVS Chairman Gabriel Picard noted that while new European Union trade deals with India and the Mercosur bloc could offer future growth opportunities, the outlook for 2026 remains uncertain without improved access to international markets.

Sales to the United States fell sharply, declining 21% to €3.0 billion, as higher tariffs and threats of duties of up to 200% dampened demand, especially in the second half of the year. Exports to China also dropped 20% to €767 million, largely due to anti-dumping duties on cognac and other wine-based spirits. Cognac exports, a flagship product for France, suffered a 15% decline in volume and a 24% drop in value, making it one of the hardest-hit segments.

Within Europe, exports remained relatively stable at €4.1 billion, with the UK showing resilience despite fiscal pressures. Meanwhile, emerging markets such as South Africa, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Australia showed strong growth, highlighting opportunities for diversification as traditional markets weakened.