Following an initial proposed imposition of “reciprocal” tariffs on countries that impose their own tariffs on U.S. goods, the Trump Administration announced a “pause” on April 9 to delay this action by 90 days. One of the major exceptions to this has been the tariff rate on all goods originating in China which has been revised to a minimum 145% rate. China has retaliated with a 125% tariff rate on all U.S. goods. As this “pause” continues, bilateral negotiations have been proceeding with many countries who would be subject to the higher tariff rates following the 90 day pause period with the intent of securing agreements before this time period ends.

Shortly after the announcement of this 90 day pause period, the Brewers Association reached out directly to both the White House and the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to highlight the concerns and priorities of the craft brewing industry. The Brewers Association is continuing to keep this dialogue open, as well as with key Members of Congress, and will continue to track the status of negotiations as they develop.