The Netherlands: Dutch brewers rally against US beer import duties, seek resolution

The Nederlandse Brouwers has expressed significant concern over the recent announcement by the United States to impose a 20 per cent import duty on beer imports from the European Union, Caliber.az reported on April 5.

This new tariff, which includes beer in Annex 1 of the list of products subject to a 25 per cent duty on aluminum, is seen as detrimental to both sides, according to Meint Waterlander, director of the Nederlandse Brouwers.

Waterlander stressed that the introduction of these tariffs would create a "lose-lose" situation both socially and economically, particularly for Dutch brewers. He pointed out that the US is a key export market for the Netherlands, with 40 per cent of the country’s total beer exports being shipped across the Atlantic. As a result, the added duties could have significant ripple effects across various sectors, including farming, brewing, logistics, catering, and port services, all of which contribute to the Dutch beer export industry.

“The US announcement to impose 20 per cent import duties on all EU products will be a loser on both sides, socially and economically,” Waterlander remarked. “But the big concern for the Dutch Brewers Association is mainly that beer has been added to Annex 1, the list of derivative products subject to a 25 per cent duty on aluminium.”

In response to the announcement, the Nederlandse Brouwers are actively working to clarify which specific products are affected by the aluminum tariff. This is especially important since the Netherlands exports both bottled and aluminum-canned beer to the US. The uncertainty over which formats will be taxed and to what extent is a point of concern for Dutch producers who rely heavily on the American market.

Waterlander emphasized the importance of finding a solution to reduce beer duties, as it would be beneficial not only for beer producers but also for the wider economy. “Given that value creation involves farmers, brewery staff, catering, logistics, and port staff, it is crucial to reduce tensions and work towards a solution that reduces beer duties,” he explained. "This will benefit consumers, employees, and companies in both the EU and the US."

The Nederlandse Brouwers are now focusing its efforts on engaging with policymakers in both the Netherlands and the EU to seek a resolution that could minimize the impact of these tariffs, and ideally reduce or eliminate the beer-related duties altogether.

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