Archive photo for illustration purposes only. (Photo: Unsplash)
It would appear that pres. Donald Trump’s new temporary trade tariff will apply to all South African wine exports to the USA.
“It is our interpretation that a temporary import tariff will apply from 24 February to 24 July 2026 on all South African wine exports entering the United States,” reads a notice from South Africa Wine, the national body for the wine industry.
However, it is not yet clear whether a 10% tariff or a 15% tariff will be levied on wine exports during the 150-day period.
The uncertainty comes after the US Supreme Court ruled last week that Trump’s so-called reciprocal tariffs on US exports are illegal and Trump has meanwhile used an alternative law to place a new temporary trade tariff of 10% on all countries.
However, Trump has since announced on social media that this tariff has been increased to 15%.
But according to South Africa Wine, no formal executive order confirming a 10% or 15% tariff has yet been published.
“This appears to be a temporary trade measure under specific US statutory authority that allows tariffs of up to 15% for up to 150 days to address trade imbalances. The situation remains fluid, and further legal or administrative adjustments are possible,” South Africa Wine says in its notice.
“The measure is temporary and may not last longer than until July 24, 2026 without approval from the US Congress.
“During this period, the temporary tariff will apply as the only additional duty, regardless of existing trade arrangements.”
The body advises all wine exporters to urgently engage with US importers, distributors and customs agents and review their shipment timing and customs entry strategies.
“Review pricing, contracts and inventory planning for the duration of the 150-day period.”