French wine and spirits producers have raised concerns over new tax measures proposed in the French parliament. The debate, which is part of discussions on the 2026 Social Security budget, has led to strong reactions from industry leaders. The association Maison des Vins & Spiritueux, which represents the sector, spoke out on Thursday about what it calls “alarming” fiscal policies.
Jean-Pierre Cointreau, president of Maison des Vins & Spiritueux, addressed journalists in Paris. He said that the impact of the decisions made during this week’s parliamentary debates was not properly measured. Lawmakers in the National Assembly have put forward more than ten measures as part of the Social Security financing bill. These include setting a minimum price for alcohol, taxing alcohol advertising, and extending social security contributions to beverages with less than 18 percent alcohol by volume.
Cointreau said these budgetary measures are especially concerning during a period marked by crisis and uncertainty for the industry. The French wine and spirits sector has faced several challenges in recent years, including declining exports and changing consumer habits.
Industry representatives also worry about possible retaliation from the United States. On Tuesday, French lawmakers approved a measure to double the so-called “GAFAM tax,” which targets major American technology companies such as Google, Apple, Facebook, Amazon, and Microsoft. Gabriel Picard, president of the Federation of Wine and Spirits Exporters (FEVS), warned that France could become a target for U.S. trade reprisals. He said that if this happens, it will be the wine and spirits sector that suffers most.
Picard also noted that prospects for the second half of the year are already looking poor for French exporters. The sector fears that additional taxes and international tensions could further weaken its position in global markets.
The debate over these fiscal measures comes at a time when many French producers are struggling with rising costs and increased competition from abroad. Industry leaders argue that higher taxes and stricter regulations could make it even harder for them to compete internationally.
The proposed changes are still under discussion in parliament. Lawmakers are expected to continue debating the Social Security budget and related tax measures in the coming weeks. The wine and spirits sector is urging officials to reconsider policies they believe could harm one of France’s most important export industries.
Dining and Cooking