US President Donald Trump warned Monday of imposing a 200-percent tariff on French wines and champagnes after French President Emmanuel Macron declined an invitation to join his proposed “Board of Peace” aimed at addressing international disputes.
The escalation adds to a series of trade threats from Trump amid pushback against his unconventional diplomatic efforts, with the board requiring substantial financial commitments from participants.
Responding to queries about Macron’s stance, Trump dismissed the French leader’s relevance, stating: “Did he say that? Well, nobody wants him because he will be out of office very soon.”
He then outlined the potential penalty, adding: “I’ll put a 200 percent tariff on his wines and Champagnes, and he’ll join, but he doesn’t have to join.”
A source close to Macron confirmed France’s intention to pass on the offer for now, amid broader skepticism from global capitals.
Initially floated in September as part of a Gaza conflict resolution plan, the initiative has expanded to cover worldwide issues, with a draft charter circulated to around 60 nations demanding a $1 billion cash pledge for memberships exceeding three years
Trump has extended invites to figures including Russian President Vladimir Putin, while appointing former British premier Tony Blair to oversee Gaza-related aspects.
Diplomats have voiced concerns that the board could undermine United Nations mechanisms, prompting reserved responses from invited governments.
The tariff threat echoes past US-French trade frictions, potentially impacting a key export sector for France if enacted.
