"Navigating US Tariffs: Impact on European Food and Drink Trade, Economy, and Future Relations"

Event Description  

One year after the publication of the U.S. reciprocal tariffs introduced by the Trump administration, and in light of the recent decision by the U.S. Supreme Court, the dynamics of transatlantic trade are once again at the center of political and economic debate. These developments make it particularly timely to reflect on recent trends and emerging challenges in EU–U.S. trade relations, especially in the agri-food sector. 

Food and beverages represent far more than simple commodities—they are woven into the fabric of Europe’s culture and daily life. However, in the context of trade negotiations, their broader economic, cultural, and social significance is often overshadowed by industrial concerns. To fully grasp the implications of recent U.S. tariffs on EU products, it is essential to look beyond trade statistics and consider the people at the heart of the food system: producers, consumers, and policymakers committed to maintaining quality, affordability, and sustainability. 

This European Food Forum debate will convene a diverse range of stakeholders from across the agri-food sector to examine the repercussions of these U.S. measures and identify constructive ways forward. The discussion will address both immediate challenges and longer-term strategies for strengthening resilience and fairness in transatlantic trade. 

Key topics for exploration include: 

• The economic and trade effects on iconic European food and drink products, 

• Consumer perspectives on rising food prices and access to markets, 

• Policy solutions to mitigate the impact and foster stronger cooperation with U.S. partners, 

• An overview of the latest developments in EU–U.S. trade discussions, with a particular focus on the agri-food sector. 

  
  

We invite you to join this timely conversation, contribute to the ongoing EU policy debate, and help shape a balanced, forward-looking approach to transatlantic trade in food and beverages. 

Draft Agenda: 

09:00 – 09:10 Opening Remarks by MEP Brando Benifei 

Moderator: Astrid Soriano Plancq, Managing Director, FTI Consulting 

09:10 – 09:35 Economic Impact & Sectoral Insights: Overview of affected sectors 

• Nicola TINELLI, Head of institutional affairs UIV Italian Wine 

• Julia LEFERMAN, Secretary General, The Brewers of Europe 

• Louis HINZEN, Senior Manager, Economic Affairs & Trade & Market Access Lead, FoodDrinkEurope 

Q&A 

Moderator: Maya Doneva, Managing Director, FTI Consulting 

09:35 – 10:25 Consumer & Trade Policy Perspectives 

• Thomas LIEFLAENDER, Deputy Head of Unit, DG TRADE, Unit D1 - USA and Canada 

• Miltiades KRIMZIS, Deputy Head of Unit, The Americas (AGRI/G2) 

• Olivia BROWN, Policy Officer, Euroconsumers 

• João ALBUQUERQUE, Director for Advocacy & Political Affairs, EuroCommerce 

• Edouard COPPIETERS, Senior Policy Adviser AmCham EU 

• Iliana AXIOTIADES, Secretary General, COCERAL 

Q&A

10:25 – 10:30 Closing Remarks by MEP Brando Benifei