California wine industry leaders warn that escalating tariffs on exports could devastate not only wineries but also hospitality workers, farmers, and communities. Sonoma County Vintners’ President Kirk Haney emphasized the far-reaching impact of trade disputes on consumers and small businesses.
Haney stated that Canada is a crucial export partner for the Sonoma and Napa wine regions, with family-owned vineyards accounting for 85% of production. The potential loss of Canadian sales would have a disproportionate effect on these small businesses and families.
British Columbia’s Premier David Eby has taken steps to distance his province from US wines by stopping liquor purchases from states led by Republican governors. Haney cautioned that tariffs affect both Democrats and Republicans, as well as farmers and winemakers across party lines.
The California wine industry hopes for a permanent agreement to keep its wines on Canadian shelves, prioritizing consumer needs and trade over politics.
Source: https://www.kqed.org/news/12025404/canada-tariffs-paused-california-wineries-fear-trade-dispute-would-be-crushing