WASHINGTON — The Natural Cork Council (NCC) announced its support today for the Trump administration’s signing of a trade agreement between the United States and the European Union that exempts natural cork products from additional tariffs.
The agreement, unveiled this week by the White House, preserves affordable access to natural cork closures—an essential component of America’s wine and spirits industry—and protects producers already facing mounting financial pressures.
Representatives from the NCC, working closely with the Portuguese Embassy in Washington, met with the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative and the Bureau of Industry and Security to advocate for cork’s inclusion in the deal. Both U.S. and EU negotiators were briefed on the crucial role cork plays in preserving wine and spirits quality and tradition.
“This outcome reflects our members’ long-standing commitment to supporting America’s wine and spirits producers,” the council Executive Director Patrick Spencer said in a statement. “By working together, we were able to avert another financial setback to an already challenged industry.”
The NCC collaborated with wine and spirits trade organizations throughout the negotiations to ensure cork remained a priority in tariff discussions. The council represents six leading Portugues cork producers:
- Amorim Cork
- Cork Supply USA
- Lafitte Cork and Capsule
- M.A. Silva USA
- Portocork America
- Scott Labs
The decision reinforces a centuries-old partnership between Portuguese cork producers and American wineries and distillers, safeguarding a sustainable closure choice and ensuring stability for winemakers and distillers nationwide.
Full details of the trade agreement are available in the official White House statement.
About the Natural Cork Council
The Natural Cork Council (NCC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating both wine consumers and industry professionals about the importance and benefits of cork as the most sustainable wine closure. Its mission includes ensuring the highest quality of natural cork while supporting sustainable forest management and preserving the biodiversity of Portugal’s cork oak forests. More information can be found at https://naturalcorkcouncil.org/.
