Alcohol at the Center of Global Trade Negotiations in 2025

Seattle, Washington Jan 25, 2026 (EMWNews.com) – Shanleigh Thomson, founder of Shan Ferments and respected voice in the beverage industry, has published a new article examining how alcoholic beverages are being used as strategic tools in global trade disputes between the United States and major partners including the European Union, China, and Canada.

Drawing on well-sourced data and historical context, Thomson’s article explores how products like bourbon, wine, and beer have become central to tariff negotiations. It highlights the political and economic motivations behind this trend and the real-world consequences for producers, supply chains, and consumers.

The article presents a thorough, nonpartisan look at trade-related policies affecting the alcohol industry in 2025, aiming to inform and engage professionals in beverage, agriculture, and global trade sectors.

Key Insights Include:

How iconic beverages are strategically chosen for tariffs to apply pressure on political leaders.

The ways these measures disrupt supply chains and alter global market access for producers.

A historical look at how alcohol has played a recurring role in past trade disputes.

Shanleigh Thomson is widely recognized for her work in bridging the gap between beverage producers and consumers, blending technical knowledge with accessible storytelling. With years of experience in hop sales, brewing education, and industry communications, Thomson continues to build dialogue around the intersection of economics, culture, science and fermentation.

Read the Article Here: 

https://www.shanferments.com/blog-resources/alcohol-trade-2025

About Shan Ferments:

Shan Ferments is an educational and media platform exploring stories in fermentation, trade, and community through articles and content. Founded by Shanleigh Thomson, the site brings an industry-insider perspective to the conversations shaping today’s beverage culture.