Absolut Vodka, Sweden’s largest food export and a globally recognized brand manufactured by The Absolut Company in Åhus (Skåne), faces substantial economic risks due to newly proposed US tariffs under President Donald Trump’s administration. Trump’s threats of imposing a punitive 200% tariff on EU products could significantly impact the vodka manufacturer, which annually exports approximately 27 million liters to the United States.
Billions at stake for Sweden’s largest vodka exporter
Exports to the US represent about 25% of Absolut Vodka’s total sales volume, according to financial reporting by EFN Ekonomikanalen. In 2024, The Absolut Company, a subsidiary of French conglomerate Pernod Ricard, recorded a turnover of 7.9 billion Swedish kronor (approximately €702 million). With billions potentially at risk, the looming tariffs could severely affect the company’s profitability and overall market position.
Skåne region closely monitoring the situation
The region of Skåne, which hosts Absolut’s main production facilities, is closely observing developments due to its economic dependence on the vodka industry. Over 10% of all wheat grown in Skåne is used by Absolut Vodka’s Åhus factory, highlighting the regional significance of the vodka production industry.
Paula Eriksson, spokesperson for The Absolut Company, declined to comment directly on the situation but noted via email to EFN: “We are naturally monitoring the developments closely as the US is an essential export market.”
Northern Europe consumer boycott against US products intensifies
As US-Europe tensions escalate under Trump’s renewed trade policies, consumer reactions in Northern Europe have grown increasingly hostile toward American imports. In Sweden alone, approximately 30% of consumers have joined a boycott against US products, a grassroots protest reflecting wider European frustration over Trump’s unpredictable tariff decisions.
