Brussels, 11 September 2024 – EFOW, the European Federation of Origin Wines, the organisation representing Geographical Indication (GI) wines, presented its’ proposals for a more competitive and resilient wine sector during the first meeting of the High-Level Group on Wine Policy set up by the European Commission.

Wine appellations are a flagship success story for the European Union, with approximately 80% of the EU’s wine-growing areas dedicated to the production of GI wines. These wines are vital to the socioeconomic fabric of many EU regions, where viticulture is often the only viable agricultural activity. However, the wine sector is currently grappling with severe challenges that put its future at risk:

Declining Consumption: Over the past decade, wine consumption has steadily decreased, with predictions suggesting this trend will continue. While consumption becomes more occasional, some Member States’ public authorities have adopted a radical stance against all forms of alcohol consumption, including moderate consumption.
Changing Market Dynamics: There is a marked decline in red wine consumption and a drop in sales of entry-level still wines, exacerbated by fierce competition from other alcoholic beverages whose consumption remains steady.
Market Disruptions: Efforts to establish no/low alcohol wines have struggled, export markets are stagnating, and the risk of trade conflicts looms large.
Climate Challenges: Fluctuating climate conditions are causing significant disruptions to production capacities, adding further instability to the sector.

EFOW’s President, Mr. Riccardo Ricci Curbastro explains: “EFOW welcomes the Commissioner’s initiative to establish a High-Level Group to discuss the future of the wine sector. It is crucial, during this new legislative term and EC mandate, to foster a climate of dialogue and constructive engagement, avoiding the polarisation that has previously plagued discussions about the wine sector“.

During the meeting, EFOW’s President presented the members proposals (see presentation below) to build a resilient and competitive wine sector axed around five key pillars:

Targeted Market Support: Implementing market measures to support operators facing difficulties, with the introduction of appropriate conditionalities.
Vineyard Management: Strengthening the vineyard planting authorization regime to ensure optimal resource management and sustainable growth within the sector.
Market Diversification: Enhancing promotional tools and market diversification efforts to boost competitiveness and open new commercial opportunities, notably through an ambitious EU trade strategy.
Sustainability Promotion: Encouraging the implementation of sustainability measures, with a focus on environmental protection and social responsibility.
Accurate Labelling: Ensuring precise labelling to protect transparency and maintain consumer trust.

Mr. Ricci Curbastro, concludes: “EFOW’s objective is to advocate for a responsible economic model that aligns production with market demands, ensuring that GI wines continue to thrive and remunerate producers fairly. The EU wine sector stands at a crossroads, and strong support from European institutions is essential to secure its future, as well as the well-being of the regions and communities it supports”.