The EU internal market with its free movement of goods is vital for European winegrowers. Regulations on labelling, production standards, and the common currency ensure harmonisation that facilitates the sale of wines across EU borders. This not only allows to meet the demand of European consumers but also guarantees fair competition among producers from different Member States.
Administrative simplification is also essential for small businesses looking to expand their presence in the European market. These mechanisms help Independent Winegrowers to overcome administrative obstacles and maximise their sales potential within the single market. Directly concerned with the issue of excise duties, which still hinder the commercialisation of wines within the single market, CEVI advocates for the creation of a “one-stop shop” for the payment of excise duties, which would significantly improve distance selling.
© Daniela Jeremijevic – Vignerons Indépendants de France
Internal Market and Third Countries
The fluidity of the internal market and the development of external trade are two essential elements for the dynamism of the European wine sector. With wine consumption declining in Europe but growing strongly worldwide, it is crucial for Independent Winegrowers’ businesses to turn to new markets to ensure their development. For the European Confederation of Independent Winegrowers (CEVI), this means navigating between the opportunities offered by the European single market and the challenges of international trade.
EU single market
© Daniela Jeremijevic – Vignerons Indépendants de France
International development
For EU winegrowers, growth also lies in third-country markets. The implementation and development of free trade agreements between the EU and third countries are crucial to facilitate access to new markets and meet the growing global demand for European wines. An ambitious promotion policy in third countries is equally necessary.
Furthermore, it is essential to remove trade barriers that hinder the access of European wines to these markets. This includes reducing custom duties, simplifying import regulations, and resolving trade disputes (notably the Airbus-Boeing dispute) that can affect wine exports. An ambitious EU trade policy allows European wines to position themselves favourably in emerging markets while increasing their overall competitiveness.
© Daniela Jeremijevic – Vignerons Indépendants de France
CEVI’s priorities
CEVI emphasises the importance of ensuring the economic sustainability of small winegrowing enterprises in the face of environmental, economic, and social challenges. The ability of Independent Winegrowers to access new markets is crucial for maintaining their profitability and competitiveness. Diversifying export markets is also vital to mitigate economic risks associated with fluctuations in domestic demand. By promoting free movement within the single market and supporting a proactive international trade policy, the EU must enable European wines to continue to thrive on the global stage.
© Daniela Jeremijevic – Vignerons Indépendants de France
Lastly, given the difficulties faced by the sector, the European Union must allow its Member States to support economic operators such as Independent Winegrowers when the economic situation requires it. To be reactive and effective, Member States need access to a “ready-to-use” toolbox that includes measures for managing production potential and volumes. Besides, the creation of a safety net as an EU emergency fund would protect winegrowers from economic losses due to unforeseen events, such as trade conflicts or energy crises.
