The Comité Européen des Entreprises Vins (CEEV) is urging the swift ratification of the long-debated trade agreement between the EU and the Mercosur nations (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay). According to the CEEV, the deal plays a "critical role in ensuring the long-term economic sustainability of the European wine sector by unlocking new trade opportunities.” This push comes as the European wine industry faces the potential threat of high tariffs in the U.S. market, increasing its interest in exploring alternative markets.
"After 25 years of negotiations, the time has come to finalize and swiftly ratify this agreement. The initial provisions on wine market access and GI protection were already promising, but the latest revisions addressing environmental concerns bring additional benefits to both parties. In these challenging times, the agreement represents a vital opportunity for the European wine companies to access new markets and attract more wine consumers," said Mauricio González-Gordon, President of the CEEV.
The agreement, which aims to reduce tariffs and streamline trade regulations, is expected to "significantly boost" European wine exports, according to the CEEV.
Brazil as a Key Player in Mercosur Wine Trade Opportunities
Brazil is being highlighted as a prime example of the opportunities that the Mercosur agreement could unlock. Currently, European wines face import tariffs of up to 27% in this rapidly expanding market, with additional regulatory hurdles complicating access. Despite these challenges, the CEEV dismisses fears of South American wines overwhelming the European market.
“Concerns about a massive influx of non-EU wine are unfounded,” says Ignacio Sánchez Recarte, Secretary General of the CEEV. “We need this agreement, and we will actively advocate for its ratification.”
Germany and Brazil are among the deal's strongest advocates. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was initially scheduled to attend the Mercosur summit on December 5 in Montevideo, Uruguay, to finalize the agreement. However, a signed deal remains elusive, with opposition from countries like France, Poland, Austria, and the Netherlands. Critics argue the agreement could negatively impact European farmers, especially in the beef and poultry sectors, according to reports from German broadcaster ARD. VM
