Van der Merwe was elected on 18 October 2024 at the 22nd OIV General Assembly in Dijon for a three-year term.
She succeeds Professor Luigi Moio, who will now serve as Vice-President of the OIV. "It is a great honour and responsibility for me to take on this role. I am prepared to address the global challenges of the wine industry with dedication and to contribute to solutions through collaboration, innovation, and sustainable practices. I will also actively support the implementation of the OIV's newly adopted strategic plan," said van der Merwe after her election.
An economist and specialist in information technologies, van der Merwe is the Chief Executive Officer of South African Wine Industry Information and Systems (SAWIS). With nearly three decades of experience in the South African wine industry, she brings extensive knowledge and expertise to her new role. SAWIS highlighted the significance of her appointment, calling it "a major milestone for the South African wine industry."
OIV Celebrates 100 Years
The 45th World Congress of Vine and Wine took place from 14 to 18 October 2024 in Dijon to commemorate the OIV's 100th anniversary. The congress focused on the organisation's achievements, the importance of multilateral dialogue, and the challenges viticulture faces, particularly with climate change and shifting consumer habits.
Founded in 1924 by eight countries, the OIV now has 50 member states representing 75% of the world's vineyards. Its standards and practices significantly influence the global wine trade, promoting viticulture not only as an economic driver but also as a force for social and environmental sustainability. Ministers from various nations emphasised the sector’s role in job creation, regional identity, and innovative approaches to combat climate change.