Brussels, 25 June 2025 – The European Committee of Wine Companies (CEEV) urges the European Commission to adopt the legal text of the EU-MERCOSUR trade agreement and to initiate the ratification process without delay.
“The global wine sector is facing critical times, and notably a long-term structural wine consumption decline, particularly in traditional markets. This agreement represents a real opportunity for the EU wine companies and can play a critical role in the diversification of our exports. To ensure our long-term economic sustainability we need to unlock new trade opportunities and attract new wine consumers, notably in Brazil” said Marzia Varvaglione, President of CEEV. “We need this deal, and it is time for the Commission to adopt the legal text” she added.
CEEV and its members strongly support the agreement, which will significantly improve access to MERCOSUR markets by reducing tariffs, streamlining import procedures, and safeguarding European Geographical Indications (GIs).
The deal brings clear benefits and poses no downside risks for EU wine producers. Fears that Mercosur wine will flood the EU market are unfounded and unrealistic.
“Brazil’s 27% duty is a major drag on our companies’ competitiveness and growth — one that will be eliminated under the new agreement. But this agreement represents more than just market access, it is also a geostrategic opportunity for us. With it, we can create a stable long-term partnership based on shared wine principles: a protected GI system and harmonised oenological practices.” said Ignacio Sánchez Recarte, Secretary General of CEEV. “We will continue to actively advocate for the ratification of this deal. We cannot miss this opportunity” he added.
CEEV calls on the European Commission to adopt the legal text of the EU-MERCOSUR agreement without delay and to move forward with the ratification process in the Council and European Parliament.
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NOTE TO EDITORS
- Comité Européen des Entreprises Vins (CEEV – www.ceev.eu) represents the wine companies in the industry and trade in the European Union: still wines, aromatised wines, sparkling wines, liqueur wines and other vine products. It brings together 25 national organisations and its members produce and market the vast majority of quality European wines, with and without a geographical indication, and account for over 90% of European wine exports.
- Media contact: Dr Ignacio Sánchez Recarte, CEEV Secretary General, ceev@ceev.eu, Mobile: +32 (0)476 88 36 75
- EU wine exports to Brazil accounted for more than €206 million in 2024, representing only 1% of total EU wine exports.