Alentejo Aims to Double Wine Exports by 2031 in New Push for Global Market Share

The Alentejo Regional Wine Commission (CVRA) and AICEP, Portugal’s Agency for Investment and Foreign Trade, have announced a new partnership aimed at doubling the region’s wine exports by 2031. The initiative, called “Exportação como Motor de Valor – CVRA & AICEP,” is set to launch on January 13 at the Alentejo Wine Route. The program targets both emerging and established wine producers in the Alentejo region, offering support regardless of their current level of experience in international markets.

The collaboration comes at a time when global competition in the wine sector is increasing. According to Paulo Rios de Oliveira, an administrator at AICEP, the program is designed to help Alentejo producers build a more structured and competitive international presence. He emphasized that internationalization requires strategic vision, deep market knowledge, and strong execution capabilities. The agency’s involvement aims to provide these resources and reinforce its commitment to supporting Portuguese wine producers abroad.

Luís Sequeira, president of the CVRA, highlighted that export growth is now a critical development axis for the Alentejo wine sector. He said that this partnership strengthens internationalization as a strategic pillar for the region, setting it on a clear path toward international expansion and economic growth.

The program will focus on continuous training and capacity building for participating companies. It will offer practical knowledge about exporting and accessing foreign markets, strategic analysis of global wine industry trends, and opportunities to learn from experienced exporters. Participants will also benefit from direct support through AICEP’s national and international networks.

This integrated approach is intended to boost the competitiveness of Alentejo wine companies and align their internationalization efforts with long-term goals outlined in the Strategic Plan 2026–2031. The plan aims to position Alentejo as one of the world’s leading wine regions by promoting not only its wines but also its gastronomy, olive oil, culture, and regional authenticity.

The partnership reflects a broader ambition to create sustainable value for both producers and the Portuguese economy. By combining resources and expertise from both organizations, the initiative seeks to help Alentejo wines gain greater recognition in key export markets while supporting local businesses in adapting to evolving global demands. The first phase of the program will begin with workshops and networking events at the Alentejo Wine Route headquarters, where producers can connect with experts and explore new strategies for reaching consumers worldwide.

As global demand for quality wines continues to grow, stakeholders in Portugal see this partnership as an important step toward ensuring that Alentejo remains competitive on the international stage. The program’s success will be measured by its ability to help local producers expand their reach, increase exports, and contribute to the region’s economic development over the next five years.