EU Wine Exports to US Hit €4.9 Billion as Trade Talks Highlight Sector’s Global Stakes

A high-level debate took place today at the European Parliament in Brussels, focusing on the future of Europe’s wine and dairy sectors in relation to trade agreements with the Americas. The event brought together European Commissioner Christophe Hansen, members of the European Parliament, business leaders, and trade partners to discuss the implications of the EU–Mercosur and EU–US trade deals. The session was co-organized by the Comité Européen des Entreprises Vins (CEEV) and the European Dairy Association (EDA).

The United States remains the largest trading partner for the European Union, with wine and dairy products representing a significant portion of bilateral trade. In 2024, EU wine exports to the US reached €4.9 billion, while dairy exports surpassed €2 billion. These figures highlight the importance of maintaining open and predictable trade relations across the Atlantic. The Mercosur bloc, which includes Brazil and Argentina, is also seen as a key area for expansion. Both countries are among the fastest-growing markets for European wines and dairy products.

During the debate, participants discussed how ratifying and implementing these agreements could secure market access for European producers and create a stable framework for future growth. They emphasized that such agreements are essential for sustaining Europe’s global leadership in premium food and drink sectors and for supporting rural communities across member states.

MEP Juan Ignacio Zoido opened the session by stressing the need for constructive dialogue to ensure that trade relationships remain fair, stable, and forward-looking. He said that these markets are vital destinations for EU wine and dairy products and play a crucial role in supporting the long-term sustainability of European companies.

MEP Dario Nardella highlighted that these agreements go beyond tariffs. He described them as strategic tools that provide stability and create opportunities for sustainable growth, which is essential for farmers, businesses, and rural areas throughout Europe.

European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Christophe Hansen delivered a keynote address emphasizing the strategic importance of these agreements for agri-food companies and rural communities. DG TRADE Deputy Director-General Leopoldo Rubinacci joined sector leaders in a panel discussion to outline the impact of these agreements, current challenges, and opportunities.

Marzia Varvaglione, President of CEEV, spoke on behalf of the wine sector. She said that both agreements are essential to securing the future of European wines by creating new opportunities for growth in dynamic markets like Mercosur while maintaining a stable relationship with the United States. She stressed that these partnerships are about fostering long-term competitiveness and shared prosperity.

Alexander Anton, Secretary General of EDA, represented the dairy sector. He pointed out that open and predictable markets are crucial for European dairy producers. According to Anton, these agreements can secure long-term stability and competitiveness while supporting sustainability goals and rural communities. He added that expanding market access from North to South strengthens Europe’s global presence in dairy.

The event concluded with a wine and cheese tasting reception featuring European products. Organizers used this opportunity to reinforce their message that strong trade partnerships are key to ensuring Europe’s future competitiveness in global food markets. The gathering underscored ongoing efforts within EU institutions to balance economic interests with sustainability goals as they negotiate major trade deals with partners across the Americas.