The Portuguese wine sector is facing one of its most challenging periods in recent history, according to a statement released by the National Association of Wine and Spirits Traders and Exporters (ANCEVE). The 2024 grape harvest was described as one of the most dramatic ever for Portugal’s wine industry. Many grape growers left their crops unharvested, either because they could not find buyers or because the prices offered would have resulted in significant financial losses after a year of investment in their vineyards.
This situation has led to a shift in the sector, with increased tension and less unity among growers, producers, traders, and exporters. Many are now considering selling their businesses or leaving the industry altogether, citing unsustainable deficits. The outlook for the 2025 harvest appears even more severe. Traditional buyers have already notified some growers that they will not be purchasing grapes this year, raising concerns about further economic hardship.
Compounding these difficulties is the current state of the Institute of Vine and Wine (IVV), a key institution for the wine sector. The IVV has been in a state of uncertainty and paralysis since its board was verbally dismissed in January. Six months later, this dismissal has yet to be formalized by government authorities. The sector was not consulted about the decision to remove the board or about any potential replacements, and the reasons behind the government’s move remain unclear.
At the start of this year, Portuguese wine exports were on an upward trend. However, international trade uncertainty—partly due to tariff policies associated with former U.S. President Donald Trump—combined with declining global wine consumption and anti-wine campaigns, has reversed this growth. These factors have contributed to a worsening crisis that many in the industry fear will deepen in the coming months.
In response to these challenges, ANCEVE, which marks its 50th anniversary this year, has requested an urgent meeting with Portugal’s Parliamentary Committee on Agriculture and Fisheries. The association aims to discuss the current state of the wine sector, the bleak prospects for the upcoming harvest, and necessary measures to address these issues.
The Portuguese wine industry is a significant part of the country’s economy and cultural identity. The ongoing crisis threatens not only individual businesses but also rural communities and export revenues. Industry leaders are calling for immediate action from policymakers to stabilize the sector and prevent further decline.