The Federal Ministry of Agriculture (BMELH) supports the German wine industry with up to one million euros. The money is to flow into a national image and communication campaign. This is intended to “strengthen German wine as an ambassador for quality, diversity, and innovation,” according to a press release. In addition, the ministry aims to enhance the competitiveness of German winemakers with a new agricultural export strategy.
These commitments were made by Federal Minister of Agriculture Alois Rainer during a conversation with six top organizations of the German wine industry. Participants included the German Winegrowers’ Association (DWV), the German Wine Institute, the Federal Association of German Wineries (BVW), the Federal Association of Wine and Spirits International (BWSI), the German Raiffeisen Association (DRV), and the Association of German Sparkling Wine Cellars (VDS). Several members of the Bundestag also participated in the exchange.
The associations had repeatedly drawn attention to the crisis in the wine industry. The biggest problems are the significant decline in consumption, high production and personnel costs, increasing bureaucracy, a more restrictive alcohol policy, and growing trade restrictions. Minister Rainer has now promised to approach the federal states and advocate for quick, practical solutions at the EU level.
According to the ministry, initial relief for German wine producers is already being felt. Certain reporting obligations in viticulture have been eliminated, and the temporary employment of seasonal workers has been extended to 90 days. The reduction in electricity tax for agriculture and forestry also benefits the winemakers.
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