London wants to promote local winegrowers

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Britain wants to boost domestic wine production by lifting EU rules. “These reforms will give our winegrowers a huge boost,” said Agriculture Minister Therese Coffey. “They will boost the economy, create jobs and support an important part of our food and beverage industry.” The measures are expected to free up up to £180 million (201 million Swiss francs) for investment, Coffey said.

According to government information, restrictions that previously prevented the production of new blends are now being lifted. Bottlers are also allowed to convert imported wine into sparkling wine. Packaging regulations – such as sealing foil for certain sparkling wines – will also be lifted to allow cheaper alternatives.

“For too long our producers have been held back by cumbersome, outdated EU regulations,” said Coffey. “We give them the freedom they need to thrive.” The head of the Wine and Spirit Trade Association, Miles Beale, welcomed the innovation. “With the introduction of more flexibility, wine producers and importers will not be forced to do something different, but will be able to innovate,” said Beale.

British wine production has increased significantly in recent times. Chapel Down, one of the largest producers, announced that sales had increased by more than 50 percent in 2022 to a record 790,000 bottles. According to industry data, the acreage has grown by 70 percent in the past five years.

Mainly white and sparkling wines are produced. The growing areas are mainly in southern England, where the climate is mild due to the Gulf Stream. The main export countries are Norway, the US, Canada and Australia. However, compared to traditional wine countries such as Italy and France, Great Britain lags far behind.

The Conservative government has announced that it will lapse numerous laws from the EU period at the end of this year. Instead of the 4,000 laws initially announced, only about 600 should now be affected. Conservative hardliners accuse Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of “betraying” Brexit. However, experts emphasize that otherwise there would be gaps in labor law and consumer protection.

(SDA)

Source: Blick