EU Wine Trade in September-2024: Mixed Export Trends and Surging Imports

In September, the EU wine trade showcased a near-stable export performance with a slight 1% decline year-on-year (YoY) to 5.8 million hectoliters (mn HL), while imports surged by an impressive 45.9% to 6.06 mn HL.

The export landscape reflected growth in France and Italy, contrasted by a sharp decline in Spain. On the import side, the Netherlands led with record-breaking growth, while other markets showed mixed trends. This article examines these developments in detail, highlighting key drivers and their implications for the global wine market.

Export Performance

EU wine exports totaled 5.8 mn HL in September, a marginal YoY decline of 1%. The performance varied significantly across member states, reflecting diverse production and market dynamics.

1. France (FR):
   French exports rose by 4.8% YoY to 1.07 mn HL. The increase reflects sustained demand for French premium wines, particularly in North America and Asia. .
2. Spain (ES):
   Spain saw a steep decline of 20.4% YoY, exporting 1.49 mn HL. This drop underscores challenges in Spain's bulk wine segment, which faces stiff competition from lower-cost producers outside the EU. 
3. Italy (IT):
   Italy’s exports grew by 2.8% YoY to 1.86 mn HL, driven by continued global demand for sparkling wines like Prosecco and still wines from renowned regions such as Tuscany. 
4. Germany (DE):
   Germany exported 0.23 mn HL, a slight YoY decline of 0.8%. 
5. Portugal (PT):
   Portugal's exports declined marginally by 1.4% YoY to 0.26 mn HL. 
6. Other EU Countries:
   Smaller EU producers collectively exported 0.87 mn HL, a remarkable YoY increase of 37.7%. This surge highlights growing interest in lesser-known wine-producing regions, likely driven by consumer demand for unique and diverse wine offerings.

Import Performance

EU wine imports surged to 6.06 mn HL in September, up 45.9% YoY. The dramatic increase reflects rising demand for a wider range of wines and shifts in trade dynamics within and outside the EU.

1. Netherlands (NL):
   The Netherlands imported 2.65 mn HL, a staggering 438% YoY increase. This growth cements the Netherlands' position as a key entry point for wine distribution across Europe. The surge is attributed to increased re-export activities and heightened domestic demand.
2. Germany (DE):
   German imports declined by 13.4% YoY to 1.03 mn HL. The decrease aligns with growing interest in domestic wines and potential saturation in key market segments.
3. Belgium (BE):
   Belgium’s imports rose by 18.1% YoY to 0.33 mn HL, reflecting its evolving role as a significant consumer and distributor within the EU wine market.
4. France (FR):
   France imported 0.43 mn HL, a modest YoY decline of 2.5%. As a major wine producer, France relies less on imports, and the slight drop may reflect preferences for domestic wines.
5. Sweden (SE):
   Sweden imported 0.14 mn HL, a 17.1% YoY decline. This reduction may be linked to shifting preferences toward non-alcoholic beverages and craft alternatives.
6. Italy (IT):
   Italy’s imports dropped sharply by 53.1% YoY to 0.14 mn HL. The decline reflects the strong presence of domestic wines and limited reliance on imports to meet consumption needs.
7. Portugal (PT):
   Portugal imported 0.17 mn HL, down 6.9% YoY. Similar to Italy, Portugal's robust local production reduces its dependence on wine imports.
8. Denmark (DK):
   Denmark’s imports grew by 16.7% YoY to 0.15 mn HL. The increase reflects growing interest in diverse wine offerings, particularly from new world producers.
9. Poland (PL):
   Poland imported 0.14 mn HL, a YoY increase of 10.7%. This growth highlights the expanding wine culture in Poland, driven by rising disposable incomes and growing consumer interest in international wines.
10. Other EU Countries:
    Collectively, other EU nations imported 0.87 mn HL, a modest YoY increase of 4.1%.

Discussion

The wine trade data for September highlights significant contrasts between export and import performance. While exports faced challenges, particularly in Spain, imports experienced remarkable growth, driven by dynamic markets such as the Netherlands and Poland.

The export decline reflects structural issues, including competition from non-EU producers and shifts in global consumer preferences. Meanwhile, the import surge signals a growing appetite for diverse wine offerings within the EU, highlighting opportunities for new world producers and non-traditional regions.

These trends underscore the importance of strategic adaptation by EU wine producers, including diversification of export markets and innovation in product offerings.

Conclusion

September's wine trade data reveals evolving dynamics in the EU wine market. While exports declined slightly, imports surged to their highest levels, reflecting shifting preferences and market opportunities. Understanding these trends is essential for stakeholders in the global wine industry to navigate an increasingly complex landscape.

Keywords

EU wine exports, EU wine imports, global wine market, wine trade analytics, Netherlands wine imports, Spain wine exports, France wine trends, Poland wine growth.

Source: Eurostat