The European Union (EU) wine trade experienced a moderate increase in exports in November, growing by 1.3% year-on-year (YoY) to 6.7 million hectoliters (mn HL).
This expansion, however, was accompanied by significant variations across major wine-exporting nations, with some markets witnessing positive growth while others faced declines. Italy, Spain, France, Portugal, and Germany—the key players in the EU wine sector—exhibited distinct export trends, influenced by shifts in demand across global markets. This study analyzes the export performance of these countries and explores the changing dynamics of EU wine trade.
1. Italy’s Wine Exports
Italy exported 2.07 mn HL, marking a marginal decrease of 0.3% YoY. The country’s performance varied significantly across key destinations:
- Germany): 0.51 mn HL (-9.5%)
- United States: 0.33 mn HL (+22.9%)
- Gabon: 0.28 mn HL (-2.3%)
- France: 0.08 mn HL (+2.2%)
- Netherlands: 0.07 mn HL (+5.8%)
Italy’s decline in exports to Germany contrasts with its strong growth in the U.S. market, indicating shifting consumption trends and potentially favorable trade conditions in North America.
2. Spain’s Wine Exports
Spain recorded a decline of 7.4%, with total exports reaching 1.78 mn HL. Key market trends include:
- Germany: 0.38 mn HL (-3.6%)
- France: 0.32 mn HL (-3.9%)
- Italy: 0.14 mn HL (-25.9%)
- Gabon: 0.14 mn HL (+0.6%)
- Portugal: 0.13 mn HL (+12.7%)
Spain's notable decline in exports to Italy reflects competitive pressures within the EU market, while moderate growth in Portugal suggests strengthened regional trade within the Iberian Peninsula.
3. France’s Wine Exports
France experienced a slight export contraction of 0.5% YoY, reaching 1.15 mn HL. Market performance varied across key destinations:
- Germany: 0.18 mn HL (+2.3%)
- Gabon: 0.15 mn HL (+5.9%)
- Belgium: 0.12 mn HL (-4.4%)
- United States: 0.11 mn HL (+14.5%)
- Netherlands: 0.09 mn HL (-1.8%)
Despite overall stagnation, France maintained growth in Germany and the U.S., underlining the importance of these mature markets.
4. Portugal’s Wine Exports
Portugal expanded its exports by 4.1% YoY to 0.31 mn HL. Growth was largely driven by strong performance in non-European markets:
- Angola: 0.03 mn HL (+46.2%)
- France: 0.03 mn HL (-21.8%)
- Gabon: 0.03 mn HL (+38.8%)
- Brazil: 0.02 mn HL (+3.7%)
- United States: 0.02 mn HL (+7.9%)
The robust increase in exports to Angola and Gabon highlights Portugal’s growing presence in African markets.
5. Germany’s Wine Exports
Germany’s total wine exports declined by 7.4% YoY, reaching 0.27 mn HL. Key market trends include:
- Netherlands: 0.06 mn HL (-19.6%)
- Poland: 0.03 mn HL (-6.9%)
- Czech Republic: 0.02 mn HL (+16.9%)
- Gabon: 0.02 mn HL (+56%)
- Austria: 0.02 mn HL (-30.7%)
The sharp decline in exports to Austria suggests increasing competition in Central Europe, whereas a significant rise in Gabon underlines diversification efforts towards emerging markets.
Conclusion
November’s wine trade figures reveal a complex landscape for EU exporters. While total exports grew slightly, market performance varied widely among member states and across key destinations. Strong growth in the U.S., African markets, and select intra-EU trade flows contrasts with declines in traditional European partners. These trends reflect evolving global demand patterns and potential shifts in consumer preferences and trade policies.