In the first quarter of 2024, Germany imported approximately 3.08 million hectoliters (mn HL) of wine from both the European Union and overseas, according to the Eurostat data.
This represents a 4.4% decline compared to the same period in 2023.
The dynamics of Germany’s wine imports reveal a complex picture influenced by changing market preferences, production variations, and international trade relationships. Here's a detailed look at the main exporting countries and the trends observed.
Overall Import Trends
The total volume of wine imported by Germany in Q1-2024 stood at 3.08 mn HL, marking a 4.4% decrease from Q1-2023. This overall decline indicates a shift in either consumption patterns, economic factors, or availability of wine from traditional suppliers.
Key Exporting Countries
- Spain: 1.10 mn HL (+15.5% year-on-year)
- Italy: 0.95 mn HL (-16.6% y.o.y.)
- France: 0.41 mn HL (-8.2% y.o.y.)
- Austria: 0.11 mn HL (+8.3% y.o.y.)
- South Africa: 0.10 mn HL (-8.8% y.o.y.)
- Australia: 0.07 mn HL (-15.9% y.o.y.)
- Chile: 0.06 mn HL (-4.9% y.o.y.)
- Romania: 0.02 mn HL (+30% y.o.y.) - Romanian wine exports to Germany surged by 30%, indicating a rising interest in Eastern European wines.
Conclusion
Germany's wine import landscape in Q1-2024 demonstrates a complex interplay of growth and decline across different countries. Spain's rise as the leading exporter and the significant increases from Austria and Romania highlight changing preferences and market dynamics. Conversely, the declines from Italy, France, South Africa, Australia, and Chile suggest potential challenges and opportunities for these wine-exporting nations to recalibrate their strategies in the German market. As Germany remains a significant wine importer, understanding these trends is crucial for producers and exporters aiming to navigate this evolving market.
Source: Eurostat