China is on the brink of a significant milestone in its wine industry development, as it is expected to become a full member of the International Organization of Vine and Wine (OIV) this November.
This move will grant China greater influence in shaping international standards and regulations governing wine production and consumption, aligning with its status as a major player in the global wine market.
The Application and Anticipated Membership
At a press conference in Ningxia on July 11, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs announced that it had formally submitted China's application to join the OIV through the Chinese Embassy in France. This application is currently under review by existing member countries. If approved, China will officially join as the 51st member at the OIV’s 100th anniversary conference in November.
Significance of OIV Membership
The OIV, established in 1924 in Paris, is the foremost intergovernmental organization for wine-producing countries. It exerts considerable influence on the global wine industry, setting international standards recognized by bodies such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the World Trade Organization (WTO). The organization addresses scientific, technical, and economic issues related to viticulture, wine production, storage, sale, and consumption, including grape juice and raisins. With over 50 member countries, including leading wine producers like France and Italy, the OIV’s decisions shape the global wine landscape.
China's Wine Industry: A Growing Giant
China's ascension to full OIV membership is significant given its substantial presence in the wine industry. The country ranks as the world’s ninth-largest wine consumer, with an annual consumption of 6.3 million hectoliters, and holds the third-largest area under vine, spanning 756,000 hectares, trailing only Spain and France. Membership will provide China access to a network of over 500 experts and facilitate collaboration with 50 member states, enhancing its capability to influence global wine policies and practices.
Impact on Chinese Wine Regions
Ningxia, a leading wine-producing region in China, has been at the forefront of advocating for the country’s OIV membership. Since becoming an OIV observer in 2012, Ningxia has actively participated in OIV conferences, promoting its Helan Mountain Eastern Foothills wine region. Chen Zijun, Deputy Secretary of the Party Working Committee of the Helan Mountain Eastern Foothills Wine Industry Park, emphasized the positive impact of OIV membership on China’s domestic wine industry. “China’s accession to the OIV is of great significance for the development of the global wine industry, as it will enhance the international status and recognition of Chinese wine.”
Ningxia's government plans to leverage this membership to foster regular exchanges and cooperation with global wine regions. Initiatives will include market connections, standard alignments, brand promotions, product exports, events, technology introductions, and talent cultivation. Furthermore, Ningxia aims to accelerate the Helan Mountain Eastern Foothills region’s membership in the Global Wine Tourism Organization (GWTO) and promote Yinchuan’s entry into the OIV International Network of Vine and Wine Cities.
Broader Implications
Joining the OIV will empower China to participate in critical decisions affecting the viticulture sector, enabling it to advocate for policies that align with its interests and conditions. This strategic move is expected to enhance China's influence in the global wine industry, providing a platform to showcase its advancements in research and new technologies.
The late Pau Roca, OIV’s director-general in 2023, was a strong proponent of China's inclusion, citing the country's potential and the value it could bring to the organization. He envisioned China playing a crucial role in shaping global wine trends, reflecting its growing significance in the international wine market.
Conclusion
China's impending full membership in the OIV marks a pivotal moment for its wine industry. It will not only boost the international profile of Chinese wine but also enable the country to play a more active role in the global wine community. As China steps into this influential position, the world can expect to see a more diverse and dynamic landscape in wine production and consumption standards, driven by one of the most rapidly developing wine markets globally.
Source: Vino-Joy