On Tuesday, December 9, the European Parliament hosted a high-level debate focused on the strategic opportunities that trade agreements between the European Union and countries in the Americas offer to the European wine and dairy sectors.
The event—jointly organized by the European Committee of Wine Companies (CEEV) and the European Dairy Association (EDA)—brought together Members of the European Parliament, EU Commissioners, industry leaders, and international trade partners. Its central focus: exploring how strengthened agreements with Mercosur and the United States can reinforce competitiveness, ensure sustainable development, and enhance long-term resilience for these critical European industries.
Transatlantic Trade: A Strategic Priority for European Agri-Food
Trade with the Americas continues to be one of the most important pillars for European agri-food exports. The United States remains the EU’s largest trading partner, holding a significant share of both wine and dairy trade exchanges. In 2024 alone:
- EU wine exports to the US reached EUR 4.9 billion
- EU dairy exports exceeded EUR 2 billion
These figures illustrate the exceptional importance of stable, predictable, and rules-based transatlantic trade. For many European producers—particularly small and medium-sized wineries and family-owned dairy businesses—these markets represent essential sources of growth, visibility, and long-term partnerships.
Mercosur: High-Potential Markets for European Premium Products
Beyond the United States, Mercosur countries—Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay—represent emerging and dynamic export destinations. Brazil has strengthened its position as a key market for European wine, with increasing demand for premium and sparkling labels. In parallel, both Brazil and Argentina are among the fastest-growing importers of high-quality European dairy products.
A central benefit of the EU–Mercosur agreement is the protection of geographical indications (GIs), which safeguard iconic European products against imitation. This ensures that renowned European wines and cheeses maintain their authenticity, value, and visibility in new markets.
Ratifying and fully implementing the agreements would provide:
- expanded market access
- legal protection for EU GIs
- a stable trade framework for producers
- support for the EU’s global leadership in premium food and beverages
These benefits are particularly relevant for rural regions, where wine and dairy production continue to play a vital economic and cultural role.
MEPs Highlight the Strategic Value of Transatlantic Trade
The political dimension of these agreements took center stage during the debate.
MEP Juan Ignacio Zoido opened the discussion by stressing the importance of keeping dialogue open and constructive:
“The Americas remain a key market for our agri-food products. Our focus must be on ensuring fair, stable, and future-oriented trade relations that support our wines and dairy products.”
MEP Dario Nardella reinforced the idea that the agreements go beyond tariff reductions:
“These partnerships are strategic tools that provide stability and create opportunities for sustainable growth. This is essential for our farmers, businesses, and rural areas.”
European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Christophe Hansen also highlighted the opportunities these agreements offer for modernizing the sector, boosting competitiveness, and strengthening rural communities.
During a roundtable discussion, Leopoldo Rubinacci, Deputy Director-General of DG TRADE, joined industry leaders in assessing the real-world impact of the agreements and the current geopolitical trade landscape.
Industry Perspectives: Securing Long-Term Opportunities
From the wine sector, Marzia Varvaglione, president of the CEEV, emphasized the long-term importance of these agreements:
“For European wines, these agreements are essential to securing our future. Mercosur offers untapped opportunities in growing markets. At the same time, a stable trade framework with the US is fundamental to maintaining Europe’s leadership in wine.”
Varvaglione highlighted that thousands of companies across Europe rely on consistent trade relations with the United States, making predictability crucial for future investments and innovation.
Representing the dairy sector, Alexander Anton, Secretary General of the EDA, stressed the need for open and reliable markets:
“Our sector needs predictable conditions. These agreements provide stability and competitiveness while supporting sustainability and rural communities. Strengthening access from North to South America allows the European dairy industry to grow globally.”
A Cultural Finale: Wine and Cheese Tasting at the European Parliament
The event concluded with a curated tasting of European wines and cheeses at the European Parliament in Brussels. This symbolic finale celebrated Europe's rich culinary heritage while reminding attendees of the importance of strong trade agreements for maintaining global competitiveness.
The tasting also served as a powerful demonstration of why wine and dairy remain flagship ambassadors of European culture, craftsmanship, and economic strength—products that depend on open markets and strategic trade partnerships to thrive.
Source: Vinetur