Australia leads wine trade group

Australia has assumed the role of chair of the World Wine Trade Group (WWTG) for 2024.

Established in 1998, the group has been instrumental in reducing trade barriers, ensuring regulatory harmony and fostering the growth of the global wine industry.

Australia’s leadership is shared between Australian Grape & Wine and the Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry, supported by the Australian Wine Research Institute and Wine Australia.

“This prestigious role places Australia at the forefront of international efforts to streamline wine trade, promoting mutual acceptance of winemaking practices and regulatory harmonisation,” says Lee McLean, chief executive of Australian Grape & Wine.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for Australia to showcase our expertise and leadership in trade and market access to key international wine partners.

“The WWTG plays a critical role in removing trade barriers and supporting the global wine sector, and we are excited to lead these efforts in 2024.”

Meetings are currently being held in Adelaide.

The week will include an International Wine Regulatory Forum, two days of WWTG meetings, and visits to Penfolds Magill Estate, the Australian Wine Research Institute (AWRI) and McLaren Vale.

The WWTG unites winemaking industries and governments to facilitate and enhance international wine trade.

Members include Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Georgia, New Zealand, South Africa, the United States and Uruguay.

Observers from China, India, Japan, and the UK will also participate in the meetings.

“This role is made possible by the close partnership between Australian Grape & Wine, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Wine Australia and the AWRI,” McLean says.

“The WWTG provides tangible benefits to Australian wine producers, including work to reduce or remove trade barriers, easier trade access through mutual acceptance agreements and simplified labelling requirements.

“Simplifying trade regulations helps reduce the compliance burden on our producers, saving time and costs when exporting to multiple markets.

“Chairing the WWTG gives Australia an opportunity to lead and shape international trade rules and establish strategies for the future which support the success of our wines in international markets.

“It’s about removing red tape and cost to create the right conditions for Australian wine to thrive in global markets.”