January 22, 2019
An agreement has been struck to safeguard Australian wine exports to the United Kingdom after the country quits the European Union.
The UK was Australia’s top wine export market by volume – 239 million litres – during the past 12 months, and the third largest by value, worth $380 million.
Agriculture Minister David Littleproud said the deal had been done to maintain Australia’s strong trading relationship.
“The UK bought more Aussie wine than any other country last year – that’s a customer we want to look after,” Mr Littleproud said.
“This agreement will protect Australia’s geographical indicators so UK consumers know our wine is fair dinkum.
“It also outlines wine labelling rules and recognises Australia’s authorised wine-making practices including a simple approval process for new wine-making practices.
“The agreement will secure the benefits of the existing deal with the EU so they continue with the UK after leaving the union.
“We can grow our trade relationship with the UK under this agreement and put more money in Australian wine grower’s pockets.”
The Agreement between Australia and the European Community on Trade in Wine will continue to apply to wine trade between Australia and the EU.
