China terminates investigation of EU wine imports

By Li Jiabao ( chinadaily.com.cn ) Updated: 2014-03-24 15:39:13

China' first wine cellar opens in Changli county

From vineyards of Bordeaux to Chinese cellars

In parallel to the investigation, a "Business to Business" dialogue between the EU wine industry, represented by the European Committee of Wine Companies, and the Chinese wine industry, represented by the Chinese Alcohol Drinks Association, was initiated in November 2013 in Beijing.

The MOU reached between CEEV and CADA during this dialogue consists of a commitment by the Chinese industry to withdraw its anti-subsidy and anti-dumping complaint against EU wine imports, and an agreement on technical assistance and cooperation between both parties for an initial period of 2 years.

Upon the withdrawal of the complaint and the subsequent termination of the investigation by the Chinese authorities, the EU wine industry will provide a number of technical assistance packages to China in areas such as winegrowing, including experimental vineyards and mechanization techniques; winemaking and quality control;, marketing approaches; wine tastings; and the Geographical Indications protection system.

This assistance will be provided through activities such as hosting study visits in Europe, seminars, and other training and internship activities. The Chinese wine industry will assist the EU industry to organize EU wine tastings in China, to improve wine knowledge among Chinese consumers and promote the appreciation of wine and its culture. Both parties will set up permanent information and communication exchanges, monitor the implementation of their cooperation, and collaborate at international level on advocacy activities aimed at improving market access conditions in third countries.

From 2007 through 2012, the Chinese wine market has experienced significant growth. EU wine exports to China amounted to 764 million euros in 2012, 71 percent of which were from France.