Wine tariffs are a key sticking point in the negotiations for an India-European Union (EU) Free Trade Agreement (FTA), but Italy is already betting big on the Indian market to push its premium wines.
Italy’s flagship wine roadshow, Vinitaly, made a pitstop in New Delhi for the first time over the weekend, focusing on niche, luxury wines. It brought a host of exhibitors from the country’s top wine-producing regions, such as Apulia, Tuscany, Veneto, Campania and Abruzzo, to seek business opportunities and collaborations.
The India leg marks a strategic initiative aimed at promoting Italian wine culture and forging connections between Italian producers and India’s growing network of importers, distributors and consumers, said the organisers.
“As India’s premium wine segment continues to rise, Vinitaly is positioning itself to tap into this potential, particularly within the country’s upscale hospitality and tourism sectors,” a statement said.
Trade between India and the EU has grown by around 90% in the past decade, but the FTA talks have stalled over the years due to sharp differences between India and the 27-nation bloc. The EU wants India to reduce tariffs on cars, wine, whisky and some agricultural products.
The negotiations resumed in Brussels on Monday, after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and EU President Ursula von der Leyen set a year-end deadline to conclude the talks.
“Italy is the first wine producer in the world. But for Italy, wine is much more than a beverage or an economic factor. It is an integral part of Italian culture. Wine is a driver of conviviality, togetherness, good-taste and quality. Values and traits that we share with India. Wine can further foster contacts and exchanges between our peoples and countries,” the Ambassador of Italy to India, Antonio Bartoli, told The Indian Express on the sidelines of the event.
Despite concerns over high tariff rates that India applies on European wine, going up to 150%, Italy sees the Indian market, along with China, as a big window of opportunity for its signature wines.
Vinitaly is not just focused on increasing market presence but also on deepening awareness and appreciation for Italian wines as part of its long-term vision. It is planning to introduce advanced masterclasses for industry professionals and wine enthusiasts.
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Vinitaly will also promote Italy’s other premium food products. For instance, recognising the growing demand for high-quality extra virgin olive oil in India, Vinitaly, together with its organiser Veronafiere, is integrating Italy’s finest olive oils into its showcases.
“The event aligns with ongoing discussions surrounding a potential EU-India trade agreement, a deal that could significantly enhance market accessibility for Italian wines, unlocking greater opportunities for both producers and Indian consumers,” the organisers added.
