"Trade and exports have been at the heart of Europe’s spirits sector for centuries. Often seen as iconic products and symbols of European culture, EU spirits remain a powerhouse for EU exports, supporting countless jobs in rural communities. Our success stems from a balance between preserving long-standing traditions and unmatched quality passed down through generations, and embracing innovation to adapt to evolving consumer trends.
However, this success should not be taken for granted. We face significant challenges, from the global economic slowdown impacting consumer purchasing power to growing geopolitical tensions and the increasing weaponization of trade. To overcome these challenges, we need an open trade policy that fosters competitiveness, resilience, and growth.
In practice, we call on the EU to prioritise three key areas. First, the EU must foster a stable and open trade environment for EU spirits by protecting them from unrelated trade disputes, prioritising multilateral solutions, and strengthening public-private cooperation. Second, the EU should deepen regulatory cooperation with third countries to remove and prevent trade barriers. Finally, the EU must expand market access and support diversification by concluding ambitious trade agreements with key growth regions, backed by economic diplomacy and promotional activities.
This will provide us with more options, greater resilience, and the ability to continue innovating and investing in sustainable practices. This is our vision for an open trade policy agenda that promotes competitiveness, security, and sustainability—one that allows us to keep contributing to the EU agri-food success story, the EU’s trade balance, and the cohesion and flourishing of rural communities."
Crédit photo: ©Julia Brechler
IAN MCLERNON - President of spiritsEUROPE - CEO of Rémy Cointreau EMEA, Asia Pacific (ex Greater China) and Global Travel Retail.
Open Trade Declaration: 43 European business associations have rallied behind a call for a bold & #OpenTrade policy to keep Europe competitive, prosperous & resilient (October 2024)
