"Effective marketing can achieve the proper positioning of Bulgarian wines in the market," said the Minister of Agriculture and Food, Plamen Abrovsky, during a meeting with representatives of the viticulture and wine-making sector at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food. The main challenges facing producers and the possibilities for their support were discussed. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Yanislav Yanchev also took part in the meeting.
During the conversation, industry representatives raised the issues of providing support under the de minimis scheme, granting compensations under the so-called "Ukrainian aid"*, strengthening control over the import of grapes and wine, and the market realization of Bulgarian products.
Minister Abrovsky stated that the Ministry is prepared to implement the de minimis scheme if the necessary funds are secured in the budget. "The Ministry is currently undergoing a budget procedure. Within two weeks, we will have a clearer picture of our financial capabilities, and then we will be able to assess what support can be provided to individual sectors in this complex economic situation," he emphasized.
Regarding the "Ukrainian aid," the minister reminded that European rules allow it to be granted solely as compensation for fuel and fertilizer costs. He announced that the Ministry's ambition is to send a notification to the European Commission later this month, so that the scheme can be approved in early September and payments can begin in early October. Minister Abrovsky explained that discussions are currently underway to calculate the support based on technological charts, in compliance with the European Commission's requirements.
The representatives of the viticulture and wine-making sector also raised the issue of unfair competition from imported products, which they claim are offered at dumping prices. They insisted on more effective market control, as well as enhanced monitoring of wine quality, including through inspections in retail networks. For his part, Deputy Minister Yanchev also pointed out the need for stricter control over the import of foreign wines, as well as wine and table grapes into the country. The possibilities for strengthening this control were also discussed.
The meeting further addressed the need for more active participation of branch organizations in shaping sectoral policies and more work that is effective by specialized structures within the sector, as well as a better exchange of information on market trends and new technologies.
In conclusion, Minister Abrovsky assured the viticulture and wine-making sector that the Ministry of Agriculture and Food will continue to support them. "We will maintain an active dialogue with branch organizations to find sustainable solutions that will increase the competitiveness and development of Bulgarian viticulture and wine-making," he concluded.