Cyprus has placed the reform of the European Union wine policy framework at the forefront of its agricultural priorities, following the formal adoption of the new regulation by the Council of the European Union on Monday, 23 February 2026. The updated rules are designed to support a competitive and resilient sector, while responding to market pressures and changing consumer expectations.
Maria Panayiotou, Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment of the Republic of Cyprus, underlined the significance of the decision, noting that the regulation was adopted less than a year after being proposed by the European Commission.
“By adopting the regulation on the wine sector today, less than a year after it was proposed by the Commission, the Council and the member states once again demonstrate that they listen carefully to farmers’ and the agricultural sector’s concerns and are ready to take effective action to address them,” she stated.
She added that member states first provided clear and targeted political guidance to the European Commission and then proceeded swiftly, in cooperation with the European Parliament, to adopt the measures so that the sector can benefit from them within the year.
Aligning production with market demand
Under the new framework, member states may support measures such as the grubbing up of excess vines to prevent oversupply and maintain market stability. The objective is to support innovation and adaptation to evolving market conditions.
The previous end date for the planting rights scheme has been removed and replaced with a 10 year revision period.
Strengthening climate resilience
The regulation allows member states to increase European Union support for climate related investments, including mitigation and adaptation measures. Support may cover up to 80 per cent of eligible costs, enabling a faster transition towards sustainable production practices.
Harmonising labelling across the European Union
Simplified and harmonised labelling rules will apply across the European Union, reducing administrative costs and facilitating cross border trade. Consumers will have clearer access to information through digital labels and pictograms.
Supporting rural economies and wine tourism
Wine producers may receive targeted support to develop wine tourism initiatives, contributing to economic growth in rural areas and strengthening local economies.
Clear definitions for alcohol free and reduced alcohol wines
The term “alcohol free” will apply to products containing below 0.5 per cent alcohol, while “0.0%” will refer to products below 0.05 per cent. For reduced alcohol wines, defined as those above 0.5 per cent but at least 30 per cent lower than the standard strength, the designation “reduced alcohol” will replace the previously suggested term “alcohol light”.
Export flexibility and plant disease measures
Wines intended for export will be exempt from the requirement to list ingredients and provide a nutrition declaration applicable to the internal European Union market, reducing administrative burdens. To address plant diseases such as flavescence dorée, the regulation provides additional support for monitoring, diagnostics, training and research to protect vineyards.
Encouraging innovation in aromatised wine products
The agreement clarifies that rosé wine may be used as a base for additional regional aromatised wine products. This expands opportunities for product development and supports producers responding to new consumer preferences.
Entry into force and sector significance
The regulation will enter into force 20 days after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. The European Union wine sector accounts for 60 per cent of global wine production and is the third largest European Union agrifood sector in export terms. It also contributes to addressing rural depopulation by creating stable employment and sustaining local economies. Eighty eight per cent of European Union vineyards are dedicated to geographical indications.
Source: Council of the European Union