“We have always supported these sectors. We have advocated within the European Union for strengthening the crisis reserve, which supports market shocks. I hope that in the next financial framework this reserve will reach one billion euros per year,” stated the official, during the Iberian sardine sustainability certification ceremony in Matosinhos.
José Manuel Fernandes expressed concern about potential 30% tariffs on European agri-food products exported to the United States, including wine and Portuguese preserves, calling for a “calm firmness” from the European Union in negotiations with Washington.
“We know the negotiation style of the President of the United States. Patience is needed, but also firmness. Of course, a 30% tariff would be unthinkable, but we cannot give up on this market,” he emphasized.
The minister recalled that Portugal maintains a positive balance exceeding 280 million euros in the trade balance with the United States in the agri-food, forestry, and fisheries sectors, with wine being one of the most significant sectors.
“Wine is a concern due to the global decline in consumption. But we are not giving up on the American market or on new markets such as India or Mercosul. We must consolidate existing ones and expand into new ones. It’s a requirement,” said José Manuel Fernandes.
Regarding the recent mobilization of wine producers, the official admitted there is “concern,” but rejected illusory solutions, preferring to work with structural measures.
“In the past, mistakes were made, like accepting wine from Spain at 15 cents and then distilling at 45. Global wine consumption is dropping. We have quality and can produce more. We want to protect the income of small producers,” he stated.
Nevertheless, the official regretted that in a recent 20-million-euro contest to support the promotion of Portuguese wine in international markets, applications totaled only 12 million.
“Unlike what the PS did in the previous government, we have unblocked funds for promotion. I personally handed our action plan to the European commissioner. We will formalize it and continue promoting our wines, but everyone must do their part,” warned José Manuel Fernandes.
