Hong Kong would gain French expertise and experience in wine related trade, tourism and education under an arrangement with France, the Chief Secretary, Henry Tang Ying-Yen said. The arrangement will take effect in the summer and is expected to held raise the city’s international profile in its bid to become the region’s wine hub. Speaking at the Vinexpo Asia-Pacific trade show opening, Henry Tang Ying-Yen said: “Under the arrangement, France would share with us its experience in promoting wine-related trade and tourism, as well as providing training on wine tasting”. (Source: South China Morning Post)

Mr Henry Tang, Ying-Sen, Chief Secretary for Administration, said at the Opening Ceremony of Vinexpo Asia-Pacific on Tuesday 25 May, that Hong Kong is the only duty free wine port, and told to the exhibitors and visitors “good business and every success” . (Source: Vinexpo)

An agreement is being signed by wine industry group and the South Australian Government aimed at curbing greenhouse gas emissions in wine production. It will be a significant way to address an overseas demand for products from environmentally-conscious winemakers. (Source: ABC News)

The Uk was the most important export market for Spanish wines in terms of value in 2007. Wines from quality designated regions were the most important category with close to €176 million worth of wine being shipped to the UK, according to Federacíon Española del Vino. This represents an increase of 15,9 % increase. (Source: Decanter.com)

New Zealand’s wine exports to China, although they are quite modest, will be helped by the agreement that provides for the removal of customs barriers between the two countries. This agreement should boost exports, which are constantly growing: an increase, in 2007, of 65% in volume and 45% in value (204,464 litres, €1.2 million). (Source: VSB)

Despite falling domestic consumption, increasing world demand has enabled Italian wines to take new international market share. Exports increased by 7.8% in 2007 compared to 6.5% growth in 2006. In value terms the difference between 2006 and 2007 amounted to 6.4%. Overall Italian wine turnover  reached €10 billion, while volumes produced amounted to around 48 million hectolitres. (Source: Revue Vinicole Internationale)

The European Union’s Council of Ministers formally approved the reform, which will enable to begin implementing policies to bring greater balance and more competitiveness to the wine market. The reform, which will take effect on 1 August,  provides for a fast restructuring of the wine sector in that it includes a voluntary, three-year grubbing-up scheme. “Instead of wasting money getting rid of unwanted surpluses, the reform will allow us to concentrate on taking on our competitors and winning back market share”, said Mariann Fischer Boel, commissioner for agriculture and rural development. (Source: Wine Business International)