Greek MEP Dimitris Tsiodras (PPE) has asked the European Commission to commit to maintaining a separate and ring-fenced financial envelope for the wine sector under the next multiannual financial framework (MFF) for 2028-2034, warning that a weakening of the specific support framework would harm a sector already battered by climate change and geopolitical turmoil.
In a written parliamentary question dated 4 June 2026, Tsiodras also urged the Commission to preserve a common European framework to avoid inequalities between member states, to maintain and strengthen the recent wine package, and to consider setting up a specific insurance mechanism against climate-related risks. The question comes as the Commission prepares its MFF proposal and a reform of the common agricultural policy (CAP), which together will determine the level and structure of EU support for wine growers and producers.
he wants the Commission to confirm that the wine sector will keep its dedicated budget line, rather than being merged into broader CAP funds where it could face competition from other agricultural sectors. He also seeks details on how the Commission plans to build on the wine package adopted in recent years, and whether a climate risk insurance tool is under consideration. The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks; its answer will signal whether it leans toward preserving the sector’s privileged status or toward a more integrated, less earmarked approach.
The wine sector is a major economic and social pillar in several EU countries, notably France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Greece. A loss of ring-fenced funding could force national authorities to co-finance support from shrinking CAP budgets, potentially reducing aid for smaller producers. Conversely, maintaining a dedicated envelope would protect the sector but limit the Commission’s flexibility to reallocate funds to other priorities such as innovation or environmental goals. The question also touches on the cleavage between sector-specific protection and cross-sectoral integration, with Tsiodras clearly advocating for the former.
Stakeholders most affected include EU wine producers, who face higher costs if support is diluted; national agricultural ministries, which would have to manage tighter budgets; EU consumers, who could see price increases if production drops; and the European Commission, which must balance sectoral demands with overall fiscal discipline. The answer will be closely watched by wine lobbies and member states as a first indication of the Commission’s stance ahead of the MFF negotiations.