Portuguese MEP Sérgio Gonçalves (S&D) has called on the European Commission to revise Directive 92/83/EEC to allow reduced excise duties or exemptions for traditional sugar cane spirits produced on a small scale, arguing that current rules unfairly exclude such products from benefits reserved for fruit-based spirits. The move would directly impact small-scale producers in Madeira and other EU regions where sugar cane spirits are culturally and economically significant.
In a written parliamentary question dated 3 July 2026, Gonçalves noted that Directive 92/83/EEC permits reduced taxes or full exemptions for regional or traditional alcohol products, but only for those derived from fruits. This excludes spirits made from other local crops, such as sugar cane, which are historically produced on small plots in Madeira. The MEP asked whether the Portuguese government has already engaged with the Commission on this topic and whether the Commission would consider revising the directive to extend equivalent exemptions to spirits produced from agricultural raw materials other than fruits.
The question does not set specific numerical targets or deadlines but seeks a policy orientation toward broadening the scope of the directive. If the Commission signals openness to revision, it could lead to legislative changes that benefit small-scale producers across the EU, while potentially reducing tax revenues for member states. The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks, and its answer will indicate whether it views the current exclusion as a gap to be addressed or a deliberate policy choice.