The opening ceremony of Wine Paris & Vinexpo Paris 2024 was marked by addresses from industry and government leaders, including Rodolphe Lameyse, CEO of Vinexposium, the French Minister for Agriculture and Food Sovereignty, Marc Fesneau, and Thomas Cazenave, French Deputy Minister for Public Accounts. This event, a pivotal gathering for the global wine and spirits industry with a focus on enhancing French exports, has expanded this year to feature nearly 4,100 exhibitors from 48 countries, with the exhibition space notably increased, especially in the spirits section.

In the face of economic uncertainties and environmental challenges, the speeches underscored the industry’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. The decline in wine consumption and sales, particularly in Europe, was identified as a catalyst for sector-wide reflection and adaptation.

The anticipated return of France as the world’s leading wine producer by 2023 was highlighted, emphasising the sector’s considerable economic impact, including 440,000 jobs and a turnover of 92 billion euros. The presence of the ministers underscored the government’s recognition of the sector’s economic significance and its support for innovation, including climate change adaptation strategies for vine management, the development of lower-alcohol wines, and meeting changing consumer demands.

The importance of international trade and the collective effort required to navigate geo-economic risks were also prominent themes. Wine Paris & Vinexpo Paris was presented as an essential platform for the industry to unite, share insights, and address current challenges while aiming for a sustainable future. The collaborative tone of the opening remarks, featuring contributions from both Vinexposium’s CEO and government ministers, strengthened the event’s role as a vital forum for fostering innovation, sustainability, and quality within the wine and spirits industry.