Mission Statement, Objectives, Implementation Techniques and Future Projects
Drafted Zurich, 29-30 June, 1998
Amended and finally agreed Mendoza, Argentina, 25-26 March, 1999
Further amended in Cape Town, South Africa, 2-3 July 2-3

MISSION STATEMENT

The Industry Section of the World Wine Trade Group is an informal association of national representatives of the wine industry that is interested in participating in networking and information sharing to provide better access to international wine markets. This group aims to create the opportunities for its industries to achieve growth in the wine markets and to increase responsible wine consumption.

OBJECTIVES

1. To examine, discuss and create opportunities for opening all wine markets to allow a free movement of goods by eliminating obstacles to trade, whereby members:

a. Agree that differences in wine-making practices should not be a barrier to trade.
b. Agree that all trade distorting subsidies should be eliminated, not just
production subsidies.
c. Agree to a reduction of tariffs as a means to develop the wine market.

2. To elicit and exchange views on international wine trade through the implementation of cooperation, communication and understanding among the members in the form of information sharing.

3. Create opportunities to further joint objectives through meetings, conferences or negotiations.

IMPLEMENTATION TECHNIQUES

1. Regular sharing of information that is international trade related. Refer to the above description of information sharing for further detail.

2. Participate in meetings to encourage government recommendations and actions that will further the objectives of the group. Whenever possible, coordinate meeting schedules with trade shows or other relevant events to minimize travel.

3. Facilitate interfaces between the World Wine Trade Group and governments as a means of achieving open wine markets.

4. Utilize existing international organizations to achieve objectives. The World Wine Trade Group will develop advanced positions for presentations at meetings when feasible. These organisations may include OIV, WTO, FIVS, FAO, WIPO, WCO, WHO, Codex, OECD and regional groups such as APEC, and FTAA.

5. Reaffirm the role of the WTO and its agreements including TRIPS, TBT, and SPS.

6. Maintain relations and cooperation with the Comité Vins of the European Union.

7. Ensure that the World Wine Trade Group remains flexible and avoids becoming
focused on single issues.

8. The World Wine Trade Group should always attempt to achieve consensus,
rather than seek a majority opinion.

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