An agreement has been struck overnight to safeguard Australian wine exports to the UK post-Brexit.
Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud said the deal was done to maintain Australia's strong trading relationship the UK.
"The UK bought more Aussie wine than any other country last year—that's a customer we want to look after," Minister Littleproud said.
"This agreement will protects Australia's geographical indicators so UK consumers know our wine is fair dinkum.
"It also outlines wine labelling rules and recognises Australia's authorised wine-making practices including a simple approval process for new wine-making practices.
"The agreement will secure the benefits of the existing deal with the EU so they continue with the UK after leaving the union.
"Last year, nearly a third of our wine exports went to the UK.
"We can grow our trade relationship with the UK under this agreement and put more money in Australian wine grower's pockets."
The Agreement between Australia and the European Community on Trade in Wine will continue to apply to wine trade between Australia and the EU.
Fast facts:
- In the 12 months to September 2018:
- The UK was Australia's top wine export market by volume – 239 million litres.
- The UK was Australia's third largest wine market by value worth $380 million.
- Worldwide Australian wine exports increased by 11% in value to $2.71 billion, and 5% in volume to 842 million litres.
