The 46th World Congress of Vine and Wine was officially launched. From 16 to 20 June in Chișinău, Republic of Moldova, the 2025 OIV Congress will be the global epicentre of research, international dialogue and innovation in the vine and wine sector.
The 46th OIV World Congress of Vine and Wine opened in the presence of the President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu, Moldovan Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry, Ludmila Catlabuga, Director of National Office of Vine and Wine (ONVV) Ștefan Iamandi, International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) President, Yvette van der Merwe, and OIV Director General, John Barker.
The Congress marks a historic milestone both for the host country and for the global vine and wine community. Held for the first time in Moldova, this Congress also inaugurates a new century of action for the OIV.
While the sector faces challenges—climate change, shifting consumption patterns, and economic pressures— these are also moments for reinvention. The 46th World Congress of Vine and Wine will emphasise technical innovation, consumer and society connection, and environmental responsibility as key levers for success.
President Sandu emphasised Moldova’s strong commitment to the development and international visibility of its wine sector, highlighting the renaissance of Moldovan indigenous grape varieties: “Local names like Feteasca Albă, Feteasca Neagră, Rara Neagră, Viorica, Floricica, are no longer hidden secrets—they are now a point of pride, winning awards and gaining international recognition”.
Historic first for Moldova & OIV’s new century
Under the theme “Shaping the Future of Vine and Wine: Embracing Resilience, Elevating Value, Fostering Innovation”, the congress welcomes experts, researchers, winegrowers, oenologists, producers, and policymakers from 51 Member Countries of the OIV and other countries involved in the research and the development of the vine and wine sector.
Held for the first time in the Republic of Moldova, this congress also inaugurates the OIV’s second century. Moldova is a country where “wine is not only a product but part of the national identity” as OIV President Yvette Van der Merwe noted, highlighting “excellence in wine is not confined to one region, one language or one culture, but exists across continents, climates and communities. Our strength as an international organisation lies in our diversity.”
Science and Cooperation at the Core
At a pivotal time for the sector, the OIV Director General John Barker addressed a powerful call for cooperation, science, and sustainability, promoting multilateral approaches to overcome shared challenges and exploit future opportunities of the vine and wine sector. “Cooperation and science are at the heart of the OIV’s activities for over a century. Today, more than ever, we must continue to be guided by these twin stars. Cooperation – because no single region or country can have all the answers. Science – because that is where we
will find the answers.” said John Barker.
New Global statistics insights shared
The Congress served as the platform for the OIV to unveil its latest global grape production data for 2024, updating the first data released at the Organisation’s April online press conference.
The data shows the strong impact of climate change in reducing global wine production, while economic and social factors have combined to reduce global consumption. Despite uncertainties in the global trading environment, wine exports remain steady in terms of both volume and value.
The table grape sector continues to grow in both production and consumption, driven by the growth of the China market as well as product innovation. Dried grape production remains stable. Consult the PPT presentation here
