The new law on grapes and winemaking: a European integration step into the future

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyi signed the important European integration law No. 3928-IX, adopted on August 22, 2024, which will regulate the cultivation of grapes, the production of wine and other viticulture products. This law marks an important step in bringing national standards closer to European requirements, which will contribute to the development of the Ukrainian wine industry.

The Committee on Agrarian and Land Policy announced the signing of the law. The main goal of the new law is to harmonize Ukrainian legislation with European standards in the field of viticulture and winemaking. The law implements EU regulations related to methods of growing grapes, oenological practices, production of flavored wines, as well as protection of geographical indications of wine products.

According to the provisions of the law, it is envisaged to bring the terminology and classification of grape varieties into compliance with European standards. In addition, the law introduces uniform requirements for the production and circulation of wines and wine products with geographical indications, which will be an important step for the protection of local brands in the domestic and international markets.

An important innovation is the creation of a unified state information system called the "Vine-Grape Register", which will simplify product quality control at all stages of production — from growing grapes to the finished product. It will also help to ensure market transparency and strengthen the responsibility of manufacturers to comply with established norms.

The law also provides for the possibility of state support for the development of viticulture and winemaking, which will create additional jobs in rural areas. In addition to the economic effect, the new standards will help provide Ukrainians with safe and high-quality products manufactured according to international rules, which can positively affect the health of the population.

The law will enter into force on January 1, 2026, which gives enough time for manufacturers to adapt to the new requirements and prepare for the market entry of products that will meet high EU standards.