Dear Readers,
As the year comes to a close, many in Brussels are preparing to head home for the holidays, reflecting on the past year and the challenges that lie ahead. December also marked the formal start of the new European Commission and the new EU mandate beginning for real – a pivotal moment for EU policymaking amidst a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
Three weeks ago, many of you joined us for the Spirits Summit 2024 under the heading of “Mission Possible: Sustainable Growth.” The context for the discussions is provided by a dire situation in which economic growth has, unfortunately, stalled in large parts of the Continent, leaving the EU trailing behind a number of economically far more dynamic regions in the world. Projections for 2025 suggest that EU growth may hover around a mere 1%, with the Eurozone slightly below that figure. These numbers are far away from what one would normally consider robust or sustainable growth.
In the next five years, EU policy-makers will need to adopt a growth mindset and take a balanced approach to policy-making —one that bolsters competitiveness and stimulates growth while navigating the complexities of a volatile global landscape. Achieving this will demand ongoing dialogue with all relevant stakeholders, including our sector.
As Europe’s spirits sector, we stand ready to contribute. In many respects, we are uniquely positioned to support sustainability, growth and competitiveness across the EU. Why?
While there is much to be proud of, we must ensure that EU trade policy and sustainability regulations work as enablers—not obstacles—to realizing our sector’s full potential. Importantly, avoiding the fallout from unrelated trade disputes, such as tariffs, is crucial to safeguarding the economic contributions of our sector and many others across the agri-food chain.
As we prepare for the challenges of the new mandate, let us focus on creating policies that empower industries to thrive, even in turbulent times. The right policy mix can transform barriers into opportunities, making sustainable growth an attainable vision for Europe by 2030.
In closing, I want to thank you for your continued help and support throughout the year. On behalf of the spirits sector, I wish you a joyous Christmas period and a prosperous New Year. Let’s work together to turn 2025 into a year of resilience, collaboration, and renewed, sustainable growth!
Warm regards,
Ulrich Adam*
* In his capacity as permanent representative of SPRL ADLOR Consulting
