Belgrade, 23 November 2024 (MIA) – The government aims at increasing wine production and export, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Economy Cvetan Tripunovski said in Belgrade, emphasizing that winemaking is a strategic key sector for the country’s economy.

The Minister was speaking to members of the media in Belgrade attending the Wine Vision by Open Balkan fair.

“Sales of Macedonian wine outside the country is rising with Macedonia ranking 22nd in the world according to wine production and 29th according to export. In 2023, foreign currency inflow from wine export was recorded over 57 million euros. Macedonian wines sell in over 40 countries, mostly in the Balkans,” stated Tripunovski. 

The Minister said that 80 wineries, including 68 small family wineries and 12 that are part of the Wines of Macedonia association are showcased in this year’s international wine and food fair in Belgrade, MIA reported.

The government, he added, will be committed to the winery sector, considered the second most important branch in the country. 

The third international fair for wine, food, brandy and tourism "Wine Vision by Open Balkan" in Belgrade, held November 22-24, includes 650 exhibitors from 37 countries. Visitors will also enjoy the presentation of the best restaurants and hotels in Serbia, North Macedonia and Albania, including a set of menus comprised of three dishes combined with wines selected by Serbia's best sommeliers. North Macedonia is represented at the fair by 80 wineries and distilleries, six food producers and a restaurant with three chefs.

The joint stand of the three national tourism organizations takes center stage during the fair, including the tourism offer and cultural heritage of all three Open Balkan countries.

Photo: MIA