The JPP recently visited local grape farmers in Estreito de Câmara de Lobos, more specifically a ‘Tinta Negra’ farm, where they were told that the production of the ‘Tinta Negra’ grape is decreasing, “despite the increasing demand” from the region’s Wine Houses.
The main constraints for winegrowers are the increase in the cost of acquiring fertilizers and plant protection products, the shortage of labour, which is increasingly expensive, lack of business opportunities and the perceived lack of agricultural importance.” warns the JPP.
The party also calls it “completely ridiculous” that the prices paid remain practically the same as they were 30 years ago. Then a kilo of grapes was worth 205 escudos which today equates to €1.10.
The JPP says that grape growers feel “abandoned, enslaved and threaten to abandon production and their vineyards.
In view of this, the JPP will propose an increase in production support, so that the overall value paid for the ‘Tinta Negra’ grape is never less than 1.50 euros per kilogram. “In addition to the appreciation of the price paid for grapes, it is also important to invest in the construction of sound and beneficial agricultural networks. In this way, conditions are created for the sustainability of the Madeira Wine brand.”
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
