FRANCE: Ministers consider tax relief for vineyards

By just-drinks.com editorial team | 10 December 2008

French politicians are considering a proposal to exempt hard-pressed wine growers from property tax for the next eight years.

The proposal, mooted by politicians from the far left, was adopted by the French senate earlier this week, but the government has so far refused to approve the move.

"Because of the serious economic difficulties affecting the wine sector, it would be fair to align tax payments," said senator Jean-Michel Baylet, referring to the fact that other agricultural sectors, such as olive growing, are already exempt.

Current estimates from winegrowers put the tax at up to EUR10,000 per year, and perhaps more, depending on the size, value and regional location of the property.

Winemakers remain sceptical about the proposal's chances of success: "It would be good, but I very much doubt it will come from a government that is already increasing tax on wine," one winemaker told just-drinks.

Sectors: Wine