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Thousands of French Winegrowers Rally in Béziers, Pressing for Emergency Aid

Growers seek urgent relief following drought-hit harvests that left cash reserves depleted.

Overview

  • Between 4,000 and 7,000 producers marched largely peacefully in Béziers, with police reporting two officers slightly injured and one arrest.
  • Sector leaders called for immediate cash support, an EU-cleared vine uprooting plan of about 35,000 hectares, and stronger trade backing to reopen export outlets.
  • The prefect confirmed a delegation will meet the Agriculture Ministry on November 24, on the eve of the Sitevi industry fair where the minister is expected.
  • France’s 2025 wine output is estimated at 36.2 million hectolitres, matching 2024’s low level as heatwaves and drought cut yields in Occitanie, with some growers losing about half their crop.
  • Producers cited surging input costs near 30% and supermarket purchasing prices stuck for years, saying margins have collapsed after years of falling domestic consumption.