Answer

We have received a number of complaints from winemakers regarding the charge payable under 24/A. § of the Wine Law. Most of these complaints expressed the view that a uniform charge is a disproportionate burden for winemakers who produce cheaper wines. This is a reasonable argument, but linking the charge to the value of the wine is not a practical option for us. Apart from practical difficulties, there is also the fact that the price of a wine is always the result of bargaining between seller and buyer. We have originally proposed the introduction of two separate charges, one for control (HUF 3.20 per litre) and one for marketing which is: 8.10 Ft/litre for OEM wines, 4.00 Ft/litre for OFJ wines, 1.40 Ft/litre for FN wines. However, the National Council of Winemakers has refused to accept this proposal and proposed the introduction of: 10 Ft/litre for OEM wines, 5 Ft/litre for OFJ wines, 5 Ft/litre for FN wines. Our ministry has integrated this proposal into the new amendment of the Wine Law with minor changes. At present, we cannot provide a precise estimate of the funds which will be available for marketing purposes, but these are expected to be slightly less than in the past. EUR one million per year has been allocated for the National Envelope.