Bulgaria exports wine to over 50 countries around the world and confidently steps onto the world wine scene,” stated Minister of Agriculture and Food, Dr. Georgi Tahov, at the opening of the 9th Global Conference of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), which is being held in Plovdiv.
He emphasized that the quality and character of Bulgarian wines are the true calling card of the country. “They are already recognized and sought after on international markets. We export to Western and Central Europe – mainly Poland, the Czech Republic, Sweden, England, Belgium, Italy, as well as to the eastern markets – China, Japan, Vietnam, South Korea, the USA,” Minister Tahov pointed out and emphasized that the theme of this year’s forum “The Art of Wine Tourism” emphasizes the importance of wine as part of our national cultural identity and economic development.
Minister Tahov added that from the time of the Thracians to the present day, wine has been an integral part of the history and spirit of the Bulgarians - a symbol of hospitality, tradition and celebration. Bulgaria has a great diversity of climate, terrain, and soils, which provide excellent conditions for viticulture and winemaking. " The area of vineyards in Bulgaria amounts to over 55,570 hectares, with 61% of them with wine varieties and protected designation of origin, as well as a protected geographical indication, In 2024, the country produced over 67.2 million liters of wine. There are 363 registered wine-producing facilities in Bulgaria, with new wineries opening each year, keeping the interest of consumers and enthusiasts of our traditional beverage alive and attracting new admirers. Of these, 80 wineries also develop wine tourism," Dr. Tahov added.
He noted that the Ministry of Agriculture and Food supports the sector through the Strategic Plan for the Development of Agriculture and Rural Areas 2023–2027, within which nearly 162.5 million leva are foreseen for investments, modernization and sustainability of the wine sector.
“Bulgaria offers a rich wine diversity – from international varieties to unique local ones such as Mavrud, Shiroka Melnika Loza, Rubin, Pamid, Sandanski and Varnenski Misket. Their revival creates a new look for the wine industry and broadens the horizons for wine tourism,” the Minister added. “The Ministry actively promotes the development of wine tourism through support for festivals, participation in international forums, the creation of wine routes and marketing initiatives,” the Minister of Agriculture also said.
Dr. Georgi Tahov was categorical that wine tourism is not just a trip, but an experience and an encounter with nature, culture and the people who create this magic. “Our ambition is for Bulgaria to establish itself as a destination where tourists not only taste wines, but also discover the spirit of an ancient land with a modern face,” he concluded.
The conference, organized by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) and the Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Bulgaria, with the support of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food, was attended by the Minister of Tourism Miroslav Borshosh, the Secretary-General of UN Tourism Zurab Pololikashvili, the Mayor of Plovdiv Kostadin Dimitrov, the Regional Governor of Plovdiv Region Prof. Dr. Hristina Yancheva and the Chairperson of the Foreign Policy Committee Yordanka Fandakova, as well as other official guests.
The forum brought together experts, representatives of countries, tourism organizations and wineries from around the world to discuss the future of wine tourism as a bridge between cultures, traditions and economies.