Wine trade

The UK is one of the smallest wine producers in Europe, but one of the largest wine importers in the world. As such, the UK has a thriving wine industry. Northern Ireland has many businesses involved in importing and selling wine.

The Wine and Spirits Trade Association is the trade body which represents the interests of wine trade businesses. The Food Standards Agency is responsible for ensuring wine regulations are enforced in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Local councils issue licences for trading in wine and check that trading standards legislation is not being broken. HM Revenue & Customs regulates import duty, excise and VAT.

This guide outlines the UK wine industry. It states the legal definition of wine, covers wine regulations and explains rules for importing and exporting wine.