Can wine agents still make money in 2025? This guide will tell you the answer

SERVICE
TRACKING NO. 20250919 / GLOBAL Zhongshen Trade · 23+ Years of Expert Trade Agency
Trade Challenges?
No import/export license, customs delays,
or complex compliance issues.
Our Solution
One-stop full-chain agency: ensure efficient
clearance and fund security.
Cost OptimizationUrgent ClearanceGlobal ResourcesCompliant Rebates
The wine agency market holds great potential in 2025, with China's import volume recovering to 86% of pre-pandemic levels and growing demand for high-end wines and e-commerce sales. Importers must obtain import and export qualifications and stay updated on new EU regulatory standards. It is recommended to use the 3C model for product selection, prepare a budget of 800,000 to 1.2 million yuan, and establish a temperature-controlled logistics system. Additionally, they should leverage O2O2O channels to mitigate risks from policies and inventory management. Mediterranean-style wines and organic products are expected to see significant growth in the market.

Can wine agents still make money in 2025?This guide will tell you the answer

In 2025,I want to start a business in the wine industry.Is there still market space?

According to the latest report from the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV),China’s wine imports reached 320 million litres in 2024,an increase of 86% compared to pre-pandemic levels.In terms of market structure:

  • Demandforhigh-endpremiumwinesgrows12%annually.
  • E-commercechannelsharehasexceeded35%
  • Consumptiongrowthinsecond-andthird-tiercitiesoutpacesthatinfirst-tiercities

Suggested focus:Characteristic wines of the Mediterranean regionandCertified organic productsThese two types of products showed an increase of more than 20% in import volume year-on-year in the 2024 customs data.

What special qualifications are required to become a wine distributor?

Two-way services must simultaneously meet:

  • Requireddocumentsforimport
    • FoodDistributionLicense(mustincludealcoholsales)
    • Record-filingofImportedFoodConsignor
    • RegistrationnumberofoverseasmanufacturersinChina
  • Core Qualifications for Export
    • ExportFoodProductionEnterpriseRegistration
    • FreeSaleCertificate
    • Importlicenseforalcoholicbeveragesinthetargetcountry(e.g.TTBcertificationintheUnitedStates)

Please pay special attention to the new regulations that will be implemented starting from January 2025.New EU Wine Labeling Regulations,with requirements for nutritional labeling and allergen warnings.

How to Choose a Competitive Agency Brand?

It is recommended to adopt3C Evaluation Model:

  • Country(AdvantagesoftheProducingRegion):
    • Traditionalproducingregions(France,Italy,Spain)havesubstantialroomforpremiumpricing.
    • Emergingregions(SouthAfrica,Georgia)offerexcellentvalueformoney.
  • Channel (Channel Adaptation):
    • RecommendedwineselectionsfromMichelin-starredrestaurants
    • E-commerceBest-SellingProductPackagingDesign
  • Certificate (Certification System):
    • Organic/BiodynamicCertification
    • ChinaCustomsAEO-CertifiedSupplier

How much capital is required to start a wine agency?

Varies significantly depending on the trade method:

  • Generaltradeagency:
    • Minimumstart-upcapital:USD800,000–1,200,000
    • Includingcustomsduty(14%)andvalue-addedtax(13%)
  • Cross-border bonded warehouse model:
    • Thecostofthefirstordercanbekeptwithin300,000yuan.
    • Asecuritydepositandstoragefeesarerequired.

To cope with regulatory review20% working capitalRespond to exchange rate fluctuations (the fluctuation range of the euro against the RMB reached 12% in 2024).

What are the special logistics requirements for importing and exporting red wine?

Essential measuresFull-process temperature-controlled logistics system:

  • :
    • Reefercontainertemperaturesetto12–14°C
    • Avoidco-loadingwithodorouscargo
  • :
    • Prioritizenighttimeflightstominimizetemperaturedifferences.
    • Requireloadinginthecabin’sconstant-temperaturezone.

From 2025,multiple ports will implementAlcohol traceability QR code system,a traceability system must be configured in advance.

What is the most rational way to arrange online and offline channels?

It is recommended to adoptO2O2O model:

  • Onlinethree-terminal:
    • Platforms(TmallGlobal,JDWorldwide)
    • Private-domainmini-programmall
    • Live-streaminge-commercehub
  • Offline three-network:
    • PremiumSupermarketExperienceStore
    • Star-ratedhotellounge
    • BondedAreaExhibitionCenter

Please note that the implementation will take place in 2025.Adjustment of Cross-Border Retail Import Limits,the single-transaction limit is raised to 8,000 RMB.

What is the biggest risk point in becoming a wine distributor?

Four major risks must be prioritized for prevention:

  • Policyrisk:anti-dumpinginvestigation(refertothe2023Australianwinecase)
  • InventoryRisk:ControloftheTanninChangeCycle
  • Exchange-raterisk:EUR/USDdual-currencyhedge
  • IntellectualPropertyRisk:CopyrightDisputesoverWineLabels

It is recommended to take out insuranceSpecial Commodity Transportation InsuranceandProduct Quality Liability Insurance.

(Data source: General Administration of Customs Jan-Nov 2024 Statistical Bulletin,OIV 2024 Annual Report,China Alcoholic Drinks Association Survey Data)

You May Also Like
Haining Duckboard Import and Export Agency's Full-process SOP: Triple Breakthroughs in Compliance, Cost, and Efficiency
In-depth Compliance Guide for Agency Customs Declaration Import and Export Enterprises: Practical SOP from Process Optimization to Risk Evasion
Guide to Avoid Pitfalls When Hiring an Agent to Handle Import and Export Permits: Three Cost Traps and Compliance-Based Cost-Saving SOPs
Selection of Customs Declaration Agents for Electronic Import and Export: A Three-tier Capability Model + a Dual-Control List for Compliance Costs
In-depth Analysis of Import and Export Agency Business: A Practical Guide from Compliance to Cost Reduction (Including a List of Contract Traps to Avoid)
In-depth Analysis of Port Import and Export Agency Declaration Fees: 3 Types of Hidden Cost Traps That 90% of Enterprises Have Fallen Into
Looking for more efficient import & export solutions?
Contact our experts for compliance audits, precise quotes, and one-stop customs support.
Get Expert Solutions Now

Recent Comments (0) 0

Leave a Reply