[Wines] Argentina Increases Exports To Usa

Argentina's wine exports to the US increased by nearly 30% last year, making it the only country to boast improved sales in 2008. According to figures released by the US Department of Commerce, Argentinian wine exports grew 29% in value and 13% in volume on 2007. In contrast, Australian exports to the US dropped by about 9% over the same period. Total wine imports by the US stagnated in 2008. James Forbes, UK Director of Wines of Argentina, said there was a similar pattern in the UK, which has seen 20 months of consecutive growth. He said Argentinian wines were gaining popularity in the premium on-trade and specialist wine sectors. The Argentinian wine market is predominantly domestic, with only 17% of wine produced being exported.