GLAMOČIĆ: WINE EXPORTS HIT EUR 22.6 MILLION

BELGRADE, OCTOBER 9 /SRNA/ - The value of Serbian wine exports reached EUR 22.6 million last year, while growing production and increasing recognition of Serbian wines confirm the sector's potential for further development, Serbian Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management Dragan Glamočić said.

Glamočić said around 52,600 agricultural holdings in Serbia were engaged in grape production across a total of 18,200 hectares of vineyards, while 531 wine producers were registered in the country's wine registry.

"This year, the Ministry once again included support measures for viticulture and winemaking in its regular annual plan. Incentives are intended for establishing new vineyards, building and reconstructing wineries, purchasing modern equipment and improving production," Glamočić said at the opening of the 63rd Oplenac Harvest Festival in Topola.

He pointed out the Oplenac Harvest Festival had brought together producers from the area for more than six decades and helped preserve the tradition for which Topola and Šumadija are known.

"Topola is not only a place with a glorious past, but also one of great potential for Serbia's future. On these slopes, in the vineyards and orchards of Šumadija, products are being made that have become recognized far beyond the borders of our country," Glamočić said.