After a year of global uncertainty and local challenges, South African wine enters 2026 with renewed confidence, clearer priorities and a strong sense of collective purpose. According to South Africa Wine, the year ahead is all about turning strategy into action — just as the new harvest gets underway across the country’s wine regions.
Formed in 2023 to unite the wine and brandy sector under a single voice, South Africa Wine has spent its early years aligning the industry. With that groundwork now in place, 2026 marks a shift from planning to delivery.
A Challenging Year, A Clearer Path Forward
The past year tested the industry. Slower global sales, tariff pressures, logistics disruptions and climate uncertainty all took their toll. But industry leaders believe these challenges have also sharpened focus and strengthened collaboration.
The message for 2026 is one of readiness: a more coordinated industry, better information, and a shared commitment to protecting the long-term future of South African wine — from vineyards and cellars to restaurants, tourism and export markets.
Protecting Trust and Reputation
A key priority for the year ahead is safeguarding the industry’s “licence to trade” — ensuring that South African wine continues to operate in a fair, stable and trusted environment. This includes engagement on policy and regulation, supporting recovery in national logistics, and protecting access to international markets.
Equally important is the fight against illicit trade and the strengthening of compliance across the value chain. For consumers, this work helps protect quality, authenticity and trust in South African wine at home and abroad.
Better Information, Smarter Decisions
Behind the scenes, South Africa Wine is building a more unified and accessible industry data system, drawing together insights from SAWIS, Vinpro, WoSA and the Wine Certification Authority.
For the broader public, this means better forecasting, more transparency and a stronger ability to plan — all contributing to a healthier, more resilient industry that can adapt to change rather than react to it.
Driving Demand at Home and Abroad
Strong demand remains essential. A focused domestic market strategy is currently being finalised and is expected to be ready for decision-making by the end of April 2026. This work aims to reconnect South African wine with everyday lifestyle moments — food, culture, travel and social connection.
Wine tourism will also play a growing role, alongside renewed efforts to build the profile of South African brandy and reinforce the country’s refreshed brand positioning in key international markets.
People, Inclusion and the Future of Wine
At the heart of the industry’s future are people. South Africa Wine continues to invest in skills development, professional training and lifelong learning, while advancing transformation and inclusive growth.
Particular focus is being placed on supporting smaller producers and the meaningful inclusion of black-owned brands — ensuring that the benefits of growth are shared and that the industry reflects the diversity of the country it represents.
A Unified Industry, Moving Forward Together
With multi-year funding secured and broader participation encouraged, South Africa Wine believes the strength of the industry lies in working together. As 2026 unfolds, the emphasis is clear: practical action, stronger partnerships and measurable progress — all aimed at ensuring South African wine continues to thrive, locally and globally.
