PATTERNS OF COMPARATIVE ADVANTAGES AND THEIR CHANGE FOR THE WINE INDUSTRY IN THE INTERNATIONAL SCENARIO

Abstract

The aim of this study is to analyse the specialization patterns of the main wine world actors, consumers and traders, so as to verify whether or not the patterns of comparative advantages for the trade of this countries have experienced significant changes over the period 2003-2012. The analysis carried out through the estimating of Lafay index reveals deep changes in the global wine market. In particular Italy, France, and Spain, though keeping an unquestioned importance in the international scenario, are experiencing a progressive loss of competitiveness. Differently, new countries have reinforced their presence in the international market, and among them Chile for the bottled wines, and South Africa, for bulk wines, pointing out the success of policy measures implemented in these new producing countries and for the progressive market orientation. In the outlined scenario, is clear that the only sector policies are unable to increase the competitiveness of producers in the world wine market, and an example are the EU countries. Is necessary to take into account the specificities, the differences, the sizes and the economic opportunities for each of the countries target, in order to undertake targeted actions and effective strategies.