With 6,500 exhibitors and over 63,500 visitors from around the world, Wine Paris 2026 broke its attendance record, confirming its status as a major event for the wine and spirits industry. In an uncertain international context, this edition demonstrated the sector’s ability to come together to analyze ongoing changes and chart new directions.

A total of 63,541 trade visitors from 169 countries, 51% of whom were international – a 20.75% increase – and 6,537 exhibitors from 63 countries (51% of whom were international), a 20% increase, attended the 2026 edition. « With this 2026 edition, Wine Paris reaffirms its central role for the global beverage industry. » « As a marketplace, a place of influence and a space for dialogue, the trade fair is establishing itself as a key event to support the transformations of the sector and prepare for its future, » says Nicolas Cuissard, the new Director of Wine Paris.

In an economic climate marked by unpredictable markets and trade tensions, Wine Paris has established itself more than ever as the place and time where global business opportunities converge. This business momentum translated into 25,958 pre-scheduled meetings via the business matching platform – a 28% increase – and a 20% rise in the number of top buyers in attendance. Over three days, 112,462 industry professionals mingled in the aisles of the show, illustrating the exceptional density of its ecosystem. The 2026 edition brought together more than 400 French, European, and international public officials. For the first time, the show was inaugurated by the President of the Republic, Emmanuel Macron, who lent significant institutional and media attention to the event. The show also welcomed former President François Hollande, two sitting French ministers, and four foreign ministers. Embassies from 37 countries were represented, including 21 ambassadors in attendance, alongside representatives from the European Commission (DG Trade and DG Agri) and members of parliament from various political groups. This turnout demonstrates that Wine Paris has become a key forum for dialogue between the wine industry, member states, and European institutions. Wine Paris is no longer simply a trading venue; it has become a strategic platform where the sector’s collective vision is being developed.

With a positive trade balance of €13.2 billion, wines and spirits confirm their position as France’s third-largest trade surplus sector, after aerospace and cosmetics. This result underscores the sector’s strategic importance to the trade balance and to regional economies. However, this momentum is slowing. In 2025, exports reached €14.3 billion, representing an 8% decline in value, according to the FEVS (French Federation of Wine and Spirits Exporters). Wine Paris fulfilled its role as a strategic platform.

The slowdowns observed in the United States and China are prompting operators to accelerate their efforts in other regions: India, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East are emerging as new growth drivers. Meanwhile, the diversification efforts driven by Be Spirits and Be No confirm the rise of the no/low-alcohol categories and the evolution of consumer habits, broadening the sector’s economic scope. The internationalization of the trade fair was evident with a strong presence of foreign producers: Italians, Portuguese, and Chileans, among others, came to reinforce the event’s global reach and boost trade. Rosé wines also took center stage. A true export driver, the category shone with iconic names like Château d’Esclans and Minuty – global benchmarks for premium rosé – as well as the notable presence of Kylie Minogue and her wine brand, illustrating globalized marketing and a confident lifestyle positioning. Rosé thus confirms its ability to combine image, volume, and value.

“In our seven years of existence, we have never had the opportunity to meet so many people from such diverse countries – such as Indonesia, Argentina, and Canada – in such a short period of time.” “This show functions as a true one-stop shop, allowing us to present our brand internationally and meet potential distributors from around the world in one place,” emphasizes Ian Thomson, founder of Thomson & Scott Naughty (UK).

“In a rapidly changing world, the wine industry needs more than ever venues that can combine commerce, influence, and collective reflection. Wine Paris has established itself as this global platform, where economic, institutional, and political players meet to shape the future of wines and spirits. The 2026 edition marks another decisive step in this trajectory,” concludes Rodolphe Lameyse, who announces his departure from the management of Vinexposium after this record-breaking edition.

The discussions continued in a convivial atmosphere, particularly around the Corsican restaurant La Paillote, which has become one of the show’s popular meeting places.

For three days, Wine Paris proved to be a pivotal moment for the industry: a time to strengthen connections, refine strategies, and move forward collectively in a rapidly evolving environment.

Upcoming events:
• Vinexpo Americas, Be Spirits & Be No, April 29-30, 2026
• Vinexpo Asia, Be Spirits & Be No, May 26-28, 2026
• Vinexpo Explorer – Bulk Wine Edition, June 8-10, 2026
• World Bulk Wine Exhibition, November 30-December 1, 2026

Wine Paris 2027 is already scheduled to bring together the industry professionals from February 15-17, 2027.

This article was published on February 20th, 2026.