Marsala and Petrosino officials protest lack of viticulture funding

Local leaders in Marsala and Petrosino are protesting the Sicilian Regional Assembly's recent budget variations, which failed to include specific resources for the viticulture sector.

Marsala Mayor Andreana Patti and Agriculture Councilor Flavio Coppola expressed concern that the lack of funding could jeopardize the 2026 production season and impact the 2027 harvest. They emphasized that protecting the wine industry is vital for the region's economy and cultural identity.

Petrosino Mayor Giacomo Anastasi issued a sharper critique, noting that while nearly 80 million euros were allocated to agriculture, zero euros were designated for viticulture. Anastasi claimed that 19 million euros previously approved by the Budget Commission for social winery members disappeared during the final parliamentary process.