Sicilian viticulturists demand €25 million to combat industry crisis

Viticulturists in Sicily are calling for urgent financial intervention to address a deepening crisis in the wine sector. During a public assembly in Alcamo attended by approximately 300 producers from the Trapani region, the CIA Sicilia Occidentale demanded €25 million in direct aid to support Sicilian growers.

The sector is currently facing several compounding challenges, including reduced production levels, unsold stocks, and a significant drop in grape and wine prices. Additionally, rising operational costs for fuel and phytosanitary products are straining farm budgets, making upcoming tasks such as the pruning season increasingly difficult to manage.

Matteo Paladino, president of CIA Sicilia Occidentale, emphasized that the funds must be directed specifically to producers to ensure the survival of agricultural businesses. The organization has warned of potential protests at Palazzo dei Normanni, the seat of the Sicilian Regional Assembly, if concrete institutional responses are not provided.