The good progress of agricultural exports, as well as the dynamics of the primary sector, was mentioned at the opening of the Detrop and Oenos exhibitions held in Thessaloniki by the Minister of Agricultural Development and Food, Mr. Giorgos Georgantas.

Mr. Georgantas, referring to the export sector, noted that in a year of energy crisis, we had a measurable increase in exports of agricultural products by 17% and emphasized that in relation to processed products, they support a large share in the country’s growth.

Regarding the support of the primary sector, the Minister of Rural Development and Food emphasized that it is the responsibility of the central administration to create the infrastructure and incentives so that a new population of farmers and breeders have the means and tools to feel that they are operating and are part of of business activity.

The programs

The Minister noted that the current government has in progress the largest program of irrigation networks in the country in the last 60 years.

Mr. Georgantas spoke about the need for energy autonomy of livestock and agricultural holdings, the modernization of facilities and the modernization of manufacturing through several programs saying characteristically: “Just from the Recovery and Resilience Fund 550 million have been given through the Ministry of Rural Development  to these actions to strengthen manufacturing and the primary sector as a whole.”

The minister also referred to the largest program for young farmers in the country amounting to 525 million euros, but also the program for organic farming and livestock breeding, the largest ever, amounting to 705 million euros.

“Hellenization”

The Minister emphasized that the great danger for our products is illegal “hellenization” and called on the agricultural world to seek training in the issues of new technologies related to production.

He also invited Greek farmers to participate in large cooperative schemes so that they can become competitive and promote their products more easily.

Finally, he said he was optimistic about the future as he said “Greek products are quality products and Greek exports are doing well and can do even better and the state is present with the financial tools it will offer farmers”.

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