The island has about 15 cooperatives, each having approximately 1,500 members. “The cultivators are well-organised,” the Deputy Governor says. “The largest part of the production is organic.” In 2011, the island’s government decided to devote itself to three sectors to put the island on the map: (eco)tourism, culture and agriculture. The chosen strategy: experience. “We want to invite people to visit Crete, and to see and taste the products.”
Theano Vrentzou-Skordalaki, the Deputy Governor of the Primary Sector of Economy.
Export within and outside of Europe
Especially tomatoes, in various sizes and types, bell pepper, cucumbers, aubergine, courgette, kiwifruit, orange, lemon and grape are well-represented in the fresh produce cultivation on the island. At the start of the year, a cold front passed over the island. While this decimated harvests in other countries, such as Spain, the consequences were limited for the Cretan cultivators. “Most cultivators did not have anything planted yet, so they were not affected by it,” Theano explains. The cultivators plant for the coming season in the spring. The season lasts until about October.
“We export to many countries.” The island’s products can be found in countries including Germany, Italy, Ukraine, Russia, the Czech Republic, France and the UK. “Europe is a good sales market for the fresh vegetables. Additionally, we've experienced interest in our products increasing from the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.”
Sun for 250 days of the year
In its campaign, the government goes back to the rich history of the Greek island, and the old civilisation the inhabitants descend from. With that, the emphasis is on “hospitality, health and quality.” The Governor can naturally not be stopped when praising the island’s other products. “We have very good olive oil, traditional cheeses, wine and honey.” Besides the cultivation of fruit and vegetables, many herbs are also grown on the island. Most of the companies are small cultivators. “The small-scale companies are often led by a family. Because of their small scale, it is easier to spot problems, if any.”
The Southern European island has more than 250 days of sunshine during the year. That has a positive effect on disease pressure, according to Theano. “Almost all of the cultivators are organic. They just do not have to use many pesticides. The soil is also very fertile, which gives the products a distinctive flavour.”
For more information:
Hellenic Republic Region of Crete
Theano Vrentzou – Skordalaki
030 2813 400224
theanobs@gmail.com