Greek Leader Looks to China for Much-Needed Trade
Prime Minister Antonis Samaras visits China this week, with some encouraging signs for Greek olive oil.
Prime Minister Antonis Samaras visits China this week, with some encouraging signs for Greek olive oil.
While the olives of the Kalamata variety are widely known, the PDO they carry is a cause of contention among producers in Greece.
An initiative in Greece intends to support the best ideas for starting a business in the agricultural sector.
The Greek olive oil industry could take a cue from Google's concept of "moonshot thinking" to solve the overwhelming problems it faces.
While the olive oil industry in Greece is shaky, it is time for pioneering thinking and concerted efforts.
Decisive steps must be taken by the new farmers to overcome the tough situations created by the financial crisis.
The financial crisis in Greece has led to some unfamiliar practices enabling citizens to acquire basic commodities.
The extended summer drought has lead some olive oil producing areas of Greece to lower oil production than usual, diminishing revenue in critical times.
Nevermind an increase in local olive oil production, Greek consumers are being forced to find cheaper alternatives.
Regions beyond Messinia would like to market table olives bearing the Kalamata appellation. The problem is that's not allowed.
Participants will examine the characteristics of different olive varieties, and evaluate techniques used in Italy, Spain and the U.S.
Besides price fluctuations and drought, olive oil farmers in Greece now have to cope with olive trees being stolen for firewood.
"Sometimes you just need good ideas instead of an awful lot of money." Terra Creta export manager Fotis Sousalis
According to the Greek Minister of Agriculture, the 432/2012 regulation of the EU will help Greek olive oil make a bigger impact and advertise its quality.
Visitors from 14 countries and 50 local farmers have signed up for the Terra Creta olive oil conference held in Hania, Crete, next week.