"After the signing of the extension of the Russian embargo on EU fruit and vegetables for another year, it is safe to say Greece has been driven out of the Russian market and must look ahead," said George Polihronakis, Special Adviser of the Association of Greek exporting companies and Handlers of Fruit, Vegetable and Juice, INCOFRUIT-HELLAS. "There are opportunities for growth without Russia. That's why we are looking for markets around the world for Greek products."
He affirms that "our country has already been given a chance to focus both on traditional and new markets, which should have positive effects in the long-term." Moreover, he stated that "the EU should review its policies in the agricultural sector to give preference to Community products."
For its part, the European Fruit and Vegetables Trade Association (EUCOFEL) sent a letter to the European Commission's Agriculture Commissioner, Phil Hogan, urging the European Commission to maintain the exceptional support measures for fruit and vegetables, approved to tackle the impact of the Russian ban, until the veto is lifted.
"The support measures have proven beneficial to ensure good price levels in the market and this is vital to restore market balance and tackle the serious disturbances already taking place," said EUCOFEL.
