EU Organic Day 2024: Greece’s Organic Farming Sector on the Rise

In light of EU Organic Day, celebrated annually on September 23, the Minister of Rural Development and Food, Konstantinos Tsiaras, expressed his strong support for organic products and farmers, while  Eurostat reports highlight Greece’s progress in organic farming.

Greece has witnessed a remarkable increase in the total area of agricultural land dedicated to organic production. According to Eurostat, the country reached 924,853 hectares in 2022, nearly doubling the 462,618 hectares recorded in 2012 — a 99.9% increase over the decade.

In the livestock sector, the number of animals registered as organic has reached 2.8 million. Of these, 67.3% are sheep, 19.6% are goats, 6.6% are chickens, followed by 6.4% cattle, and 0.1% pigs.

Producers have shown great interest in organic farming. A striking example is the increase in the number of organic farmers, which grew from 23,429 in 2012 to 60,993 in 2022.

In an interview with the Athens-Macedonian News Agency, Minister Tsiaras reiterated his support for organic products and farmers, describing organic production in agriculture, livestock, fish farming, and beekeeping as “a return to nature and purity” and an opportunity to further strengthen Greece’s primary production sector.

The Minister emphasized that the government is prioritizing organic production and implementing targeted policies to make Greece a leader in this sector. He also announced that the government is currently rolling out the largest program ever in Greece, worth €700 million, with an additional €280 million program to be launched soon, exclusively for new producers.

Tsiaras further highlighted the potential of high-value organic products that can be exported, generating additional income for producers and the country, while serving as “ambassadors for Greece around the world.” He stressed that Greece’s unique soil characteristics, climate, and biodiversity provide an excellent foundation for the country to become a leader in organic production in Europe. The Minister also underlined the importance of linking organic production with tourism to maximize its impact.

Launch of EU Organic Day and its 2024 Celebration

Launched on September 23, 2021, EU Organic Day aims to raise awareness of the importance of organic production and the sustainable transition of food systems. The day coincides with the autumnal equinox, symbolizing the balance between day and night, which, as EU Commissioner for Agriculture Janusz Wojciechowski noted, perfectly reflects the harmony between agriculture and the environment that organic production embodies.

This year’s celebration will take place on September 23 at Syntagma Square from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the significance of organic production and consumption, and enjoy an exhibition of organic products. A similar event will be held in Thessaloniki at Aristotelous Square on September 25 from 9 am to 3 pm.