The possibilities of supporting cotton producers as well as the prospects of the sector were examined in a meeting held by the Minister of Rural Development and Food, Kostas Tsiaras with the Vamvakos Interprofessional Organization.

Among other things, the difficult price situation was acknowledged, but it was confirmed that the industry remains active and able to react with coordinated initiatives.

The ginning companies recognized the particularly high quality of this year’s produced cotton, pointing out the scope for price improvement in terms of quantities that meet the required quality standards.

According to a statement by the FSA, Mr. Tsiaras noted that the actions to support cotton are part of a wider policy plan in the context of the New Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), noting that “the effort is to maximize the amount available and to form a supportive framework for the producer and the processing chain. We are open to cooperation with all the sector’s bodies and, when we form our proposals, it is a given that you will also be asked, because your knowledge is valuable”.

At the same time, Measure 23 was discussed, which is an important support package for producers, as well as the upcoming environmental measure concerning the carbon footprint and aimed at the sustainability of cotton cultivation and the improvement of the producer’s income.

Finally, the representatives of the ginning companies expressed, for their part, the intention to support the producers, emphasizing at the same time the willingness to cooperate with the HYPAAT to promote actions that strengthen the income and the position of Greek cotton in the market.