G. Georgantas: German investments in the primary sector ‘lever’ of growth for the country

The extremely important role of the Hellenic-German Chamber in the strengthening of German investments in Greece and the increase of exports of Greek products to Germany, was pointed out by the Minister of Rural Development and Food, Mr. George Georgantas at the 8th Hellenic-German Food Forum in Thessaloniki. value of the primary sector in maintaining food adequacy.

“The connection with the big German companies and the business communication bridges it builds, is a fundamental element for the construction of our future and our development planning. This connection becomes more coherent and valuable with the simultaneous transfer of know-how performed through the actions and the programs of the Chamber “, stressed Mr. Georgantas, who noted that the successive crises highlighted and strengthened the value of the primary sector in our daily lives. He explained that this is because the primary sector “is linked to food adequacy but also to the optimization of the quality of life that we all seek in times of normalcy”.

Exports of fresh fruit and vegetables to Germany are on the rise. This market, which is demanding, as Mr. Georgantas said, creates challenges and opportunities.

The balance of fruits and vegetables with Germany shows a positive sign for Greece over time. It is indicative that in 2021 the exports of fruits, vegetables and their preparations to Germany amounted to 403,354,548 euros against imports of 57,493,309 euros. The fact that cherries, kiwis, strawberries, oranges, apricots and watermelons are at the forefront of German consumer preferences shows, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, the trend towards a healthier diet, a trend that has intensified since pandemic. He noted that the fact that Greek gastronomy is widely known to the German consumer public contributes to this, as it is inextricably linked to the cultural heritage of hundreds of thousands of Greek immigrants living in Germany, but also the initiatives of the Chamber, SEVE and others.

“Our trade relationship with Germany, in terms of fruits and vegetables, has a lot of room for improvement, mainly because our products ensure two important elements: Nutritional value and healthy nutrition. It is up to us all to do “Our ties are stronger and our cooperation is closer”, stressed Mr. Georgantas.

Finally, Mr. Georgantas pointed out that the government of Kyriakos Mitsotakis will continue to support the agricultural sector: “We know very well that by supporting the primary sector, we support the Greek region, ensure food adequacy and preserve social cohesion throughout the country.”