We participated in the SmartFarmer Rural Development and Economic Growth Conference in Cyprus

From 24 to 29 October, the Rural Development and Economic Growth Conference was held in Cyprus, where the ZSA provided information about Latvian agriculture and current events to 62 conference participants from 5 countries. The main topic of the conference was the cultivation, processing and sale of high-quality fruits and berries. Accordingly, the ZSA presented the products of SIA Very berry as an example of good practice. The conference participants from the Southern countries were very interested in Latvian processed products, as well as wine production from berries.

Greek representatives presented Superfoods a cooperative in which Leader a new processing plant has been built with the support of the project. The cooperative is also actively involved in testing different recipes and recommends not to be afraid of various experiments. The Portuguese representatives, in turn, emphasized their experience – to engage in different sectors, such as agriculture, processing and ecotourism, on one farm. In this way, a profitable middle ground is created between economic profitability, preservation of natural values, personal satisfaction and happiness.

Our Spanish colleagues introduced us to organic fruit growing. Spain is a European leader in this field. With tangible examples, they presented the development of small farms that deliver products directly to consumers and the volumes that can be achieved by uniting 16 farms.

The Cypriot representatives noted the importance of local food and the observance of quality requirements throughout Europe. It was emphasized that farmers often need additional knowledge on how to deliver these well-grown and processed products to consumers. As a result, an innovative e-learning platform was developed during the project, with the help of which any farmer in Europe will be able to draw inspiration and knowledge.

The trip was organized within the framework of Smartfarmer project No. “LLP-LdV-ToI-13-CY-1671317”.

You can get acquainted with the project platform –