The discussion was organised by the Croatian Chamber of Agriculture (HPK) and the European Commission Representation in Croatia, and it was attended by representatives of manufacturers, the science sector and decision makers on the future strategy "From Field to Table", which is a key component of the European Green Deal.
The European Green Deal is a set of measures which should help citizens and businesses benefit from a sustainable, green transition. The measures and the accompanying key policies range from the ambitious emission reduction to investing in top research and innovation, as well as preserving the natural environment in Europe.
"Clean environment, being GMO-free and a highly diversified economy are our great advantages. We are very near to what the EU is trying to accomplish with the new deal," said HPK president Mladen Jakopovic.
He warned, however, of the excessive and cheap import, poor purchasing power and putting production and agriculture into a very negative context in the past, which had led to a decline in production in almost all sectors.
Jakopovic said that in the last five years agricultural production in Croatia had decreased by 26%, while the value of agricultural production since the country joined the EU had fallen by approximately HRK 5 billion.
MEP Ruza Tomasic said that the "From Field to Table" strategy, which should be published on March 31, underscored the need to ensure healthy, accessible, safe and environmentally friendly food along the entire supply chain.
She said the main objective of the strategy should be to maintain competitive agricultural production which would help protect the income of our farmers and fishermen.
Tomasic said the biggest problem in Croatia was resolving the issue of agricultural land.