Producers have diminished while processors increase. The new figures about the Italian organic industry released by SINAB show a growth by 10% in organic cultivated areas. Italy still holds the crown in Europe for number of organic certified players and cultivated surface under organic farming in Europe, except for forests and pastures in which Spain leads.
At the end of December 2009, organic operators in Italy were 48.509, reducing by about 2% compared to last year. Producers in particular suffered a significant decline (-3.7%), while processors of organic products continues to grow (+3.5%). For surfaces, 1,106,684 hectares of organically cultivated areas were recorded by SINAB, up by approximately 10% from last year.
Southern Italian regions are at the forefront as far as organic surfaces (Sicilia, Puglia and Basilicata) and number of organic companies (Sicilia, Puglia and Basilicata) are concerned. While in the north of the country most of the processors are located (especially Emilia Romagna and Lombardy).
The main products of the Italian organic industry (excluding grassland) are, in order of importance: grains, olive trees, fruits (including shell fruit), vineyards, citrus fruits and vegetables.
Commenting the latest SINAB data, the Italian minister for Agriculture Giancarlo Galan stated: "Our organic products are increasingly appreciated by Italian and European consumers, however much is still to be done to support organic farming, who are committed in an industry that makes quality products while respecting the environment."
“It is necessary to encourage the organic conversion of new companies and find out tools to improve the supply chains' structuring, which the organic industry definitely needs. Our goal - concluded Galan - is to encourage as much as possible access of our agricultural businesses in this booming market, thus responding to the consumer demands."
.gif)
