Lack of state strategy threatens Bulgarian fruit growing, industry chamber warns

Need for systemic state policy

Bulgaria needs a consistent state strategy for the development of fruit growing to ensure stability in the sector. This was stated by Kosta Petrov, Chairman of the 'Fruits and Vegetables' Industry Chamber – Sliven, during the 24th edition of the 'Golden Peach' festival in the village of Gavrailovo.

According to Petrov, despite the accumulating problems facing producers, there has been insufficient interest from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food in resolving them so far.

The example of Spain and the importance of organization

As a model for efficient production, the chamber chairman pointed to Spain. There, approximately 1.2 million tons of peaches are grown annually, with nearly one million tons realized on international markets. The success of the Spanish sector is due to an established state system, working cooperatives, and good organization of the entire process – from production itself to preparation and sale.

"Knowing what and how is produced, having packaging lines to prepare the production – whether for the domestic market or for export. There will be years with very good harvests of cherries, peaches, and plums. If there is no organization for realization outside Bulgaria, the production will remain on the domestic market and prices will drop," emphasized Kosta Petrov.

Risk of uprooting orchards

The lack of sustainable markets and opportunities to realize production at prices that cover production costs could have heavy consequences. Petrov warned that if the situation repeats for several years, producers may be forced to give up their activities. With a continued lack of organization and state support, there is a real risk that Bulgarian fruit growers will begin to mass uproot their orchards.