Greek Medicinal and Aromatic Plants on International Market

The president of the Association for Medicinal and Aromatic Plants of Greece (EAFFE), Katerina Grigoriadou, declared that the industry intends to expand into the international market. “The market for aromatic plants can bloom outside Greece,” she said. “Such a development will boost the Greek economy by creating new job opportunities. However, this will require cooperation,” explained Grigoriadou. “Partnerships are essential not only for the survival and growth of this market, which is still in its early stages, but also for our products to receive the market acceptance they deserve. This is a market with unlimited potential but in order to succeed a serious commitment is required,” she added. Grigoriadou explained that during 2014 the Association will have completed the recording of all aromatic and medicinal plants in Greece. The objectives of the Association are the promotion and development of Greek aromatic and medicinal plants, the promotion of research, production, distribution and use of these and the establishment of a national policy in order to produce and market in Greece and internationally. Greece represents 50 percent of EU plant biodiversity, 80 percent of Balkan flora and 6,500 species that have been recorded as Greek flora. Among these are 2,944 endemic aromatic and medicinal plants. Most remain unused while the international market is valued at over 20 billion Euros. Aromatic and medicinal plants will be presented at a conference organized during the 25th Agrotica exhibition which will be held from January 31 to February 2 at the Helexpo International Exhibition Center in Thessaloniki.  

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