Mur-de-Bretagne: EU Agriculture Commissioner Dacian Ciolos promised specific action for organic farming and direct selling, while attending a fair in western France Saturday.
"We have considered implementing, proposing specific measures for organic (farming) and systems of organic production that are targeted directly at the consumer," Ciolos said.
He was speaking at a press conference from the 25th edition of the annual Biozone fair in Mur-de-Bretagne in France`s Brittany region.
The measures, outlined in the European Union`s Common Agricultural Policy, plan to "give member states the possibility of supporting organic agriculture" -- a farming practice which "assures a good and durable management of natural resources", said Ciolos.
Other measures include a logo for local producers who engage in direct selling, from which "organic production could benefit".
Ciolos, who studied in Brittany and completed an internship with Biozone`s current president, urged apprehensive producers to use the fair to make connections. "Don`t fear Europe," he said.
"This fair is a good example of direct communication between producers and consumers. Citizens are waiting for farmers to be more present when their products are sold."
But he stressed the importance of maintaining diversity in production.
"We cannot speak of one system, each system of production has its place. Closeness to the point of sale, direct selling are important on the European market."
Bureau Report
