(9 February 2017) “Apulia is a very important – even essential I would say – in the produce field and this is demonstrated by increasing data: on the one hand, we are looking at the numbers quantitatively and on the other hand we are looking at the quality of the products that are receiving increasing recognition internationally” according to Italian Ambassador to Berlin, Piero Benassi on his visito to the Apulia stand at the Berlin Fruit Logistica 2017 accompanied by the Regional Councillor for Agriculture Leonardo Di Gioia. This annual event in Berlin is the most important European event in the produce sector with an area of 117,000 square metres (the equivalent of 14 football fields) including 2,900 exhibitors from 83 different countries. If 2015 was a record year for Apulian agricultural exports (more than €800 million during a five-year period of constant growth); 2016, according to Unioncamere Puglia (awaiting final data) indicates a positive trend that – despite atmospheric catastrophies – will reach €750 million in direct exportations. (Red)

‘MADE IN PUGLIA’ NUMBERS

The ‘Made in Puglia’ brand represents 12% of the agricultural products that Italy sells on foreign markets. ‘Made in Puglia’ continuously reaffirms itself beyond European borders, considering the €240 million in agricultural exports in the Mediterranean Basin, Africa, and the Middle East. 70,000 visitors are expected to attend Fruit Logistica in Berlin from 138 different countries (20% from America and Asia). Apulia is currently represented by more than 200 companies. 17 important producers are hosted in Apulia’s stand, managed by the Council for Agriculture and Unioncamere Puglia.