Crete grape growers plan protests over production losses

Grape growers in Heraklion, Crete, are organizing a mass protest following significant production challenges and economic uncertainty. The organizers, including the Producers Organization and the Archanes Viticulturists Agricultural Cooperative, have called for a demonstration on November 7, 2026, in Archanes.

Producers cite several critical issues, including high cultivation costs, delayed compensation for damages incurred in 2026, and a drop in export demand for late-season varieties like Sultana. The market has also faced competition from grape imports from Egypt and Turkey.

Stratis Stratakis, president of the Archanes Viticulturists Agricultural Cooperative, noted that while early table grapes saw stable prices, later varieties faced price drops and unsold stock. Additionally, heavy rains in early October caused damage to unprotected grapes, and moisture issues affected covered crops. Many growers report having little to no income this season due to reduced harvests.