Crete participates in World Gastronomy Summit 2026 in Ecuador

The Region of Crete participated in the 2nd World Gastronomy Summit 2026, held from October 14 to 17 in the Manabí Province of Ecuador. Represented by Vice Regional Governor Spyros Balantinos, Crete attended in its capacity as the European Gastronomy Region 2026, an initiative supported by the International Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism Institute (IGCAT).

The summit, themed ‘Empowering the New Generation through Gastronomy,’ brought together representatives from 40 countries, including regional authorities, international organizations, academics, and professionals from the agri-food and tourism sectors. Discussions focused on the role of gastronomy in supporting local economies, preserving cultural heritage, and creating opportunities for youth through entrepreneurship and innovation.

During the event, the Cretan delegation presented strategies to link tourism with the primary sector. Key objectives include increasing the presence of Cretan products in hospitality and catering, developing visitable production units, and promoting authentic gastronomic experiences.