Thessaly Region explores local markets to support legume producers

The Regional Governor of Thessaly, Dimitris Kouretas, met with several agricultural cooperatives to address challenges facing legume producers in the region. Representatives from cooperatives including THESGE, THESTO, Enipeas, Agios Konstantinos Farsalon, and Kileler reported difficulties in marketing surplus quantities of chickpeas, lentils, beans, and broad beans.

Producers cited pressure from industrial buyers offering low prices and unfair competition from bulk imports. In response, the Region and the cooperatives are exploring the establishment of local markets throughout Thessaly. This initiative aims to facilitate direct contact between producers and consumers, allowing high-quality local products to be sold at prices significantly lower than those found in supermarkets.

The Regional Authority has also requested the involvement and support of consumer associations to assist with this project.