Programmatic Agreement titled "RESEARCH, SUPPORT, AND PROMOTION ACTIONS FOR AVOCADO CULTIVATION IN CRETE"

The Project Owner is the Region of Crete / ROP REGION OF CRETE
Implementing Bodies are jointly designated as: the Technical University of Crete, ELGO DIMITRA, and PANETAIK S.A.
Funding Body: Region of Crete
Supervising Authority: Directorate of Agricultural Development and Veterinary Services of Chania Regional Unit
Managing Authority: Department of Quality and Phytosanitary Control

Avocado cultivation in Crete is considered an emerging and profitable crop. The aim of this research project is to address serious issues faced by avocado cultivation, support interested producers, and promote the product at both national and international levels.

The research work under this agreement will form the foundation for the healthy and uninterrupted development of avocado cultivation in Crete. The three parameters — Training, Certified Material, and Harvest Timing — resolve key challenges preventing producers from becoming competitive in international markets with a profitable product.

The only Greek Pre-Basic Avocado Plantation will be established, for the production of certified propagation material to be supplied to nursery enterprises, with end recipients being the producers.

In parallel, the research program aims to maximize post-harvest storage time, as the relatively short shelf life of avocados is a major issue for exports and even for domestic distribution. Data will be collected for each storage technology, and processing and statistical evaluation of the results will be carried out, aiming to identify the optimal storage technology for each avocado type.

A core concern of the program is to support avocado cultivation in the wider region of Crete, assist producers, protect quality, and promote a high-quality, upgraded product.

**Implementation Period:** 42 months
**Status:** In progress

Files:

Programmatic Agreement (with ADA)
Roll-up
CRETE AVOCADO – CULTIVATION GUIDE