The Algarve was chosen at this year's International Citrus Congress, which took place in South Korea from the 10th to the 15th November.
The application was submitted by the University of Algarve, CCDR Algarve and AlgarOrange – Association of Citrus Operators of the Algarve, supported by the Portuguese Horticulture Association, Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development, Algarve Agriculture Federation (FEDAGRI), Higher Institute of Agronomy and National Institute of Agricultural and Veterinary Research, IP.
The Algarve is the main citrus-producing region in Portugal. Around 88% of the country’s production is located in tthe Algarve. The region’s climatic and natural conditions provide the ideal conditions for the production of high-quality citrus fruits, with a history spanning centuries and an identity recognised at national level and by the European Union with the distinction of “Citrinos do Algarve” – Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), the result of the commitment of companies in the sector and their interaction with research and public services in the area of agriculture.
The results of the last citrus fruit campaign, which projected trends for next year, point to an increase in production of around 10% compared to the average of previous years, with growth expected to continue next year, with an annual turnover of around 388 million euros.
In addition to supplying the national market, citrus fruits produced in the Algarve are some of the most exported fruits by Portugal. In 2023, exports of these products exceeded 197 million euros, 10.4 million more than in the previous year.
The International Citrus Congress, which takes place every four years, will be attended by hundreds of researchers, technicians and businesspeople from the citrus sector, and is one of the largest events in the world in terms of agri-food issues.
The 2028 congress will be held in Sicily (Italy).
Source https://www.algarvemarafado.com/ - Photo courtesy of Depositphotos.com
