Speaking at an international organic farming conference, held at the Diplomat Hotel, Mr Pullicino said the government intends expanding its research in the field and exploring the possibility of participating in specific EU programmes. The government is aiming at making Malta a leader in organic farming research, he said. At the moment two experimental stations are being set up at the government’s farm in Ghammieri and the land allocated to organic farming in Ghammieri has recently been increased from one to 1.2 hectares, he explained. “We intend the cultivations there to be a showcase for farmers interested in converting to organic methods of production.” Research has also been listed as a priority in the National Action Plan for Organic Farming. At present there are two dissertations being carried out at the University, both of which are assisted by the organic farming unit.

A recent research carried out among a representative sample of the Maltese population indicates there is a strong demand for such products in Malta. Consumers have even indicated they are ready to pay more for products that have been grown organically, Mr Pullicino pointed out.

“During a recent visit I made to some organic farms in Gozo, one of the farmers told me that he can sell whatever he produces anytime he liked with one phone call.” The consumer pattern in Malta follows that of the rest of Europe. In fact, half of all organic products sold worldwide are purchased in Europe, he added. There are presently some 20 local farmers growing organic crops on a total of some 16 hectares, a five-fold increase over a year ago. The figures are expected to grow at a steady pace in the coming years. He also added that the trend must be complemented by rigorous checks in order to maintain high standards of quality. Notwithstanding such progress, the government is striving to promote this sector further, he emphasised. In fact, a representative from the Ministry is involved in an EU committee on organic farming research and will soon be attending a seminar on this subject in Brussels.

The progress made in this sector indicates that the industry is going through a renaissance, he concluded. “Government will continue to be pro-active in helping the local sector achieve an edge.”