The event will present the first estimate of the 2024 apple and pear crop forecast and the current market situation in the fruit sector. The main part of the event will be marked by a RIS3 Strategy Round Table on "Fruit growing without pesticides: Mission (Im)Possible?".

In Slovenia, we are not opposed to the objective of reducing the use of plant protection products (PPPs), despite the many problems faced by growers with the emergence of new diseases and pests, the effects of climate change, the limited range of available PPPs due to the small size of the market and the lack of suitable alternative control methods. It is crucial for us that the objectives of reducing the use of PPPs do not lead to a reduction in agricultural production, thereby jeopardizing food security and further increasing dependence on food imports from other countries where the range of uses is wider and production more competitive.

Reducing the use of PPPs is necessary to preserve the environment and protect human health, but it must be done in a way that does not jeopardize agricultural production and the country's food security. The specific situation of Slovenian agriculture and fruit production must be considered and appropriate support for producers must be ensured.

The aim of the event is to address various challenges impacting the future of Slovenian fruit growing, including use of PPPs, food loss, food waste, sustainable business models, the circular economy, etc. Representatives from industry, agriculture, politics, farmer’s advisory services and business will come together to exchange views and collaboratively discuss about vision for the sustainable and competitive development of Slovenian fruit growing

AGENDA 27.08.2024

12.00 - 12.15 Greetings from the President of the Fruit Growers Association of the CCIS-CAFE, Mohor Holešek

12.15 - 12.50 First estimate of the 2024 apple and pear harvest forecast

12.50- 13.00 Introduction to the RIS3 Strategy Round Table, Dr. Tatjana Zagorc, CCIS-CAFE

13.00- 13.45 RIS3 Strategy Roundtable: ' Fruit growing without pesticides: Mission (Im)Possible?'

Participants:

- a representative of the Administration of the Republic of Slovenia for Food Safety, Veterinary Sector and Plant Protection, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Food

- a representative of a fruit-growing company

- Branko Zupančič, BASF Slovenija

- Dr. Mario Lešnik, University of Maribor, Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Moderated by: Katja Kresse

13.45 - 14.00 Discussion and conclusion

For more information visist the event's website here or contact the event coordinator Dr. Vesna Miličić, vesna.milicic@gzs.si, 01 58 98 109.