November 8, 2018 - Through the cooperation of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in Podgorica, a workshop was held with the aim to present the best practices and approaches for improving the placement and achieving a sustainable supply chains of domestic fruits and vegetables.
The workshop was realized as part of the project "Support the sustainable integration of value chains in the fruit and vegetable sector in Montenegro", which is implemented by the Ministry with FAO.
As a key obstacle to increasing the competitiveness of domestic producers in the fruit and vegetable sector, there is a lack of connectivity between entities participating in the chain from production to marketing.
At the meeting, it was emphasized that the association of producers can lead to better planning of production, purchase, and placement of products.
At the same time, strengthening the connections and the relationship between producers and customers, including retailers, is essential for making a sustainable supply chain and achieving greater competitiveness of the producers.
The main goal of this workshop is to raise the awareness of the producers about the importance of their organization through agricultural cooperatives. It is a way to strengthen connections and build long-term relationships between suppliers and traders.
Also, experiences on the best practices for placement and transport, as well as packaging and labeling of fresh fruits and vegetables were exchanged, in accordance with the European regulations and standards.
The workshops were attended by producers and representatives of associations, representatives of retail chains and entities engaged in the purchase and distribution of fruits and vegetables.
Text by CdM, on November 7th, 2018, read more at CdM
