Italy Bolsters Support for Southern Wheat and Olive Oil Production

The Italian Ministry of Agriculture and Food Sovereignty is working to support Southern Italy's wheat and olive oil production, which are key components of the Mediterranean Diet. Minister Francesco Lollobrigida announced measures to enhance national production and help farmers who are struggling with low prices.

Lollobrigida emphasized that 'farmers must be incentivized at a time when wheat is being sold at extremely low prices.' The ministry plans to invest in research, implement controls on imported wheat, and promote 100% Italian pasta. Additionally, the creation of a 'Southern Italy Pasta PDO' was proposed by Coldiretti to recognize and reward durum wheat cultivation in southern regions.

The supply chain for durum wheat has received significant funding from the EU crisis reserve, covering up to 50% of fertilizer price increases. However, more support is needed as the cereals sector has received only a total of 2.5 billion since 2022.

Coldiretti called for increased controls on foreign wheat using innovative tools and an extraordinary storage plan due to aging facilities. The organization also requested crackdowns on unfair commercial practices and origin fraud, which have become major issues in the industry.