Canary Islands' Avocado Sector Achieves PGI Recognition

Overview

The Canary Islands' avocado sector has achieved a significant milestone with the official recognition of the 'Aguacate de Canarias' as a protected geographical indication (PGI).

Regulatory Framework

Following European and national regulations, the Canarian government has officially delegated the control and certification tasks for this PGI to accredited organizations, primarily the Canary Islands Institute of Agro-food Quality.

The move aims to streamline quality assurance across the archipelago's widespread avocado producers, ensuring consistent standards while managing resource constraints.

Importance and Goals

• The regulation emphasizes the importance of the avocado industry for the region’s economy.
• Highlights the need for robust certification processes, especially given the high volume of applications and dispersed production sites across the islands.
• By delegating responsibilities, the government aims to maintain product integrity and facilitate market access for local farmers.

Producer and Certifier Requirements

Producers and certifying entities wishing to operate under the PGI must now:

• Notify the Canary Islands Institute of Agro-food Quality of their accreditation according to European standards.

Benefits

• Strengthens the reputation of 'Aguacate de Canarias' both locally and internationally.
• Helps regional producers stand out in global markets.
• Safeguards consumers through rigorous quality checks.