Canary Islands’ New Grant Program for Cochineal Producers

Overview

The Canary Islands’ Agriculture Ministry has launched a new grant program to support cochineal producers across the region.

Targeted Participants

• Farms cultivating Opuntia cacti that are part of the 'Cochinilla de Canarias' protected designation of origin (DOP).

Goals of the Initiative

• Boost both the production and sale of high-quality cochineal insects.
• Support their use primarily for natural dyes and cosmetics.

Funding Details

• The program will distribute €14,848 annually over the 2024 and 2025 campaigns.
• Funding is financed by the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (FEAGA).

Producer Compensation

• Producers will receive €32 per kilogram of cochineal if they qualify as 'professional farmers.'
• Others will receive €16 per kilogram.

Application Process

• Interested farmers have 15 days from the official publication date to submit their applications.

Objectives and Benefits

• Strengthen local agriculture.
• Preserve traditional industries.
• Enhance the region’s economic resilience, especially with increasing global demand for natural dyes.

"This support seeks to strengthen local agriculture, preserve traditional industries, and enhance the region’s economic resilience, especially as demand for natural dyes grows globally."