In Greece

In the rest of Europe, a culture of respect for the rights of new varieties has been well established for years, allowing producers to gain access to exceptional, protected varieties and to participate actively in dynamic international markets. Greece has every opportunity to follow this example and strengthen both our credibility and our competitiveness in the sector.

A characteristic example is the case of Pink Lady®, based on the Cripps Pink variety. Despite our repeated efforts to obtain a propagation license from the company holding the rights, the response has been negative, as the rights holders are concerned about sufficient protection against unauthorized propagation. This stance is not unique: more and more companies owning protected varieties hesitate to collaborate in markets where full confidence in compliance with the rules is lacking.

The good news is that we can change this! Through joint efforts by producers, nursery owners, cooperatives, and institutional bodies, we can build a more reliable framework for respecting intellectual property rights on new varieties. In doing so, we will reopen the door to top-tier varieties, boost the extroversion of Greek plant production, and give Greek growers the chance to cultivate and market some of the most sought-after products worldwide. It’s a challenge, but also a tremendous opportunity for all of us!