Beekeeping Forum confirms growth of this sector in recent years, says António Ventura
Ponta Delgada
Secretaria Regional da Agricultura e do Desenvolvimento Rural
António Ventura also recalled today, on the sidelines of the presentation of the event, that the production plans for the dairy and meat sectors are under public consultation until the end of March. The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Rural Development, António Ventura, stressed today that the Beekeeping Forum to be held in São Miguel on March 26 and 27 confirms the "growth that this sector has registered in recent years, with an increase in the number of beekeepers, apiaries and honey processing units. This has contributed to an increase and improvement in production without prejudice to the rigorous health rules applicable to the sector."
As the government official stressed at a press conference held in Ponta Delgada, this forum "aims to discuss various technical and political themes" and, above all, it will be "a meeting with producers and consumers."
António Ventura also stressed that "talking about honey is not just talking about food production, but rather to correlate this product with public health and economic diversity, which is fundamental in the Azores. It also involves correlating honey with the Azores brand, highlighting its importance in creating more jobs, combating depopulation and preventing ageing."
The Regional Secretary also mentioned that "despite the current crisis" due to the military conflict in Ukraine, the best way to respond to this situation is to strengthen the agrifood production chains.
"Not all of us are producers, but all of us are consumers," he said.
The Azores Beekeeping Forum has prepared a comprehensive programme that includes technical lectures, beekeeping exhibitors, showcooking sessions, beehive display, honey tasting, honey plants display, as well as activities for children. The event takes place at the São Miguel Exhibition Park on March 26 and 27 and will be open to the public in general.
António Ventura also recalled today, on the sidelines of the presentation of the event, that the production plans for the dairy and meat sectors are under public consultation until the end of March.
