The production of organic fruits and vegetables in Israel rose by 25 per cent during the first six months of 2002, and sales revenues for that period increased at the same rate, according to the Israel Bio-Organic Agriculture Association (BOAA).
Sales of organic produce during the first six months of 2002 amounted to NIS75 million (US$15.3 million), compared with NIS60m (US$12.2 million) for the same period in 2001.
Mr Israel Schmidt, BOAA general manager, told freshinfo that organically-grown potatoes, onions and carrots were the fastest growing items in the country's agricultural organic sector.
He commented that Israeli farmers have gained considerable experience in growing organic vegetables and fruits, 'in view of the country's advanced R&D and extension services, and due to the close relationship between farmers and researchers.' Mr Schmidt noted that as of the beginning of 2004, only organically-bred and grown seeds will have to be used by organic farmers throughout the world. 'This new regulation opens up many opportunities for exporting Israeli-grown organic seeds,' he said.
Israel's Minister of Agriculture Shalom Simhon said, during a tour in organic farms in the Galilee, that organic farming in Israel 'developed at a very fast rate in recent years, despite the recession in the country's economy.' He added that the Ministry allocated a special budget to finance the development of the organic extension service, and to train additional farmers who recently joined the BOAA.
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