EU farm commissioner sees potential for Maltese produce

The EU's Commissioner for Agriculture and Fisheries, Franz Fischler yesterday told Malta's agricultural industry to take advantage of EU membership.

"In my view one should not be on the defensive. Malta has the capability to be on the offensive and it can provide very interesting products to the community," he told The Times at the start of an official visit to Malta.

He said this was especially because of Malta's climate and because early potatoes and other vegetables could be provided to the community market in a season when such products were not produced in some parts of the Union. "The best promotion for a country like yours are the tourists. If the tourists will have the opportunity to appreciate the Maltese products, they would want to see them at home."

Mr Fischler said that in the agricultural sector, Malta had made a huge effort to prepare for membership but it was clear that work still needed to be done.

"Some additional efforts have to be made and this includes further work in administrative capacity building."

Mr Fischler yesterday met Prime Minister Eddie Fenech Adami at the Auberge de Castille, in Valletta. He also held meetings with Rural Affairs and Environment Minister George Pullicino.