Agricultural conference underlines need for self-sufficiency

At an agricultural conference, officials highlighted the importance of using EU funds and increasing production to reduce dependence on imports and other external factors.

They also stressed that food safety and competitiveness remain crucial, particularly during challenging times.

Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries David Vlajčić said the country is facing ongoing challenges from animal diseases.

"The fight continues against African swine fever, anthrax, and bluetongue disease. There is also a constant threat from even more dangerous infections, such as foot-and-mouth disease, avian influenza, and lumpy skin disease, which are present in our immediate vicinity."

Prime Minister Andrej Plenković noted Croatia’s strengths and areas for improvement in food production:

"Today, we are highly self-sufficient in certain sectors, especially cereals and oilseeds, which provides a stable basis for food security. At the same time, we must recognize that in other areas—especially fruit and vegetable production and parts of the meat sector—we need to invest further to fully realize our potential."

Independent MP Marijana Petir, chairperson of Parliament's Agriculture Committee, praised Croatian farmers’ sustainable practices:

"Croatian farmers already use half as many pesticides, anti-microbials, and mineral fertilizers as the EU average. Thanks to such production, Croatia can be proud of its well-preserved environment and high-quality, great-tasting food."