The regional administration of Crete and the cooperatives of the island have filled a motion to the Greek Ministry of Agriculture regarding the recognition of Cretan olive oil as Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) product and requested that packaging should take place only within the geographical boundaries of Crete island.
Although the Greek Association of Olive Oil Packers (SEVITEL) agrees with the PGI recognition request they strongly oppose to the restriction of packaging only in the geographical area of Crete. Cretans argue on maximizing added value and safeguarding quality by ensuring the origin and control, although SEVITEL is in favour of the free movement of olive oil without restrictions.
Negotiations are currently conducted between the two sides, SEVITEL and Cretan representatives in charge, on the above issue.
Crete along with Peloponnese are the main Greek olive oil producing areas. Therefore, Crete possesses a strong name in the market and the reputation to demand an olive oil PGI recognition.
By now 12 Cretan olive oils have been recognised as PDO products.
