The project to obtain Protected Geographical Indication status for “Cereza de Calatayud y del Aranda” has taken another step forward. The Government of Aragón has confirmed its support for the initiative, which is considered strategic for enhancing an increasingly recognised cherry production sector and strengthening its presence in the markets.
The foundations of the project were examined during a meeting held in Zaragoza, attended by the Vice-President of the Government of Aragón, Alejandro Nolasco, and the Regional Minister for Agriculture, Arancha Simón.
Also taking part in the discussions were Alberto Pérez Millán, president of the farmers’ association promoting the initiative, Gustavo Lázaro of Grupo Interlázaro, and Amparo Cuéllar, Director-General for Food Innovation and Promotion.
The meeting made it possible to define the first steps required for the establishment of the PGI, identified as a key instrument for improving the quality, recognition and marketing of the cherries grown in the districts of Calatayud and Aranda.
Nolasco described the project as “a priority and strategically important”, while Simón confirmed the regional administration’s support for accelerating the launch of the procedures, as far as possible, during the summer.
Cherry growing is an agricultural activity of particular economic importance to the areas concerned. The productive area covers approximately 1,500 hectares, while the association pursuing PGI recognition brings together around one hundred farmers and commercial operators.
The objective extends beyond certification of origin. The European recognition is expected to help increase the product’s added value, support the income of supply-chain operators and strengthen the agricultural economy of the two areas in the province of Zaragoza.
The process is also being supported by the growing reputation of cherries from Calatayud and Aranda. The distinctive characteristics of local production set them apart from other cherries grown in Aragón and elsewhere in Spain, providing an important foundation for building a recognisable territorial identity.
The Government of Aragón intends to expedite the administrative requirements under its responsibility, although completion of the European procedure could take up to two years.
To avoid further delays, Arancha Simón invited the producers’ association to prepare all the documentation by 30 July. The dossier can then be submitted to the Ministry of Agriculture and subsequently to the institutions of the European Union.
The planned initiatives also include a visit by Simón and Cuéllar to the Calatayud district, scheduled for the Monday following the meeting. The visit will provide an opportunity to examine the sector’s requirements in greater detail and engage directly with representatives of the local fruit supply chain.
The future PGI could become a decisive tool for consolidating the link between the cherries and their area of origin. In addition to protecting the characteristics of production, certification could improve the product’s market positioning and create new opportunities in domestic and international markets.
The administrative process remains complex, but the support of the institutions and the involvement of industry operators point to a shared objective: transforming the Calatayud and Aranda cherry into a recognised and competitive agricultural asset, including beyond regional borders.
Source: Go Aragon
Image source: Stefano Lugli
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