Market Information
Europe

Market Brief
The Pulse Products Market in Greece

October 2002

© Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
FaxLink # 0800006

Report prepared by the Market Research Centre
Market Support Division (TCM)
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
125 Sussex Drive, Ottawa K1A 0G2
Fax: (613) 943-1103
E-mail: mrc@dfait-maeci.gc.ca

The Market Research Centre produces a wide range of market reports by region and sector for Canadian exporters. These reports are available from:

-- DFAIT's InfoExport Internet site (http://www.infoexport.gc.ca).

The Government of Canada has prepared this report based on primary and secondary sources of information. Readers should take note that the Government of Canada does not guarantee the accuracy of any of the information contained in this report, nor does it necessarily endorse the organizations listed herein. Readers should independently verify the accuracy and reliability of the information.

Quick Facts

Market Highlights

• Greece is a consistent market for Canadian pulse products. Three of Canada's top ten exports to Greece in 2001 were pulses: lentils (11.6% of total exports), beans (9.3%) and chick peas (1.9%).
• Declining domestic production coupled with a growing demand for pulse products means that Greece will continue to be a significant market for Canadian chick peas, beans, lentils and peas in the years ahead.

Opportunities

• Canadians--who are already among the top overall suppliers of pulse products to Greece--will find the future holds continued good prospects. Currently, supply opportunities are available for processed pulses, particularly canned products. Export possibilities are especially strong for organic and non-genetically modified pulse products.
• The growing private-label market is also a promising area for Canadian pulse products.
• The hotel, restaurant and institutional (HRI) sector will see tremendous growth in the coming years as Greek consumers move toward the trend of eating out and as a result of increasing tourism, particularly during the 2004 Summer Olympic Games. This expansion will have a significant effect on imports as additional quantities of key staple ingredients, such as pulses, will be required.

Key Players

• Canada is Greece's top supplier of dried leguminous vegetables. In 2001, total pulse imports from Canada exceeded $10.6 million⁽¹⁾. Other leading foreign competitors include the United States, China, Mexico and Turkey.

Customers

• Pulses, including beans, peas, lentils and chick peas, are a favourite ingredient in many traditional Greek dishes. Although pulse purchases have declined over the past 20 years, they are on the rise again as consumers become more nutrition conscious and strive for a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet.
• Food safety is an important issue to Greek consumers. Not only are food ingredients carefully scrutinized but food production origin is also an important consideration for Greek consumers. Canada is perceived by many consumers to have a clean and natural environment, which will only benefit Canadian exporters.

Export Checklist

• As a member of the European Union, Greece subscribes to the EU common external tariff, joint transportation policy and the directives on the free movement of goods, labour and capital. Trade between EU members is duty free. The value-added tax levied on pulse products in Greece is 8%.
• Greece is also bound by the EU common agricultural policy and EU directives regarding genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
• All exports must be accompanied by a standard set of shipping documents. Mandatory label information must be printed in Greek.

Market Summary

• Greece offers an attractive consumer market for foreign products and services in virtually every sector. The country has a gross domestic product (GDP) of $181.9 billion and a population in excess of 10 million.
• Greece has a mixed capitalist economy with the public sector accounting for about half of GDP. Tourism is a major source of foreign exchange earnings and is expected to continue to grow as a result of infrastructure improvement . Government goals to raise the standard of living and the fast-approaching 2004 Olympic Games will likely mean increased opportunities for exporters and investors in many sectors of the country's economy.
• Agriculture accounts for approximately 20% of the Greek work force. However, as a result of intensive farming and a lack of high mechanization, the agricultural sector accounted for only 8.3% of total GDP in 2001.
• Canada's agri-food exports to Greece in 2001 totalled $46.1 million. Three of Canada's top exports to Greece were pulses: lentils (which accounted for 11.6% of total exports), beans (9.3%) and chick peas (1.9%). Although pulse products are grown domestically, local production can not meet the large and growing demand. Moreover, Greece devotes only 0.8% of cultivated crop land to pulse production and this figure is dwindling. Greece will therefore continue to depend on pulses imports in the years ahead.
• Pulses are an important part of the Greek diet. There has been an increasing demand for pulses in recent years, particularly now that people have become more nutrition conscious and strive for a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet. Total annual consumption is estimated at 64 000 tonnes.
• While pulse products are popular all year round, sales are particularly high during the Lenten season. It should be noted that Greek Orthodox Easter, which is an important fasting period for many Greeks, is a movable holiday.

Beans

• With approximately 22 320 tonnes produced domestically, beans are the most important pulse crop in Greece. The country is a top supplier of bulk dry and canned beans to neighbouring countries. Giant white kidney beans, grown in Florina, is the best-known domestic variety of bean.
• Domestic production of feed beans is expected to increase in 2002 to 6000 tonnes--up from 5610 tonnes in 2001.
• Beans are used in a number of traditional Greek dishes including soups, which are often a Friday staple, and casseroles. Favabeans, also known as horse beans or broad beans, are the most popular variety consumed in the country. Other beans used heavily in Greece include white kidney beans, navy beans, both large and medium white beans, cranberry beans and blackeye beans.
• Beans are sold throughout Greece in both dry and processed formats. Of all packaging formats, canned beans dominate sales and are expected to grow significantly in the coming years, reaching $4.2 million by 2005, up from $3.6 million in 2002.
• Canadian exports of beans to the Greek market totalled $4.4 million in 2001. Canada was the leading supplier of small red beans and the third-largest supplier of kidney beans behind the United States and Poland. Other top foreign exporters of beans include China, Turkey and Spain.
• Canadian exports of dry beans are forecast to increase through 2003 because of strong demand. The average price, over all classes and grades, is forecast to decrease by 15-20% from 2001-2002 prices because of increased global supply.

Chick Peas

• Chick peas, also known as garbanzo beans or revithia in Greece, are primarily used in soups. They are also roasted and sold as a snack food known as stragalia.
• Over 6000 hectares are devoted to domestic production of chick peas. Local production yields approximately 10 000 tonnes; enough to meet local demand. Only the large seed kabuli variety is grown in Greece.
• Domestic production of chick peas has, to date, been limited due to disease and their low resistance to cold temperatures. Researchers have overcome these obstacles and the mass production of two varieties, amorgos and andros, will soon begin.
• Canada is the second-largest supplier of chick peas to the Greek market. Exports totalled $824 317 in 2001, a significant decrease from the $1.2 million exported in 2000. Other top suppliers in 2001 included Mexico ($2.7 million), Portugal ($161 200) and Turkey ($124 765).
• Total world supply is expected to remain stable at 8 million tonnes over the 2002-2003 period. Canadian exports are forecast to increase as Canada's share of total world supply increases. The average price over all types, sizes and grades is forecast to be the same as in 2001-02.

Lentils

• Lentils are used almost exclusively for human consumption in soups, stews, salads and casseroles. The total lentil market in Greece is 13 500 tonnes.
• Lentils are grown domestically on the island of Levkas. In 2002, lentil production totalled 845 tonnes.
• Greece is one of the key global import markets for small lentils. The country also imports large green lentils.
• With sales of $6.4 million, Canada was the leading supplier of lentils to Greece in 2001. Other foreign competitors included the United States, Portugal, Turkey and China.
• The average global price, over all types and grades, is forecast to increase by approximately 5% over 2002-2003, due to the lower global supply.

Peas

• Peas are used in numerous Greek dishes including rice pilafs and purees. Annual domestic production of peas totals approximately 9300 tonnes.
• Smaller European pea crops have resulted in a significant increase of Canadian feed peas being shipped to Europe in recent years. With exports totalling over $346 000 in 2001, Russia is the leading supplier of peas to the Greek market. Canada followed as the second-largest supplier of peas to Greece with exports of $56 787. Other foreign competitors include Hungary, the Netherlands and Italy.
• Prices for dried peas are expected to be pressured by lower protein meal and feed grain prices, lower food market demand and higher Canadian supply. The average price, over all types, grades and markets, is forecast to decrease this year by 10-15% from 2001-02.

Organic Food

• Greek consumers are health conscious and have an increasing interest in low-cholesterol, low-fat and high-fibre products. As a result of problems with Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) throughout the European Union, consumers are now, more than ever, concerned about food safety and therefore place a premium on quality. As a result, demand for organic products is growing.
• Although organic farming began in Greece in 1982, local production does not come close to meeting consumer demands and therefore imports are required. Domestic organic cultivation accounts for only 1.3% of the country's total agricultural production. Approximately 20 000 hectares are dedicated to organic crop production, which includes only olive trees, grapes, citrus fruit and small quantities of apples, cherries, pears and beans. Over half of the farm land dedicated to organic production is in the Peloponnese. Organic farming has been encouraged by both the EU and Greek agricultural ministries, which recently announced new subsidies for first-time organic farmers.
• Organic products are certified by one of three organizations: DIO⁽²⁾, Bio-Hellas and Physiologiki.

Opportunities

• The Greek market for pulse products, particularly lentils and beans, is poised for growth in the next five years as a result of declining domestic production and an increase in demand, which is stimulated by the reputation of pulses as healthy food. Both processed pulse products, particularly canned products, and raw pulse products that can be processed in Greece's large and growing food-processing industry offer potential to Canadian suppliers. Opportunities for organic pulse products are also available.
• Generic and private brands are also becoming increasingly popular as large supermarket chains use bonuses and other shopper perks to forge brand loyalty. Almost all supermarket chains sell private-label brands. It is estimated that private labels account for 7-8% of total food sales throughout the country; that figure is expected to increase to 10% by 2004.
• Greece's HRI sector is expected to flourish in the coming years as a result of increasing tourism and growing trend of dining away from home. The 2004 Olympic Games⁽³⁾ is expected to have a significant effect on imports as large quantities of key staple ingredients, including pulses, will be required.

Key Players

• Greece is largely self-sufficient in crop production; cotton, corn and tobacco are the dominant crops. The country does, however, rely on imports of meat and dairy products. Agricultural exports are dominated by fruit and vegetables (40%) as well as by hard-grain wheat, olive oil, tobacco and cotton.
• The food industry is one of the most profitable and fastest-growing areas of manufacturing with significant export potential. With over 850 companies, Greece's food and beverage production sector holds a 20.4% share of total Greek exports. Pulses are used in several processed food products including Geniki Trofimon SA's line of frozen lentil and chick pea soups.
• At the global level, Canada is the world's largest exporter of dry peas, lentils and chick peas. It also holds a significant share of the world's exports of dry beans.
• Canada is Greece's top supplier of dried leguminous vegetables. In 2001, pulse imports from Canada totalled over $10.6 million. Other leading foreign competitors include the United States, China, Mexico and Turkey.
• Canada has not yet made an impact on the Greek fresh or chilled leguminous vegetables market. The leading foreign exporters in this sector include Jordan, Egypt, Turkey and Italy.
• Canadian and other foreign pulse producers have recently been faced with a competitive threat from the United States. The new U.S. Farm Bill includes a Loan Deficiency Payment (LDP) for pulses (chick peas, lentils and peas), which means U.S. farmers are guaranteed returns, regardless of the world market price for their pulse crops. Not only are these subsidies significantly higher than the average world price for these crops over the last ten years, but prices are likely to decline even further with the increased production in the United States following the implementation of the new bill. This bill will not only affect Canadian exporters but all producers/exporters of pulse products. While it is unlikely that 2002 sales will be affected because crop acreage for pulses in the United States will remain the same as 2001, future crop years will be affected.

Customers

• The traditional Mediterranean diet includes a high consumption of pulses and vegetables, a variety of fish, low consumption of meat and moderate consumption of dairy products. Although consumption of pulses has fallen approximately 36% in the past 20 years compared to the growing consumption of meat (155%), sugar (118%), dairy (55%) and fast food (213%), sales are on the rise again as consumers become more nutrition conscious.
• Consumer loyalty to well-known brands, which have dominated the market for a number of years, seems to be weakening due to an increase in private labels. Packaging appears to be the secondary factor affecting demand, followed by special offers for various products.
• Food safety is another issue that is important to Greek consumers. Not only are food ingredients carefully scrutinized but food production origin is also an important consideration for Greek consumers. Canada is perceived by many consumers to have a clean and natural environment, which will only benefit Canadian exports.
• The increase in working women has sparked an interest in consumer-ready products such as frozen foods. Although this sector currently offers a small variety of products, it is one of the fastest-growing food segments in Greece. This growth is fuelled by a growing consumers preference for frozen foods as well as an expanding range of products. Greek companies have also introduced frozen traditional entrees, such as bean stew or fasolada, which are aimed at young working women who do not have the time to devote to preparing time-consuming dishes. Sales of frozen foods will also increase as more households get a microwave oven; currently approximately 30% of all households have microwaves.
• There are over 23 000 food stores throughout Greece, including 18 hypermarket chains and 22 medium-sized supermarket chains. The leading chains include AB Vassilopoulos (Delhaize), Arista Supermarkets, Atlantic Supermarkets, Veropoulos, Sklavenitis, AB Veropoulos Group, Metro, Carrefour/Marinopoulos, Hyper (France/Greece); A-B Vassilopoulos/TROFO (Belgium/Greece). There are also 88 cash-and-carry (club/warehouse stores) operations throughout the country. Currently no major supermarket chain in Greece imports pulses directly; instead they are supplied by agents and distributors.
• Although there are no major convenience store chains in Greece, there are approximately 22 000 "mom and pop" stores that cater to consumers' everyday needs. In addition, there are 14 000 kiosks, many of which are actually small general stores.
• Approximately 80% of Greece's import trade is handled through sales agents and distributors. Sales agents operate on a purchase basis without actually importing the product themselves. Distributors operate on a wholesale (and in some cases, retail) basis with exclusive sales rights for certain districts or for the entire country.
• Several buying groups are active in the Greek market. ELOMAS (395 supermarkets) and EL.ET.A. (289 supermarkets), the two leading groups, both plan to place special emphasis on private-label products in the coming years.
• To succeed in the Greek market, it is highly recommended to team up with an experienced agent or joint-venture partner who has experience and an extensive sales and service network in Greece. The Canadian Embassy in Greece is available to assist Canadian exporters in the process of identifying appropriate contacts such as agents, distributors, brokers and importers.

Export Checklist

• As a member of the European Union, Greece does not have separate bilateral trade agreements. EU members share a common agricultural policy, a joint transportation policy, free movement of goods and capital within member states and a common tariff on imported products coming from non-EU countries. While customs duty rates are the same for all 15 EU countries, the value-added tax (VAT) on products and services usually differ from country to country. The VAT in Greece is set at 8% for food items.
• All exports must be accompanied by a standard set of shipping documents. This includes a commercial invoice, export declaration form, pro-forma invoice, bill of lading and certificate of origin. A packing list is not necessary but might help to facilitate clearance. Shipping documents can be presented in English.
• All food imports must adhere to EU phytosanitary regulations and to certification requirements set out by Greek plant authorities. Under EU legislation, Greece must accept food imports from member states provided that the item meets with food laws in the member country. All imports from non-member countries, however, are subject to Greek food laws. Exporters are advised to request regulation information from their importers or from the Canadian Embassy in Greece.
• Labelling and marking requirements are in accord with EU requirements. The following label information is mandatory on all packaging: product name, list of ingredients, net weight or net volume (in metric), directions for storage and use, expiration date, country of origin, name and address of the importer, and lot number. Nutritional labelling is not compulsory except when a nutritional claim is made in the labelling, presentation or advertising of the product or when it is required by another EU directive. Labels must be in Greek. The Greek labels can be attached to the product between clearing customs and being offered for sale. Further information on labelling requirements can be found on the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Web site at http://ats.agr.ca/info/europe/e1429.htm.
• New-to-market food products require pre-importation approval approval by the Supreme Chemical Laboratory. Products complying with the terms, regulations and provisions of the current Food Code do not require a special permit to be imported into and marketed in Greece. Otherwise, an application for clearance, in Greek, should be submitted to the Supreme Chemical Laboratory. It takes about 2-3 months for the tests to be completed. The importer handles all procedures.
• All foodstuffs sold in Greece in glass, metal (excluding tins) or plastic containers must have a self-adhesive plastic or paper safety strip attached to the container so that the lid can only be removed by breaking the seal.
• The European Union has detailed regulations on the production, labelling and inspection of organic products, and maintains a list of countries from which imports of organic products are permitted. Canada does not appear on this list. Until December 31, 2005, countries not on the list may still export organic products to the European Union, provided that the importer furnishes evidence that the imported products were produced in a manner equivalent to EU rules and inspected according to EU-equivalent measures. The case-by-case nature of this approval process creates uncertainty for Canadian exporters. After 2005, imports of organic products must originate in countries appearing on the EU list.
• In an effort to rebuild public confidence in EU food safety regimes, the European Commission has proposed regulations on labelling and traceability. These regulations will require GMOs to be documented on a transformation event basis. Under the new proposal, all food and animal products imported by EU countries must bear a label alerting consumers of the presence of GM ingredients. The new regulations also include measures that impose the separation of GM from conventional crops.
• The European Union is also in the process of developing EU-wide maximum residue levels (MRLs) for most commonly used pesticides. The first series of MRLs was adopted in July 1993. For pesticides not included on that list, individual member state regulations will remain in effect until a harmonized MRL is established. Additional information can be obtained from European Union Online: http://europa.eu.int/comm/food/fs/ph_ps/
  pro/eva/existing/index_en.htm.
• Documents that need to be authenticated, such as certificates of sale and letters authorizing an exporter's local agent or importer to act on their behalf, must first be notarized in Canada. At no cost to the exporter, the notarized documents can be authenticated by sending them to the Authentication and Service of Documents (JLAC) division of the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade.
• For statistical purposes, Canada requires exporters to complete an Export Declaration (Form B13A). It can be filled in and sent electronically to the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency (http://www.ccra-
  adrc.gc.ca/E/pbg/cf/b13abq). See APPENDIX A for the export codes required for B13A.
• The Canadian Special Crops Association (CSCA) establishes trade rules and serves as a forum for exporters, dealers, brokers and processors involved in trading Canada's special crops, including pulses, and can serve as a helpful contact for Canadian exporters to Greece. More information about the CSCA and the services it provides can be obtained on its Web site at http://www.specialcrops.mb.ca.
• The Canadian Grain Commission (CGC) is responsible for the maintenance of quality for Canadian crops including dry peas, lentils, dry beans and chick peas. The maintenance of quality ensures a dependable and safe food commodity for domestic consumption and for exports, and promotes stability and competitiveness for producers, the industry and customers. For further information on grain company licensing, or to access the Official Grain Grading Guide, visit the CGC Web site at http://www.grainscanada.gc.ca.

KEY CONTACTS AND SUPPORT SERVICES

Canadian Government Contacts

Canadian Embassy in Greece
4 Ioannou Ghennadiou St.
GR-115 21 Athens, Greece
Contact: Marianna Saropoulos, Commercial Program Officer
Tel.: (30-210) 727-3351
Fax: (30-210) 727-3460
E-mail: athns-td@dfait-maeci.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.infoexport.gc.ca/gr

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Sir John Carling Building
930 Carling Ave.
Ottawa, ON K1A 0C5
Contact: Sylvain Wilson, International Market Development Officer
Tel.: (613) 759-7726
Fax: (613) 759-7505
E-mail: wilsons@agr.gc.ca
Internet: http://ats.agr.ca

(See also regional contacts below)

Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC)
50 O'Connor St., Suite 1100
Ottawa, ON K1A 0S6
Tel.: 1-800-748-8191 or (613) 996-0034
Fax: (613) 995-2121
Internet: http://www.ccc.ca

Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)
59 Camelot Dr.
Nepean, ON K1A 0Y9
Tel.: (613) 225-2342
Fax: (613) 228-6653
E-mail: cfiamaster@agr.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.cfia-acia.agr.ca

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT)
125 Sussex Dr.
Ottawa, ON K1A 0G2
Internet: http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca

Authentication and Service of Documents (JLAC)
Tel.: (613) 992-6602Fax: (613) 992-2467

Market Support Division (TCM)
Tel.: (613) 995-1773
Fax: (613) 943-1103

Western European Division (REO)
Contact: Serge Charbonneau, Greek Desk
Tel.: (613) 995-4595
Fax: (613) 995-5772
E-mail: serge.charbonneau@dfait-maeci.gc.ca

Export Development Canada (EDC)
151 O'Connor St.
Ottawa, ON K2P 2L8
Tel.: 1-888-332-4593 / (613) 598-2500
Fax: (613) 598-6697
E-mail: export@edc4.edc.ca
Internet: http://www.edc.ca

Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization
3085 Albert St.
Regina, SK S4S 0B1
Tel.: (306) 787-5140
Internet: http://www.agr.gov.sk.ca/default.asp

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada-Regional Trade Contacts

Charlottetown, P.E.I.
Rollin Andrew
Tel.: (902) 566-7315
E-mail: andrewr@agr.gc.ca

Edmonton, Alta.
Lorrie McFadden
Tel.: (780) 495-2119
E-mail: mcfaddenl@agr.gc.ca

Guelph, Ont.
Wayne Parlee
Tel.: (519) 837-5824
E-mail: parleew@agr.gc.ca

Halifax, N.S.
Janet Steele
Tel.: (902) 426-7171
E-mail: steelej@agr.gc.ca

Moncton, N.B.
Bernard Mallet
Tel.: (506) 452-3706
E-mail: malletb@agr.gc.ca

Montreal, Que.
Sandra Gagné
Tel.: (514) 283-3815 ext. 523
E-mail: gagnes@agr.gc.ca

New Westminster, B.C.
Margaret Bancroft
Tel.: (604) 666-3054
E-mail: bancroftm@agr.gc.ca

Regina, Sask.
Jim Atcheson
Tel.: (306) 780-5545
E-mail: atchesonj@agr.gc.ca

St. John's, Nfld.
Al McIsaac
Tel.: (709) 772-0330
E-mail: mcisaaca@agr.gc.ca

Winnipeg, Man.
Fay Abizadeh
Tel.: (204) 983-8622
E-mail: abizadehf@agr.gc.ca

Greek Government Contacts

Greek Embassy in Canada
80 MacLaren St.
Ottawa, ON K2P 0K6
Tel.: (613) 238-6271
Fax: (613) 238-5676
E-mail: embassy@greekembassy.ca
Internet: http://www.greekembassy.ca

Consulate General of Greece-Montreal
1170 Frére André Place, Suite 300
Montreal, QC H3B 3C6
Tel.: (514) 875-2119
Fax: (514) 875-8781
E-mail: info@grconsulatemtl.net
Internet: http://www.grconsulatemtl.net

Consulate General of Greece-Toronto
365 Bloor St. E, Suite 1800
Toronto, ON M4W 3L4
Tel.: (416) 515-0133
Fax: (416) 515-0708
E-mail: toronto.consulate@greekembassy.ca
Internet: http://www.grconsulate.com

Consulate General of Greece-Vancouver
500-688 W Hastings St.
Vancouver, BC V6B 1P1
Tel.: (604) 681-1381
Fax: (604) 681-6656
E-mail: vancouver.consulate@greekembassy.ca

Agricultural Bank of Greece (ATE)
Main Branch
23 Panepistimiou Ave.
GR-105 34 Athens, Greece
Tel.: (30-210) 329-8911
E-mail: ategt@ate.gr
Internet: www.ate.gr/en/index.shtml

General Directorate for Commerce
Ministry of Development
Kanningos Square
GR-10181, Athens, Greece
Tel.: (30-210) 381-6241 to 51
E-mail: gge@gge.gr

General Directorate of the Supreme Chemical Laboratory
16 Tsocha St.
GR-11521 Athens, Greece
Tel.: (30-1) 642-8811
Fax: (30-1) 646-5123

Greek Standards Organization (ELOT)
313 Aharnon Ave.
GR-111 45 Athens, Greece
Tel.: (30-210) 212-0100
Fax: (30-210) 228-3034
E-mail: info@elot.gr
Internet: http://www.elot.gr/home.htm

Ministry of Agriculture
381 Acharnon St., Aghios
Eleftherios
GR-10432 Athens, Greece
Tel.: (30-210) 212-4000
Internet: http://www.minagric.gr/en/index.html

Ministry of Development
80 Michalakopoulou St.
GR-101 92 Athens, Greece
Tel.: (30-210) 748-2770
Fax: (30-210) 770-8003
Internet: http://www.ypan.gr

Ministry of Foreign Affairs
1 Akadimias Ave.
GR- 100 27 Athens, Greece
Tel.: (30-210) 361-1000 or 361-2000 or 361-3000
Fax: (30-210) 368-1717
Internet: http://www.mfa.gr

Ministry of Finance
16 An. Tsocha St., Ambelokipi
GR-11521 Athens, Greece
Tel.: (30-210) 647-9000
Fax: (30-210) 646-5123

Ministry of Health and Welfare
17-19 Aristotelous St.
GR-101 87 Athens, Greece
Tel.: (30-210) 523-2820 to 29
Internet: http://www.ypyp.gr

Greek Industry Contacts

Athens Association of Commercial Agents
15 Voulis St.
GR-105 63 Athens, Greece
Tel.: (30-210) 323-2622
Fax: (30-210) 323-8378
E-mail: aaca@acci.gr

Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry
7 Akademias Str.
GR-106 71 Athens, Greece
Tel.: (30-210) 3604-815 to 9
Fax: (30-210) 361-6408
E-mail: info@acci.gr
Internet: http://www.acci.gr

Federation of Hellenic Food Industries (SEVT)
69 Ethnikis Antistaseos and 2 Eptanisou St.
GR-152 31 Halandri, Athens, Greece
Tel.: (30-210) 671-1177 or 622-3215
Fax: (30-210) 671-1080
E-mail: sevt@hol.gr
Internet: http://www.sevt.gr

Hellenic Foreign Trade Board
86-88 Marinou Antypa St.
GR-163 46 Helioupolis, Athens, Greece
Tel.: (30-210) 998-2100
Fax: (30-210) 996-9100
E-mail: infocenter@hepo.gr
Internet: http://www.hepo.gr/default.asp?Lang=EN

National Agricultural Research Foundation
19 Egialias & Chalepa Strs.
GR-151 25 Maroussi, Athens, Greece
Tel.: (30-210) 817-5410
Fax: (30-210) 684-6700
Internet: http://www.nagref.gr/index_uk.htm

Union of Hellenic Chambers of Commerce and Industry
7 Akademias Ave.
GR-10671 Athens, Greece
Tel.: (30-210) 363-2702
Fax: (30-210) 362-2320
E-mail: hellas@uhcci.gr
Internet: http://www.uhcci.gr

Union of Supermarket Enterprises
7 Andrianou St., Neo Psychiko
GR-154 51 Athens, Greece
Tel.: (30-210) 675-6618
Fax: (30-210) 675-6389
E-mail: sesme@in.gr

Organic Certification Bodies in Greece

Bio-Hellas
11B Kodriktonos St.
GR- 101 34 Athens, Greece
el.: (30-210) 821-1940, -1139 or -1707
Fax: (30-210) 821-1015
E-mail: biohellas@yahoo.gr
Internet: http://www.bio-hellas.gr

Physiologiki Ltd. Inspection and Certification Organisation for Organic Farming Development
24 N. Plastira St.
GR-59 300 Alexandria, Nomos Imathias, Greece
Tel.: (30-330) 24440
Fax: (30-330) 24440
E-mail: fysicert@acn.gr

DIO
38 Aristotelous Ave.
GR-104 33 Athens, Greece
Tel.: (30-210) 822-4384
Fax: (30-210) 821-8117
E-mail: info@dionet.gr
Internet: http://www.dionet.gr

Canadian Industry Associations

Alberta Pulse Growers Commission
4301-50 St.
Leduc, AB T9E 7H3
Tel.: (780) 986-9398
Fax: (780) 980-2570
E-mail: abpulse@telusplanet.net
Internet: http://www.pulse.ab.ca

Canadian Food Exporters Association
885 Don Mills Rd., Suite 301
Toronto, ON M3C 1V9
Tel.: 1-888-227-8848 or (416) 445-3747
Fax: (416) 510-8044/3
E-mail: info@cfea.com
Internet: http://www.cfea.com

Canadian Grain Commission
600-303 Main St.
Winnipeg, MB R3C 3G8
Tel.: 1-800-853-6705 or (204) 983-2770
Fax: (204) 983-2751
E-mail: webadmin@grainscanada.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.cgc.ca

Canadian Special Crops Association
1215-220 Portage Ave.
Winnipeg, MB R3C 0A5
Tel.: (204) 925-3780/1
Fax: (204) 925-3785
E-mail: office@specialcrops.mb.ca
Internet: http://www.specialcrops.mb.ca

Manitoba Pulse Growers Association
38-4th Ave. NE
Carman, MB R0G 0J0
Tel.: (204) 745-6488
Fax: (204) 745-6213
E-mail: mpga@cici.mb.ca

Ontario Bean Producers Marketing Board
4206 Raney Cres.
London, ON N6L 1C3
Tel.: (519) 652-3566
Fax: (519) 652-9607
E-mail: whitebeans@ontariobeans.on.ca
Internet: http://www.ontariobeans.on.ca

Ontario Coloured Bean Growers Association
RR 5
Mitchell, ON N0K 1N0
Tel.: (519) 348-4141
Fax: (519) 348-8165
Internet: http://www.ocbga.com

Pulse Canada
1212-220 Portage Ave.
Winnipeg, MB R3C 0A5
Tel.: (204) 925-4455
Fax: (204) 925-4454
E-mail: president@pulsecanada.com
Internet: http://www.pulsecanada.com

Saskatchewan Pulse Growers
310-111 Research Dr.
Saskatoon, SK S7N 3R2
Tel.: (306) 668-5556
Fax: (306) 668-5557
E-mail: pulse@saskpulse.com
Internet: http://www.saskpulse.com

International Industry Contacts

COCERAL
18 Square de Meeûs
1050 Bruxelles, Belgium
Tel. (32-2) 502-0808
Fax (32-2) 502-6030
E-mail: secretariat@coceral.com
Internet: http://www.coceral.com
Note: Officially recognized representation of the cereals, feedstuffs, oilseeds, olive oil, oils and fats and agri-supply trade in the European Union.

Grain and Feed Trade Association
Room 206, Tower 1
Beijing Bright China Chang An Building
No. 7, Jian Guo Men Nei Da Jie
Beijing 100005 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6518-2273
Fax: (86 10) 6518-2274
Internet: http://www.gafta.com

European Association for Grain Legume Research
12 Avenue George V
F-75008 Paris, France
Tel.: (33-1) 4069-4909
Fax: (33-1) 4723-5872
E-mail: a.schneider-aep@prolea.com
Internet: http://www.grainlegumes.com/aep

International Pulse Trade and Industry Confederation (CICILS)
Bureau 273
Bourse de Commerce
2 rue de Viarmes
75040 Paris Cedex 01 France
Tel.: (33-1) 4236-8435
Fax: (33-1) 4236-4493
E-mail: fnls@legume-sec.com
Internet: http://www.legume-sec.com
(In French)

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Print

AgExporter. "U.S. Exporters: Don't Let It Be All Greek to You," May 1, 2001.

Athens News. "Going Organic-A Blessing or a Curse?" February 25, 2001.

Canada. Agriculture and Agri-food Canada. "Exports to Greece," July 19, 2002.

Dun & Bradstreet. Exporters' Encyclopaedia. "Greece," 2002.

Euromonitor. "Packaged Foods in Greece," October 2001.

Kathimerini English Edition. "Meat and Sugar Win Favor in Greek Diet," October 20, 2000.

------. "Chickpeas as Animal Feed," March 27, 2001.

------. "Global Prize for Prespes," April 25, 2001.

------. "Greece's Organic Products on Show," October 5, 2001.

Los Angeles Times. "Land and Sea For Flavours of Greece," October 7, 2001.

Electronic

Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development. "Europe-Greece," April 26, 2002. Downloaded from http://www.agric.gov.ab.ca/marketnews/europe/greece.html on July 16, 2002.

Antonio Foods. "Great White Kidney Beans: Elephant and Giant," 2002. Downloaded from http://antonio.gr/whitekidneybeansen.htm on July 15, 2002.

Australia. Australian Trade Commission. "Food and Beverage to Greece," 2002. Downloaded from http://www.austrade.gov.au/ci_display/0%
2C1257%2CContentGroup
%253Dcountryindust%2526ContentType%253D%
2526MetaRID%253DPWB1422328%2C00.html on July 11, 2002.

CABI Publishing. Field Crop Abstracts. "Grain Legumes," 2002. Downloaded from http://www.cabi-publishing.org/bookshop/ReadingRoom/
0851994679/4679ch1.pdf on July 11, 2002.

Canada. Agriculture and Agri-food Canada. "Greece: AgriFood Country Profile-Statistical Overview," August 2001. Downloaded from
http://atn-riae.agr.ca/info/europe/e3201.htm on July 15, 2002.

------. "Dried Peas: Situation and Outlook," September 28, 2001. Downloaded from http://www.agr.gc.ca/policy/winn/biweekly/
English/biweekly/
volume14/v14n17e.htm on May 28, 2002.

------. "Pulse and Special Crops Outlook," June 5, 2002. Downloaded from http://www.agr.gc.ca/policy/winn/biweekly/
English/scsd/2002/jul2002sceb.htm on July 11, 2002.

------. "Lentils: Situation and Outlook," June 7, 2002. Downloaded from http://www.agr.gc.ca/mad-dam/English/
biweekly/volume15/v15n11ea.htm on July 7, 2002.

Canada. Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade. "Focus on Greece: A Sectoral Snapshot," February 2001. Downloaded from http://www.infoexport.gc.ca/ie-en/Display
Document.jsp?did=5678 on July 7, 2002.

Corporate Information. "Greece-Industry Overview: Diversified Food," 2001. Downloaded from http://www.corporateinformation.com/
grsector/Food.html on July 11, 2002.

Options Méditerranéennes. "Chickpea Production in Greece," 2001. Downloaded from http://ressources.ciheam.org/
om/a09/91605022.pdf on July 22, 2002.

Souptale. "Soup in Greece," 2001. Downloaded from http://www.soupsong.com/sgreece.html on July 15, 2002.

Statpub.com. EC-Feed Bean Production Summary, May 7, 2002. Downloaded from http://www.statpub.com/stat/news/2002/5/
12279.phtml on July 24, 2002.

------. "Greece-Selected Specialty Crop Imports," June 24, 2002. Downloaded from http://www.statpub.com/stat/exports/4840.html on July 24, 2002.

United States. Central Intelligence Agency. "World Factbook: Greece," 2001. Downloaded from http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/
factbook/geos/gr.html on July 22, 2002.

United States. Department of Agriculture. "Greece: Retails Food Sector Report 2000," December 5, 2000. Downloaded from http://www.fas.usda.gov/gainfiles/200012/60679018.pdf on July 15, 2002.

------. "U.S. Exporters: Don't Let it Be All Greek to You," May 2001. Downloaded from http://www.fas.usda.gov/info/agexporter/
2001/may/may01.pdf on July 15, 2002.

Western Producer. "Peas Too Pricey for Feed Purposes," December 7, 2001. Downloaded from http://www.producer.com/articles/
20011206/market_quotas/
20011206mkt03.html on July 15, 2002.

------. "United States Closer to Subsidizing Pulse Production," February 22, 2002. Downloaded from http://www.producer.com/articles/20020221/market_quotas/
20020221mkt02.html on July 15, 2002.

OTHER REFERENCE MATERIAL

Useful Internet Sites

2004 Olympic Games: Opportunities for Canadian Businesses-Athens, Greece: http://www.infoexport.gc.ca/ie-en/Display
Document.jsp?did=9007

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada-Market Analysis Division: http://www.agr.gc.ca/policy/winn/biweekly

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada-Special Crops:
http://www.agr.ca/misb/spcrops

Agri-Food Trade Services: http://ats.agr.ca

Alberta Agriculture Food and Rural Development. Special Crops Newsletter: http://www.agric.gov.ab.ca/crops/special/scnews/index.html

Athens 2004: http://www.athens.olympic.org

Business 2005: http://www.business2005.gr/ec_home.asp?lg=EN

CanadaEuropa: http://www.canadaeuropa.gc.ca

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade:
http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca

Europa: http://www.europa.eu.int

ExportSource: http://exportsource.gc.ca

Foodlink.com: http://www.food-ink.com/web/food_link_en/
acquisti/vetrine/vetrina/sellers_list.asp

Greece Now: http://www.greece.gr/index.htm

Industry Canada-Strategis: http://strategis.ic.gc.ca

InfoExport: http://www.infoexport.gc.ca

Tenders Electronic Daily: http://ted.eur-op.eu.int

U.S. Department of Agriculture: http://www.usda.gov

1. All monetary amounts are expressed in Canadian dollars, unless otherwise indicated. The conversion rate to Canadian dollars is based on IDD Information Services, Tradeline, July 2002.

2. For contact information regarding key organizations mentioned in this report, see Key Contacts and Support Services.

3. For more information on business opportunities, see 2004 Olympic Games: Opportunities for Canadian Businesses at
http://www.infoexport.gc.ca/ie-en/Display
Document.jsp?did=9007.