LAG “Bura” is the first LAG in Croatia to enter into the implementation of international cooperation 19.3.2. PRR RH 2014-2020 with Rural Flavours project. Rural flavors is a transnational project between the LAG Bura and partners from Finland, Cyprus, Estonia, Portugal and Spain. The project aims at promoting and networking local producers, sharing knowledge and spreading market potentials. The project implementation was held in Torres Novas, Portugal, from 27 September 2018. until 01.10.2018. Our representatives in Portugal:
* in the category of local producer “OPG Klečina”, mrs. Zvijezdana Klečina presented her products of marinated mushrooms in olive oil, vinegar and spices.
* Natalija Andačić, Director of National Park “Paklenica”, presented the projects of the national park, the diversity and beauty of the Velebit region, and the attractive forms of active tourism and experiences offered by the National Park.
* in the category of rural ambassador of the Association of Homeland “Janko Mitrović” association, which promotes the preservation of tradition and valorization of the Bukovica region. Mr. Ivica Mitrović attracted great interest and positive reactions by making Prisnac in main square in Torres Novas.
The LAG team has presented a range of products and tourist destinations. We promoted cured meats, aromatic oils, honey and honey sparkling wine, olive oil, cheeses and wine that were excellently received. The conclusion is that the products of our rural area are very competitive and interesting in the European market. The LAG participated with the project partners at the “Feira de Frutos Secos” fair, and a seminar on Rural Products and Local Tourism.
We had the opportunity to be introduced the attractive products of our project partners. Cyprus presented itself with sweets and sweet wine; Spain with Sauces, Portugal with dry fruit, Chorizo salami, tomato jam, Spain with an innovative way of packing fruits and selling fruits. Special attention was also made by Finland with inspirational wool products and the “adventure” park Seikkailupuisto Huikee.
We have seen examples of good practice in the very similar area of the ADIRN LAG, such as We Plant, which deals with organic production of berry fruit and final products (jams, spices, teas).
In May 2019, LAG “Bura” will host the project partners and organize the agro-fair, and in August our representatives in three categories will have the opportunity to present their products in Estonia within the “Hiiumaa Cafe Days” fair. The goal of the Rural Flavours is to promote the quality system, international promotion of all LAG activities, to create recognizable products that will compete equally on the international market. This way opens the way to the international market as well as the possibility of cooperation of interested stakeholders of this project, says project coordinator
Ana Škara. The ultimate goal of this project is to network as many local producers from all partner countries, to present tourism potentials, to highlight cultural and traditional values. Particular attention will be given to expanding business cooperation on future joint projects that would bring together “small” stakeholders. Partners on the project are Paphos District Development Agency “Aphrodite”, Cyprus Development Agency of Lemesos LTD, LAG Karhuseu from Finland, Comarca de La Cara from Spain, LAG Hiiumaa from Estonia and LAG ADIRN from Portugal.