The fair, considered the most important in the high-end food segment, is held at Ifema until Thursday, offering Canarian producers a crucial platform to expand their presence in new markets. Featured products include avocados, wines, cheeses, olive oil, salt, fish, and artisanal creations such as craft beer, jams, mojos, and sweets.
“"The effort we make to be here is a help to reach a lot of people that would otherwise be practically impossible."
An example of success is the craft beer Vulcan Aloe Lanzarote, brewed in Lanzarote with mineral water from La Palma. Its master brewer, Ernesto Pérez, highlights the fair's importance for small producers looking to enter the Peninsula market, despite the logistical challenges of transporting goods from the islands.
Canarian avocado has also been a protagonist, being the first variety in the world to obtain a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI). Francisco Echandi, president of the Association of Producers of Tropical and Subtropical Fruits of the Canary Islands, explains that the unique characteristics of the soil, climate, and slow maturation process on the tree give Canarian avocado superior quality and a high percentage of dry matter, distinguishing it globally.
During the fair, the first Mexican Taco Championship by IGP Aguacate de Canarias, Tacomanía, was held, where professional chefs competed using this product. The award went to Daniel Martínez, from Tatemado restaurant in Madrid. However, for Canarian avocado to be exported to the Peninsula, its production needs to increase, as the current 4 million kilos per year are entirely consumed within the archipelago.
Canarian cheeses also have a strong presence, with five vying to be named the best in Spain at the GourmetQuesos championship. Alejandra Hernández, manager of the El Hierro Livestock Cooperative, emphasizes that participating in the fair is a "showcase" for non-capital islands, allowing them to display the quality and artistry of their producers.
“"constitutes a great opportunity to consolidate the presence of the Islands' differentiated quality products in foreign markets."
The Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Food Sovereignty, Narvay Quintero, stressed that this participation is key to consolidating the presence of Canarian products in international markets, a strategy of the regional executive to support the primary sector. Luis Arráez, director of the Canarian Institute of Agri-Food Quality (ICCA), added that Canarian products are increasingly valued, as evidenced by numerous awards and international sales.
