Sardinia's "DOP Economy" continues to be worth over half a billion euros, despite having recorded a 6.5% decline in one year.
This is what emerges from the XXIII ISMEA-QUALIVITA Report presented in Rome, which provides a snapshot (2024 data) of the situation in the food and wine production sector with PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) and PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) brands, of which there are over 40 on the island.
The value of Sardinian PDO and PGI products, the report states, is equal to 548 million euros , as mentioned, a decrease compared to 2023 (when the value was equal to 586 million euros).
Specifically, the PDO and PGI food sector (9 branded products) employs 15,901 workers in Sardinia and is worth €405 million , placing the island, despite an 8.5% decline year-over-year, sixth among Italian regions in terms of impact. The Sardinian branded food sector is driven by Pecorino Romano, which recorded an impact of €338 million.
The decline (-0.2%) was more modest for the wine sector (33 branded products), which sees 2,856 operators active at the regional level and is worth a total of 143 million euros.
Among the provinces most closely linked to the economy of the PDO and PGI sector, Sassari stands out (193 million euros), followed by South Sardinia (138 million euros), Nuoro (134 million euros) and Oristano (77 million euros).
At the national level, 2024 confirmed itself as a year of growth for the PDO economy in fourteen Italian regions, with three leading the way: Veneto (+2.2%), Emilia-Romagna (+3%), and Friuli-Venezia Giulia (+8.1%) . Significant signs of decline, however, came not only from Sardinia but also from Molise (-17%).
Looking at Italian data as a whole, the PDO-PGI sector in our country will reach €20.7 billion in production value in 2024 (+3.5% year-on-year), recording a 25% growth compared to 2020 and contributing 19% of the total national agri-food turnover.
"The results of the PDO economy confirm, once again, the strength and uniqueness of our agri-food system," commented Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida . "Geographical Indications," the minister added, "guarantee the protection of know-how and place Italy as a world leader in the number of products. Made in Italy doesn't just mean made in Italy, but good, healthy, affordable, and recognizable through this system that certifies its authenticity."
"The data in this report," emphasizes Cesare Mazzetti, president of the Qualivita Foundation , "confirm that Geographical Indications represent not only an advanced model of economic development, but also a successful policy for our agricultural and food production system."