Chapter 19 - Sustainability, resilience, and disparities in regional value chains: reframing hegemonic concepts from the ‘rural’ perspective of Greek agro-food sector

Abstract

This chapter provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitiveness and sustainability of the Greek agri-food sector, spanning from its integration into the European Economic Community (EEC), now the European Union (EU), to its current position within global value chains (GVCs). Initially, it discusses Greece’s efforts to align with the EEC and the subsequent challenges faced during the first and second periods of integration. It highlights the impact of economic policies and Greece’s accession to the Eurozone on the sector’s growth and international competitiveness. Moreover, the chapter delves into the significance of the Greek agri-food sector within the national economy, emphasizing structural deficiencies, funding from the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), and the sector’s contribution to employment and GDP. It also explores the country’s incorporation into GVCs and the challenges of expanding exports amidst heightened competition. Furthermore, the chapter examines Greece’s intention to promote sustainability, innovation, and social inclusion in agriculture. It outlines efforts to enhance competitiveness, improve environmental sustainability, and support rural development. Lastly, it discusses strategies to improve the extroversion of the agri-food sector, emphasizing the importance of exports, intra-community trade, and the role of processing industries in the agri-food sector. It concludes with insights into the sector’s resilience during economic crises and the need for ongoing efforts to sustain competitiveness and foster innovation in Greek agriculture.