These grants aim to reinforce environmental sustainability and the competitiveness of the Aragonese horticultural sector.
The Department of Agriculture, Livestock and Food of the Government of Aragon has authorized the payment of 15,219,458 euros to the Organizations of Fruit and Vegetable Producers (OPFH) corresponding to the Operational Programs for 2024. The disbursement, to be completed by October 15, 2025, is part of the Strategic Plan for the Common Agricultural Policy (PEPAC) 2023-2027 and is 100% funded by the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (FEAGA).
The grants are aimed at enhancing environmental sustainability and competitiveness in the Aragonese horticultural sector, driving investments in modernization, digitalization, marketing, and environmental management. According to Amparo Cuéllar, General Director of Innovation and Agri-Food Promotion, «these programs are a key tool for our producer organizations to continue growing, innovating, and ensuring the future of the sector,» combining profitability, sustainability, and social commitment. Cuéllar emphasized that the grants «represent direct support for producer organizers who are committed to doing things right: planning, investing, and improving.»
Distribution of Investments Executed in 2024
32% of the budget was allocated to productive investments, including plantations, machinery, vehicles, irrigation infrastructure, and improvement of farms. 15% was dedicated to marketing and prevention of occupational hazards, covering investments in horticultural centers, participation in fairs, promotional actions, training, certifications, and technical advice.
1% was invested in research and innovative measures focused on sustainable production methods, while 6% was directed towards crisis management, especially for the free distribution of products to food banks and social entities.
The largest portion, at 45%, was assigned to environmental actions, highlighting improvements in energy efficiency and the use of renewable energies, prevention of damage caused by adverse climate phenomena, promotion of varieties adapted to climate change, advice and environmental certifications, organic farming, and alternative pest control methods. Finally, 2% was allocated to general management and monitoring expenses for the programs.
Strategic Importance of the Aragonese Horticultural Sector
The Aragonese horticultural sector constitutes one of the fundamental economic pillars of the community, with particular weight in regions such as Bajo Cinca, La Litera, Valdejalón, the Ebro Valley, and Bajo Aragón, where it generates thousands of jobs and decisively contributes to the organization of the territory.
Aragon is the main exporter of stone fruit in Spain, especially peaches, nectarines, and cherries, products that reach markets across Europe and destinations as diverse as the Middle East, Thailand, and China. In 2024, Aragonese horticultural exports exceeded 250 million euros, consolidating the community as a benchmark in quality, food safety, and international projection, thanks to the collaborative efforts of producers, cooperatives, and producer organizations. The fruit and vegetable subsector recorded a 6.8% increase in its value.
The Department of Agriculture, Livestock and Food reinforces its commitment to the Aragonese OPFH, supporting them in the implementation of operational programs that provide the capacity for adaptation and continuous improvement to advance sustainability, competitiveness, and stability in the sector.
