Estimation of the Offer of Organic Products in Slovenia: Exploratory Analysis

In one national and one EU research project, the offer and selling paths of organic products in Slovenia with special emphasis on domestic products have been investigated. Organic production volume has been estimated; market paths, their share and importance, and demand for organic products have been investigated. Although organic sector has been growing to reach 2% farms and 4,7 % total utilized agricultural area (end 2004), only 15 - 20% of farms are producing for the organic market. Main weaknesses are insufficient production esp. for most demanded products (fresh vegetables and fruits, grain, processed products), lack of market organisation of producers, difficulties in the marketing of meat and meat products, dispersed and limited production, low consumers’ awareness. A significant demand and potentials for of sales domestic organic products have been identified. Areas of policy measures have been suggested to enhance the development of organic production and market.