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The AgriFusion initiative was a small-scale effort aimed at fostering discussions on challenges and opportunities in Malta’s agricultural sector. Led by The Veg Box Ltd and supported by the PoliRuralPlus Outreach Call, AgriFusion provided a platform for exchanging ideas on sustainability, community involvement, and the evolving landscape of local farming.

Key Insights from the AgriFusion activities held in early 2025 brought together stakeholders from various countries, including South Africa, Poland, Argentina, and Malta. Discussions touched on key themes influencing agriculture and food consumption.

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  1. Consumer Perspectives on Organic and Local Produce
    • Interest in organic food and homegrown vegetables is growing, though challenges remain in terms of accessibility, pricing, and consumer trust in certification systems.
    • The aesthetics of produce often play a significant role in purchasing decisions, sometimes overshadowing sustainability considerations.
  1. Challenges Facing Farmers and Agricultural Sustainability
    • Despite perceptions of limited land availability, some farmers noted that land does exist but requires resources and labour to be utilized effectively.
    • Some participants highlighted the potential of regenerative farming as a means of improving sustainability.
    • The challenges of Malta’s small size and insularity were raised, particularly in relation to supply chains and generational shifts in farming.
  1. Policy and Community-Led Discussions
    • Strengthening consumer-farmer relationships could help promote local produce and support small-scale farmers.
    • There was discussion on the role of local councils in facilitating access to small plots for community-based agriculture.
    • Education and awareness initiatives were mentioned as possible ways to encourage younger generations to engage with agriculture.

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Future Possibilities While AgriFusion was a short-term and small-scale initiative, it sparked discussions on potential areas for further exploration. As AcrossLimits continues its involvement within the PoliRuralPlus project, topics such as regenerative farming, local supply chains, and agricultural policy may be areas of interest for future efforts.

Though no single initiative can address all the challenges facing the sector, AgriFusion provided a space for dialogue and highlighted the importance of continued collaboration in shaping the future of agriculture in Malta.