20/05/2009
Prefecture of Evros: Economy

Stefania Christianou Source: ILSP © ILSP

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The economy of Evros depends on agriculture and animal husbandry. Agriculture mainly consists of grains, pulses, fruits and vegetables, as well as the systematic cultivation of certain plants used in industry such as the sunflower and the sesame, which are produced in the region of Orestiada. The production of sugar canes supplies the sugar factory in north Evros. In north Evros and in Tychero the asparagus plant is systematically cultivated. Mulberry trees, almond trees, apple trees and pear trees are also cultivated, whereas in Samothrace olive trees grow. Animal husbandry plays a significant role in the economy of the prefecture and it is under great development. Fishing is of equal importance. The Evros River is the biggest in Greece, the richest in fish and many fish farms operate in the Evros Delta.
In recent years the tertiary sector of economy has been under development and a large part of the population, especially young people, work on the service sector. This tendency is directed by the touristic development and the construction of new hotels. In the areas of the natural reserves, namely the forest of Dadia and the biotope of Evros, new units of agricultural tourism have been created and eco-touristic centres attracting visitors from Greece and abroad.
Some of the famous local products are the pies, the fruit preserves and jams, the rusks of Samothrace, the royal jelly and the fruit preserves (like the renowned 'praousto') made in the island. Samothrace is well-known for its cuisine with kid dishes. The Agricultural Cooperative of Women of Dadia produces hand-made pasta (lasagna, white and sour trachanas, couscous) and hand-made pastry. In the Centre of Handicraft and Home Industry in Fylakto women make towels, napkins, laces, rugs, organdies, tablecloths and bags. The Agricultural Cooperative of Common Production in Tychero organizes the production of strawberries, asparagus, cherry trees, plum trees, quince trees and supervises the packaging and exportation of the produce.