MOVING Project - Saffron value chain resilience in Crete mountain region

The MOVING project, funded by the EU Horizon 2020 programme, enhances resilience and sustainability in European mountain regions through stakeholder-driven policy development. Focused on the Rethymnon region in Crete, it examines the local saffron (zafferano) value chain involving over 200 families and supporting enterprises. Key challenges include rising energy costs, demographic decline, lack of institutional support, and competition from imports. The project identifies risks to economic and cultural sustainability and recommends interventions such as quality certification, international promotion, tourist engagement, and institutional training. Findings inform regional and European policy to strengthen mountain value chains and preserve cultural identity.