Cretan B2B in Brussels
1 min 58 sec read
The first international edition of the pioneering and award‑winning Pancretan Forum for the Promotion of Cretan Products was held on 1 June 2026 in Brussels, marking a decisive move toward strengthening the island’s export footprint. The four Chambers of Commerce of Crete chose the heart of Europe as the Forum’s first major expansion outside Greece, aiming to accelerate the outward orientation of businesses producing and processing authentic Cretan agri‑food products.
The event took place in Rosières, just ten minutes from Brussels, at Foster Farm — a venue that combines modern infrastructure with a natural setting and easy access from all regions of Belgium. Approximately forty selected Belgian buyers from the food and beverage sector, including importers, wholesalers, retailers, distributors and hospitality professionals, met with representatives of thirty‑four Cretan enterprises. The Forum created a focused environment for meaningful commercial dialogue, highlighting the quality, authenticity and export potential of Cretan products.
Antonis Rokakis, President of the Chania Chamber of Commerce and Vice President of the Central Union of Chambers of Greece, emphasized that the joint presence of Crete’s Chambers in Brussels represents a coordinated effort to claim a stronger share in international markets. As he noted, Belgium and the wider Benelux region serve as a gateway to Northern Europe — a mature and demanding market that values origin, quality and authenticity. The meetings with carefully selected buyers and industry professionals confirmed that Cretan products possess the prestige and potential to stand among the top offerings in the European market, while strengthening branding, innovation and international partnerships remains a strategic priority for the future of Cretan entrepreneurship.
Evangelos Karkanakis, President of the Heraklion Chamber of Commerce, emphasized that Crete’s presence in Brussels was not symbolic but strategic. As he noted, Crete is not only a world‑class tourism destination; it is a place of production, quality, innovation and authenticity. Local businesses continue to invest in processing, extroversion and the creation of products capable of competing in demanding international markets. The Forum’s expansion abroad confirms that Cretan producers are ready to claim a stronger position in Europe’s value chains.
This initiative builds on a well‑established institution. The Pancretan Forum has been held for fourteen consecutive years in Crete and for three years in Athens, evolving into one of Greece’s most effective mechanisms for connecting producers with buyers. During its most recent edition in March 2025, the Forum recorded 19,585 targeted B2B meetings, with the participation of 249 hotels and 255 producers and artisans — figures that reflect its credibility and impact.
The Brussels edition was supported by the Region of Crete and the Central Union of Chambers of Greece and was held under the auspices of the Embassy of Greece in Belgium. The presence of institutional representatives and professionals from both countries underscored that Crete now possesses a mature production ecosystem capable of expanding into European markets with confidence.
The 1st EXPO Pancretan Forum in Brussels was more than a commercial event. It was a statement of extroversion — a clear demonstration that Crete can transform its quality, heritage and authenticity into a competitive advantage on the global stage. It also marked the beginning of a new strategic trajectory, opening pathways for the next generation of Cretan enterprises to grow beyond national borders.
