“We are here because Crimea is in great need for development. The climate here is similar to what they have in Tunisia, that’s why we want to grow here the very same products we cultivate in Tunisia. We want to create a 500 hectare agro-industrial park in Crimea,” Francesco Lo Iudice, a member of the Italian delegation, said after meeting with Crimean Deputy Prime Minister Ruslan Balbek on Saturday.
The investors plan to find agricultural technology companies from Italy, which are interested in building greenhouses, in vine-growing, cattle farming and processing of agricultural products in Crimea.
They said they were not afraid of sanctions because their produce would be sold in Russia, a much cheaper option than bringing in the same produce all the way from Tunisia.
“Trading with Russia from Crimea is way cheaper because you have neither customs clearance nor logistical hurdles to deal with,” Francesco Lo Iudice said.
“The investors will have direct contact with the top Crimean officials to avoid red tape and feel comfortable,” the Crimean deputy prime minister said.
During their five-day stay on the peninsula, the Italians will visit local wineries and farms and will sign a memorandum on cooperation with the Crimean government.
