Canary Islands Cheese Fair Highlights Challenges Facing Artisanal Farming Sector

The 15th Canary Islands Cheese Fair, held this weekend at the Pinolere Ethnographic Park in La Orotava, has once again brought the future of the region’s agricultural sector to the forefront of local politics. Organizers say the event is more than just a marketplace for thirty local cheese producers; it serves as a vital health check for the archipelago’s artisanal farming industry.

Supported by the Canary Islands Government, the Tenerife Island Council, and the local city council, the fair provided a platform for officials to discuss the challenges facing rural communities. Regional President Fernando Clavijo emphasized that the survival of these farms depends on securing European funding—specifically through the POSEI program—to offset the high costs of island life and global economic instability. Meanwhile, Island President Rosa Dávila highlighted the essential role of women in livestock farming, noting that they have historically been overlooked in industry statistics and recognition.

Beyond the politics, the fair is designed to educate. By showcasing thirty native breeds and offering everything from technical tastings to traditional shepherd’s jump demonstrations, the event aims to reconnect urban residents with rural life. The Pinolere Cultural Association believes this connection is crucial for attracting a new generation to the industry, which not only provides jobs but also protects the islands' landscapes and cultural identity.

This year’s program honored the Association of Artisanal Cheese Producers of Tenerife for their work in promoting the island’s high-quality dairy products. With fifty exhibitors featuring local wines, craft beers, and cheeses, the fair continues to champion the "zero-kilometer" model as a key strategy for strengthening the local economy.