Better education, assistance from scholars and support from the state are the three key factors that are necessary for improving postharvest activities in Macedonian agriculture.

The business sector must be included in the process of advancing agricultural practices, Israeli experts urge. The quality of fresh fruit and vegetables will not only improve the competition at home, it will also enable better promotion on foreign markets.

"Shortcomings have been detected in calibration, storage, cooling, packaging... An overall approach is necessary for better postharcest activities," Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management Ljupco Dimovski said Tuesday after a meeting with Israeli experts.

Brett Hickson of the Israeli Ministry of Agriculture stressed the need for cooperation between all those involved.

"The Government plays a vital role, however the private sector needs to be included in the process as well. Export and promotion of Macedonian products in foreign countries must be achieved. Improvement of quality and standards is the only way," he said.