It is my great pleasure to open this year\u2019s Tallinn FoodFair \u2013 a place where the best of Estonian food, innovation and international cooperation come together. September is also Estonian Food Month, but our food deserves attention all year round, as it is pure and honest and carries our culture forward.<\/p>\n
In recent months, Estonia\u2019s food sector has been strongly affected by African swine fever. This is not just an issue for pig farmers \u2013 its impact reaches across the entire food production chain, reminding us of the importance of biosecurity, crisis prevention and managing consequences. It is our shared responsibility to safeguard domestic food production as well as consumer trust.<\/p>\n
We must also think about food security \u2013 the ability to ensure sufficient, high-quality food for everyone, at all times and under all circumstances. Every crisis, whether linked to disease outbreaks, weather or geopolitics, reminds us how essential domestic production, strong cooperation and science-based approaches are. Here at the fair, we see the companies and people who uphold Estonia\u2019s food security. We all have a role to play, whether as producers or as informed consumers.<\/p>\n
Consumer choices are especially important. When we choose domestic products or support local businesses, we are directly supporting our people, jobs and economy. When we choose responsibly produced food, we send a clear message that environmentally friendly and ethical production matters. Every purchase shapes the kind of food system we build. Conscious consumption is not just a trend \u2013 it is a shared responsibility.<\/p>\n
Tallinn FoodFair is also an international event, and I warmly welcome our many foreign guests. Your presence enriches our food culture and builds new bridges for cooperation. Export capacity, new flavours and cross-border partnerships are key to placing Estonian food firmly on the world map. Our food is more than a product \u2013 it is a story about our land, our people and our values. I encourage you to share these stories and to help develop them further together.<\/p>\n
My heartfelt thanks go to the organisers and to everyone who contributes to the development of Estonian food. I wish you an inspiring fair filled with new ideas, strong partnerships and unforgettable taste experiences.<\/p>\n
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