Lithuania is determined to address the agri-food challenges and is one of EIT-Food’s RIS countries

The agri-food sector, a solid pillar of the Lithuanian economy

Agriculture plays a significant role in Lithuania’s economy. In 2015, the agriculture offered workplaces for nearly one tenth of the employed population (ca. 9.2% of total employment). However, the country’s agriculture is challenged by significant migration and rural area depopulation.

The accession to European Union in 2004 contributed to the rapid increase of organic farming and the rate is growing.

Room for Improvement

Lithuanian agri-food  sector needs technological modernization and cost-effective technologies,  as  well as shifting toward high quality foods. It is essential to facilitate constant innovation to foster internationalization and competitiveness. In order to strengthen the country’s research potential, EIT Food can help in widening international cooperation of local universities and researchers.

EIT Food Hub in Lithuania: Kaunas University of Technology

Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) is a leading Lithuanian university providing a wide range of studies, closely cooperating with business and implementing research and development projects. Food Institute and the Department of Food Science and Technology of KTU plays a crucial role in the context of food science in Lithuania. In 2012 KTU opened the first academic start-up incubator KTU Startup Space, where more than 70 startups were launched, including agri-food start-ups.