Belgian and Hungarian producer organisations in the fruit and vegetable sector:: Comparison of experiences

The paper focuses on the role of Producer Organisations (POs) in the fruit and vegetable sector in Hungary and in Belgium. The aim of the research is to evaluate the operation of the Hungarian POs and to compare the results with the Belgian ones based on the perception of the respondents. Findings are drawn from a survey among members and leaders of POs. Our findings illustrate that Hungarian PO members' and PO leaders' perception significantly differ on the following constructs: satisfaction with the Common Market Organisation, environmental friendly production and willingness to cooperate. The most striking difference between Hungarian and Belgian respondents was demonstrated by the higher willingness to cooperate in Belgium and the higher innovation rates in the trading activities.