Gozo Regional Council starts candidacy bid for European Region of Gastronomy in 2026

The Gozo Regional Council has officially applied for the European Gastronomical Region for 2026. The application is being spearheaded by the Gozo Regional Council to promote Gozo as a destination for food lovers alike.

On 27 April the Gozo Regional Council president, Dr Samuel Azzopardi signed the formal agreement between the Region and the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism in order to officially submit the island’s bid for the European

Region of Gastronomy in 2026.

The bid as spearheaded by the Gozo Regional Council has also garnered support from various stakeholders in Gozo. Dr Azzopardi emphasised that it is through projects like these that Gozo can improve itself as a unique tourist destination banking on its distinct characteristics. Dr Azzopardi stated: “This project will be a great improvement for Gozo as we will further preserve and elevate the gastronomical identity of the island. For this bid to succeed, it is imperative to have the support of key stakeholders in the region and I am optimistic that we will work together harmoniously and efficiently towards this shared goal.”

Moreover, the stakeholders will collaborate with the ultimate objective of creating a sustainable future rooted in cultural and culinary diversity, with the aim of positioning the region as a leading candidate for the Best World Region of Gastronomy 2030.

Moving forward, the Gozo Regional Council is in the process of drafting up a Bid Book that will present the characteristics of the region’s gastronomical identity to the IGCAT, for it to be considered. The Council welcomes any feedback or ideas, which can be communicated at regjunghawdex.dlg@gov.mt

IGCAT judges will be in Gozo in the next few months in order to analyse and judge the island’s culinary identity.