IFEAT 2026 Finland Focus Study Tour

Why Finland in August?

August provides a unique opportunity to observe Finland’s caraway industry at peak operational activity. The visit coincides with the harvest period, enabling delegates to follow the value chain in real time, from field harvesting through to industrial-scale processing.

Set within Finland’s distinctive agricultural landscape and extended daylight conditions, the programme offers a clear, context-rich understanding of how environmental factors influence production, efficiency, and quality outcomes

What is a Focus Study Tour?

The Focus Study Tour format is designed to deliver a concentrated, high-value learning experience within a short timeframe.

The programme prioritises direct engagement with production sites, technical processes, and industry stakeholders, while maintaining an efficient structure that minimises unnecessary travel and logistics.

By focusing activities within the Vaasa region, participants benefit from a cohesive and in-depth exploration of a single origin and supply chain.

Cost

The Study Tour is priced at €1,300 per participant, reflecting its streamlined format and strong emphasis on technical visits and industry access.

The fee includes two nights’ accommodation in Vaasa, all meals and refreshments, and local transportation during the programme. Airport transfers are not included; delegates are responsible for arranging their own transport between the airport and the hotel.

Objectives

The Finland Focus Study Tour has several objectives:

• Provide first-hand, field-based insight into caraway and coriander production systems
• Examine how regional growing conditions influence yield, quality, and consistency
• Highlight practical and scalable approaches to sustainable agriculture
• Present applied on-farm trials and input strategies
• Demonstrate industrial processing, including cleaning, grading, and steam distillation
• Explore integration of renewable energy within production and processing
• Illustrate the full pathway from raw material to finished ingredient
• Facilitate direct exchange with farmers, processors, and technical experts
• Enable focused peer interaction within a professional setting

Airport Arrival and Departure

The Study Tour is based entirely in the Vaasa region.

Participants should travel to Vaasa Airport (VAA) via Helsinki Airport (HEL) or Stockholm (ARN), with regular connecting flights available.

Rail options are also possible.

Delegates are requested to arrive by 13:30 on 6 August. The tour begins and concludes in Vaasa, and departures may be scheduled after 16:00 on 8 August.

All local transport during the programme is included.  Airport transfers are not included; delegates are responsible for arranging their own transport between the airport and the hotel.

Weather Insights

In early August, the Vaasa region typically experiences mild and comfortable summer conditions, with daytime temperatures ranging from approximately 18–22°C. Evenings can be cooler, so light layers are recommended. The long daylight hours provide extended time for field visits, although occasional light rain is possible. Rainwear and umbrellas are recommended, along with sturdy shoes suitable for field conditions. Mosquitoes may be present, particularly in the evenings and near wooded or coastal areas, so insect repellent is recommended.

Travel information

Insurance

Participants are strongly advised to arrange comprehensive travel insurance (including medical cover) at the time of booking.

Insurance may facilitate reimbursement of travel expenses and tour fees in the event of cancellation due to illness or other circumstances. Delegates should ensure their policy provides adequate coverage. IFEAT accepts no responsibility for insufficient insurance or declined claims.

Passports & Visas

Delegates requiring a visa are strongly encouraged to apply early.

IFEAT can provide invitation letters to support applications; however, processing times vary depending on nationality and issuing authorities. IFEAT cannot be held responsible for delays or unsuccessful applications.

Qualifications and Restrictions on Participation

Participation is initially limited to personnel employed by IFEAT Member companies, with one participant per company in the first instance.

To qualify, the Member company must have fully paid its annual subscription (including the current year) at the time of application and at the date of the Tour.

Delegates must be at least 21 years of age. No accompanying persons are permitted.Places are allocated on a first come, first served basis, and registration is confirmed only upon receipt of full payment.

Please read the full terms and conditions here (opens in new tab)