The Consortium of regional producers of Calabrian chili peppers is seeking protection mark status for the product, as they face unfair competition from Chinese chili peppers which are only a fifth of the cost of Italian ones. Calabria produces 25% of Italy's chili peppers but only covers 20% of the country's needs, leading to the import of over 2,000 tons, mainly from China. The Chinese chili peppers are criticized for their low quality and lack of hygienic-sanitary guarantees, while Italian peppers are rigorously selected and transformed using advanced techniques. The Consortium's move is supported by Cia-Agricoltori Italiani, especially to meet the demand of the food industry and for exports, with the Netherlands being the destination for 50% of Calabria's chili production.