The Socialist Party of Madeira (PS-M) believes that the decision for the Madeira Banana's Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) application to be formalized by ACOESTE, rather than GESBA, demonstrates that the public company "does not legally represent the banana growers of Madeira".
Socialist deputy Sílvia Silva described the delay in obtaining a distinctive designation for the Madeira Banana as an "unacceptable paradox," holding the Regional Government responsible. According to Silva, GESBA does not meet the European legal requirements to be considered a producers' organization, as its capital and voting rights belong to the Region and not predominantly to the producers.
The PS criticizes GESBA for delegating the process instead of correcting the representation flaws previously identified by the Competition Authority. The socialists acknowledge that other producers' associations may contest the application, potentially delaying the process, but assert the producers' right to challenge what they perceive as GESBA's attempt to maintain a "banana monopoly."
