Athens News Agency: News in English, 05-08-04

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From: The Athens News Agency at <http://www.ana.gr/>

CONTENTS

[01] Natural cosmetics market shows growth

[02] Police track down 'ecstasy' pills, cannabis plantation

[01] Natural cosmetics market shows growth

Over the last three years, sector firms have succesfully penetrated markets in Europe, the US and Asia, boosting turnover from exports, according to the survey.

Over the past four years, the size of the sector has more than doubled, placing it among the economy's fastest growing sectors. Total turnover in 2003-2004 rose by 55%.

In addition, the companies enjoy high gross and net profit margins. Since 2000, investments in research and development have totalled more than 2.0 million euros, Hellastat noted.

Best known abroad are brands by Apivita and Korres, which are sold in stores including Harrods, Harvey-Nichols, Selfridges, Liberty's, Sephora and Galleries Lafayette.

Mastic Spa, which uses the natural gum of the same name in its products, is also increasing operations abroad, including the US.

[02] Police track down 'ecstasy' pills, cannabis plantation

At Neohori Misolongi, police arrested a 34-year-old man on charges that he was preparing to sell "ecstasy" pills to youth who were to attend a rock festival in the area, of which he himself was the organiser.

The 34-year-old man was arrested at the moment he was receiving a package with the quantity of the pills, which was sent from Amsterdam. The arrested man was supplied by post from a Dutchman with quantities of "ecstasy" pills at least twice a year and his arrest occured following cooperation with the Dutch authorities.

In the other case, Patra police in the Pelopponese discovered in the region of Egialia a hashish plantation with 578 Indian cannabis plants and arrested a 38-year-old man on charges that he was cultivating them.

According to Patra police, the man cultivated the cannabis plants in specially formed areas within bushes.

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