SERBIAN FARMERS PROTEST HIGH PRODUCTION COSTS- The Farmers requested for higher and more predictable subsidies, temporary restrictions or tariffs
Serbian farmers blocked main roads across the country today, demanding stronger subsidies and protection from cheap imports, as rural incomes strain under rising input costs and weak commodity prices.
The protests started almost two weeks ago and have spread across the country, – disrupting traffic along 42 main roads
The farmers’ requests include higher and more predictable subsidies, temporary restrictions or tariffs on some agricultural imports, including cheaper foreign milk and pork, and faster payments under the system.
In Bogatic, a small town west of Belgrade, a member of a farmers association, Milan Zorbic, said that the people’s energy would not decrease, as they are ready to persevere and push to the end.
Agriculture minister Dragan Glamocic, said farmers had failed to come to talks to discuss measures aimed at improving the milk market. Adding that some retailers had pledged to increase purchases of dairy products from farmers.
Serbia is viewed as a candidate for membership in the European Union and it has reportedly committed to harmonising agricultural policies with those of the bloc, including opening its market to EU products.
