Farmers in Northern Meriç slam Government Measures over rising costs
Agricultural associations in northern Evros have voiced strong dissatisfaction with recent government measures aimed at tackling rising costs, describing them as inadequate and disconnected from the realities faced by farmers.
In a joint statement, the Agricultural Associations of Northern Meriç said the policies have fueled “disappointment and frustration” across the farming community, warning that production costs have surged to unsustainable levels.
“Minimal Support Amid Soaring Costs”
Farmers criticized the government’s support package, including a 15% subsidy on fertilizers and marginal reductions in diesel prices, calling them insufficient in the face of widespread inflation.
“The cost of production has skyrocketed, making it impossible for farmers to survive,” the statement read, adding that while input costs continue to rise, producer prices for agricultural goods remain stagnant.
They also pointed to severe market instability, noting that agronomists are unable to provide reliable pricing for fertilizers due to frequent intra-day price increases by suppliers.
Fuel Policies Under Fire
The associations further criticized fuel price caps imposed on gas station operators, arguing that such measures unfairly target small businesses while leaving refinery profits largely untouched.
“This creates an environment of uncertainty and makes it impossible to plan agricultural production,” the statement noted.
“We Are Paying the Price of a War We Don’t Want”
Farmers linked the economic pressures to broader geopolitical developments, arguing that ongoing conflicts are indirectly driving up costs.
“Once again, citizens are being forced to pay the price of a war we do not want and do not wish to participate in,” the statement said, without naming specific conflicts.
Fears for Local Economy
The associations warned that for a third consecutive year, expenses are expected to exceed revenues, threatening not only farmers but also the wider local economy.
“This situation is already affecting other professional sectors, dragging down the entire regional economy,” they said.
Call for Immediate Action
Concluding their statement, the farmers called for substantial and targeted support measures that would allow them to sustain their livelihoods with dignity.
“We cannot endure this any longer,” they said. “We demand meaningful support that reflects the real challenges we face.”
