MP Ferhat urges emergency support for tobacco farmers
"If the necessary support is not provided urgently, tobacco production faces the risk of complete extinction."
Rodopi’s New Left MP Özgür Ferhat has brought attention to the severe losses suffered by tobacco farmers due to extreme weather conditions and plant diseases.
In a parliamentary question submitted to the Minister of Agriculture and Food, Ferhat called on the government to provide immediate financial assistance, stressing that farmers are facing serious economic hardship.
Major Crop Losses in Rodopi
Ferhat highlighted that this year has been particularly challenging for tobacco farmers in the Rodopi region, citing:
Extreme heat, drought, and insufficient rainfall
Thrips (Floria) and Green Worm infestations, which have severely impacted crop quality and yield
A report by a three-member commission from the Eastern Macedonia-Thrace Regional Agricultural Economy and Veterinary Directorate estimated losses ranging between 30-40%, leading to substantial financial damage for farmers.
Questions to the Government
Ferhat urged the government to address the following:
- Will Rodopi’s tobacco farmers receive emergency compensation for their losses?
- Will they be included in the €142.7 million "Measure 23" support package for agricultural sectors experiencing over 30% production loss?
- "Production Costs Have Increased Fivefold"
Ferhat emphasized that tobacco production is a cornerstone of the region’s economy, yet while tobacco prices have remained stagnant at €5-6 per kilo for the past 20 years, production costs have increased fivefold.
"The government is abandoning Rodopi’s tobacco farmers. If urgent support is not provided, tobacco production will be at risk of total collapse," Ferhat warned, urging authorities to take immediate action.
