MP Özgür Ferhat raises economic losses of tobacco producers in parliament
Rhodope MP and member of the New Left Parliamentary Group Özgür Ferhat brought attention to the economic difficulties faced by tobacco producers in the Rodopi region through a formal question addressed to Deputy Minister of Rural Development and Food Ioannis Adrianos in the Greek Parliament.
In his statement, Ferhat highlighted that tobacco farmers have faced severe challenges in recent years, stressing that the prolonged heatwaves, drought, plant diseases, and greenworm infestations in 2024 had significantly damaged production. He criticized the fact that, despite the Rhodope Agricultural Directorate identifying drought as the main cause in its reports, tobacco was not included in the “Measure 23” support package.
Referring to a September 2025 report by the Rhodope Agricultural and Livestock Department, Ferhat noted that in some areas, yield losses reached up to 100% due to plant diseases. He expressed the farmers’ frustration over the Ministry’s inaction, despite the severity of the situation.
Ferhat also pointed out that neighboring countries such as Bulgaria and Romania have provided millions of euros in national aid to their tobacco growers, while Greek farmers have been left without comparable support. He warned that,
“Tobacco cultivation areas have decreased from 60,000 decares in 2018 to just 20,000 decares today. Without urgent measures, this traditional form of production could disappear entirely.”
The MP further emphasized that producers are suffering from rising energy costs, with many farmers facing threats from electricity companies over unpaid bills, calling on the government to take immediate action.
Ministry Promises Evaluation
In response, Deputy Minister Ioannis Adrianos stated that tobacco production is not currently included in the “Measure 23” program, as the main cause of the reported losses—greenworm infestations—falls outside the scope of existing compensation mechanisms.
However, Adrianos announced that a new “de minimis” or national aid package is under consideration for 2025. He also mentioned a new measure allowing farmers to restructure their agricultural electricity debts interest-free.
Tobacco Producers Await Support
For thousands of families in Rodopi, tobacco remains a vital source of income. Yet, due to climate change and rising production costs, the sector has entered a period of serious decline. The Ministry’s planned new aid package for the upcoming year is seen as crucial for the survival of local producers.
Local farmers continue to call for a fair and sustainable support program to preserve tobacco cultivation—a cornerstone of Western Thrace’s agricultural and cultural identity.
