Sinan Ahmet: “If farmers collapse, the cities will collapse too”

Sinan Ahmet, President of the Thrace Tobacco Producers’ Cooperative, released a video statement addressing tobacco procurement in the region, the challenges faced by producers, and the ongoing protest actions.

Ahmet noted that as of Monday, 8 December, tobacco buyers had begun procurement in certain areas. “On one hand, we have protests; on the other, buying and selling continues. Some producers must deliver a certain amount of tobacco by the end of the year. This is necessary for them to remain exempt from taxation. Our aim is not to victimize anyone,” he said.

“THE FATE OF PREMIUMS CUT SINCE 2010 MUST BE INVESTIGATED”

Highlighting long-standing and unresolved grievances, Ahmet stressed that the deductions from producers’ premiums dating back to 2010 still lack a clear explanation regarding who ordered them and why. Referring to recent issues related to OPEKEPE (Greece’s Agricultural Payments and Control Agency), he added: “We have all seen to whom and how these premiums were directed.”

Ahmet underscored the cooperative’s main demand: “We are calling for support for small farmers, tobacco producers, and villagers who depend on production. The problems have piled up. We have communicated them to the relevant authorities both verbally and in writing, and we will continue to do so.”

CRITICAL MEETING IN TRILOFOS WITH REPRESENTATIVES FROM 19 REGIONS

The Cooperative President also commented on a meeting held yesterday in Trilofos, attended by representatives from 19 regions. He emphasized its significance: “During the meeting, producers voiced their concerns directly. What makes this meeting important is that the issues raised will be formally submitted to the ministry. That’s why we attended and conveyed the difficulties faced by our producers.”

“THE PROBLEM NO LONGER BELONGS ONLY TO FARMERS—IT BELONGS TO THE ENTIRE CITY”

Ahmet warned that the crisis now affects the broader region, noting that the survival of farmers is vital for local economies. “The problem has spread. If the farmer cannot stand, the city cannot stand. Our tradespeople have also begun to feel the strain. I thank all shopkeepers who have supported the protests so far.”

“WE MUST FILL THE HIGHWAYS—WITHOUT UNITY, THERE IS NO SOLUTION”

Calling for stronger participation in protest actions, Ahmet urged producers not to underestimate their power: “Don’t say, ‘What difference does it make if I go?’ One hand makes no sound, but two hands do. If we stand together, we will achieve something.”

He reminded all agricultural workers—farmers, livestock breeders, and others—that they are united by common problems and shared objectives. “Our issues are the same. We continue seeking solutions together. That is why everyone’s support is extremely important,” he said.

Concluding his message with a call for solidarity, Ahmet stated: “Please come and support us. Success will come when we stand united.”