Farmers’ associations, which signed an agreement with the Ministry of Agriculture in July 2024, invited all farmers to a general protest scheduled for November 1, 2024. The agreement from July, between the Ministry and agricultural associations, included support in the form of subsidies, including payments for certified seeds in the amount of 17,000 dinars per hectare. However, the latest information indicates that some associations have reached an agreement with the Ministry to reduce subsidies, which has caused resentment among farmers.
According to the announcement of the five associations, the reduction of the amount of subsidies would be contrary to the signed agreement, which was agreed to improve the situation in agriculture and pay the basic subsidy of 35,000 dinars. Farmers improved their production by using certified seeds, while the reduction of subsidies would support fictitious farms that do not engage in real agricultural production. The deadline for applying for a subsidy for certified seeds is until the end of October, while payment is scheduled for the end of 2024.
Yes, a protest on November 1st
The associations that called for the protest warn that the reduction of subsidies would be a step backwards and would cause harm to farmers, and therefore demand the respect of all signed agreements. The protest was scheduled in response to the Ministry’s lack of reaction regarding the reduction of subsidies from 17,000 to 10,000 dinars. The associations insist that the full subsidies be paid as previously agreed and that they do not agree to a reduction in benefits.
Among the associations that signed the statement are:
- Association of farmers “Stig” from Požarevac;
- “Složni Pidikanci” from Bavanište;
- “Northern Banat” from Kikinda;
- Association of Milk Producers of Šumadija and Pomoravlja from Adran;
- “Brestovački ratar” from Banatski Brestovac.
Also, the associations “Our Milk” and the Association for the Rescue and Survival of Western Serbia refuse to reduce subsidies and insist on the payment of the agreed 100,000 dinars per heifer.
The United Farmers’ Associations of Serbia also demand a clear subsidy plan and regulations for excise-free fuel for farmers. Subsequently, they demand the introduction of a system of public warehouses and solving the problem with payment to the PIO fund. They also demand a moratorium on agricultural loans, noting that the banks do not have adequate information from the competent institutions. These associations consist of several key agricultural organizations from different parts of Serbia, including the Initiative for the Survival of Serbian Farmers and the Banat Alliance.
Source: Agronews
Source: boljazemlja.com
