Moldovan farmers protest for agricultural aid
Farmers from several districts across the country are protesting for the second consecutive day.
They demand the urgent adoption of the drought law, which outlines measures to support the agricultural sector. Following Wednesday's protest in front of the government, farmers gathered at Parliament today, December 19th, demanding direct talks with all parliamentary factions and a plenary hearing.
After Wednesday's protest, farmers met with Agriculture and Food Industry Minister Ludmila Catlabuga. Despite nearly two hours of discussion, they left unsatisfied and vowed to continue protests. They're now seeking a plenary hearing in Parliament.
"We've seen plenty of promises, but we've made it clear: we want action, not words," explained Alexandru Bădărău, director of the Farmers' Force Association. "We've come to Parliament to discuss this with all parliamentary factions. We don't know if the proposed amendment to the old Law 240 will be voted on today, as we've drafted a new law."
Farmers are maintaining their demands: the approval of the drought law, the extension of cereal and oilseed import licensing until the end of 2025, and the payment of overdue subsidies for last year. They warn that the sector is on the brink of collapse if authorities don't act swiftly.
President Maia Sandu acknowledged the farmers' concerns but cited limited government resources due to the economic crisis and the war in Ukraine. She promised alternative solutions and increased agricultural investments as the economy grows.
The Ministry of Agriculture stated that some farmer requests, like excise duty refunds, are justified but hindered by resource constraints. Overdue 2023 subsidies will be paid after the 2025 budget is approved, and other demands are under review, according to Ministry Secretary-General Sergiu Gherciu.
Farmers vow to continue protests until their demands are met, warning that inaction threatens Moldova's agricultural future.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
