Farmers from the Strumica region staged a protest in the city center, utilizing agricultural machinery to block access to the area. The demonstration was organized to press their demands for an increased purchase price for Kërtovskë peppers, which are intended for the local canning and processing industry. The farmers are seeking concrete assurances and outcomes from the Minister of Agriculture, Borçe Serafimovski, following a meeting held in Strumica the previous day.
According to representatives present, during the meeting, Minister Serafimovski indicated a willingness to address the farmers’ concerns. However, he stipulated that his ability to commit to a higher price was contingent upon further discussions with key stakeholders—specifically, the representatives of the processing capacities within the canning industry. Currently, the prevailing purchase rate offered by these processors stands at 25 denars per kilogram.
The protestors stated that the Minister had given assurances regarding his commitment to securing a more favorable purchase price for the local agricultural product. The blockade in the Strumica center underscores the economic concerns of the farming community regarding the profitability of their harvest. The continued focus of the farmers remains on receiving a definitive commitment from the Ministry that will adjust the current market valuation, thereby stabilizing the income for producers in the region.
Topics: #farmers #strumica #center
