Farmers threaten protests unless the Government regulates Ukrainian grain transit by Friday
The "Forța Fermierilor" association is once again threatening large-scale protests. Farmers are demanding that the Government establish clear regulations for the transit of Ukrainian grain through the Republic of Moldova. They are concerned that increased heavy transport could obstruct the logistics routes they rely on for their exports.
Three days ago, Prime Minister Vasile Tofan met with Alexandr Slusari, a representative of the association, to discuss several pressing issues related to the grain market. The discussion covered the blockage of Ukrainian ports, harvest forecasts, the recent decline in wheat and rapeseed prices, and the transit of production from Ukraine.
Alexandr Slusari warned that the influx of Ukrainian goods could significantly impact the local market. He urged for the involvement of Moldovan farmers and exporters in managing the transit process, and called for a clear plan for the next 4-5 months to prevent logistical and customs issues.
“We cannot allow our exports to be jeopardized due to logistical or customs blockages,” the official press release from the association stated.
Additionally, Forța Fermierilor proposed implementing a licensing system for grain imports from Ukraine, similar to the approach taken in Romania. Prime Minister Vasile Tofan committed to convening a meeting this week focused on Ukrainian transit, which will include farmers and officials from Moldova's infrastructure and railway sectors.
However, the association has warned that without concrete measures taken by the end of the week, they will resort to street protests.
“The main governing body of the organization has decided that if we do not see progress by Friday on three key issues—transit control, import licensing, and prevention of a VAT increase—the association reserves the right to organize large-scale protests,” the statement concluded.
