The Independent Association of Serbian Farmers (NAPS) is set to meet with Serbian government representatives to discuss critical issues affecting the agricultural sector, largely due to drought conditions and reduced crop yields. If their requests for assistance are not addressed, they are prepared to express their dissatisfaction through protests, according to NAPS President Jovica Jakšić.
The date for the meeting is still being finalized. Recently, the association’s Management Board reported that many farmers are struggling to survive financially.
Miloš Radisavljević, a NAPS member from Kragujevac who focuses on fruit growing, highlighted ongoing challenges. He noted that last year’s drought left many in debt, and even loans are insufficient to cover the losses. “Without state support, continuing production will be very difficult,” Radisavljević said. His fruit yields, including cherries and plums, have been significantly reduced due to poor prices and damage from hail. Sunflower yields are also about half the average, and corn yields are dramatically lower compared to last year.
Velizar Milosavljević from Mali Crnić described the situation as a “disaster.” Managing 160 hectares, he grows corn, wheat, sunflower, and oilseed rape. He reported that this year’s drought has been worse than last year’s, leading to halved harvests and substantial financial losses. Milosavljević criticized the government for failing to deliver promised subsidies and support, including a previous commitment for 35,000 dinars per hectare, with part of it expected by April and the rest for certified seeds by September.
Milosavljević also mentioned unfulfilled promises regarding subsidies for certified seeds and the registration of leased plots owned by foreigners. As a result, many farmers are facing severe financial strain with reduced yields and low crop prices.
Additionally, he expressed frustration over unpaid debts from last year’s seed wheat production and a company that has since gone bankrupt, leaving him with mounting legal expenses.
Milosavljević emphasized the urgent need for state intervention to help the agricultural sector survive this crisis. NAPS will demand that the Ministry of Agriculture urgently pay outstanding subsidies, return part of the excise tax on fuel, and implement several other measures. These include limiting margins, exempting value-added tax on raw materials, providing subsidized loans, regulating fuel purchase cards, ensuring the purchase of agricultural products for reserves, and curbing monopolistic practices in the agricultural market.
NAPS members are ready to protest if their demands are not met, reflecting the widespread discontent within the farming community.
