Farmers across Hungary are bracing for another challenging season as the influx of Ukrainian agricultural goods into the European Union significantly impacts local farms. The increased competition has pushed many Hungarian farmers to the brink of financial ruin.
Laszlo Kovacs, a seasoned farmer with nearly three decades of experience cultivating wheat, sunflower, and rapeseed, describes the dire situation. “We’ve been on life support since the EU opened the floodgates,” he said. “Instead of delivering the final blow, they should extend a helping hand to bring us back to life.”
The crisis deepened when Russia’s blockade of Ukrainian ports forced Ukraine to reroute its wheat and maize exports overland into Europe. The European Union’s decision to cut border duties in support of Ukraine led to a surge of cheaper Ukrainian imports, causing a significant drop in market prices. This development has further burdened Hungarian farmers already grappling with rising production costs.
“Right now, it’s tough,” Kovacs admits. “We’re not making much profit, just losses. Food prices are rising, but we’re not seeing any gains.”
The Hungarian farming community is calling on their government and the European Union to take immediate action to alleviate the financial strain. Protests are being organized to raise awareness of their plight and to demand policies that protect local agriculture.
The situation highlights the complex challenges facing European agriculture amid shifting trade dynamics and geopolitical tensions. As farmers like Kovacs struggle to stay afloat, the broader implications for food security and rural economies across the region become increasingly pressing concerns.
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Hungarian farmers to protest against Ukrainian agricultural imports
cgtn.com
