Bulgaria aims to curb its heavy reliance on imported fruits and vegetables, constituting 80% of consumption, with Agriculture Minister Kiril Vatev announcing plans for a new law to regulate trade.
Concerns over declining local production and protests from farmers have prompted this initiative. Vatev emphasises the need for rules governing agricultural products and food trade, citing the lack thereof.
Despite Bulgaria's favourable climate and soil for agriculture, imports from Turkey and Greece dominate. The minister stresses the necessity of comprehensive regulations across the food chain.
Bulgaria, seeking EU approval for changes in its Strategic Plan, plans to double annual subsidies for young farmers while allocating funds for entry into agriculture. A reduction in the biodiversity budget is offset by increased funding to assist farmers in pesticide reduction.
source: euractiv.com