Israel has cancelled an agricultural reform aimed at reducing prices for fruits and vegetables. The lack of funds in the budget hindered the progress of the reform initiated by the previous government. Under the cover of war, the current government has published a draft decree to cancel key stages of reducing customs duties on vegetables and fruits planned for 2024-2026.
The government plans to maintain the current situation, ignoring the cost of living issues. Previous agreements with farmers included direct support and investments in new technologies. However, Netanyahu promised to halt the reform and increase support for farmers. Lack of agreements and budgetary constraints create a tense situation.
Step-by-step reduction of customs duties on products has only been partially implemented. Professionals attempted to change import rules, but unsuccessfully. Farmers raised demands but couldn't reach agreements due to a lack of funds. The new decree cancelling subsequent stages of tariff reduction is not backed by reasoned arguments, with its sole reason being the "request of the Minister of Agriculture to freeze the process."
source: detaly.co.il