Results that confirm the development process goes on were achieved in the agricultural sector in the course of this year. The harvest of corn, stone fruit and vegetables increased and total production was by about 25% higher compared with last year. However, despite the rich harvest, this year wasn’t an easy one for a part of the farmers owing to a series of factors and the larger production was a burden for many of them, Minister of Agriculture, Regional Development and Environment Nicolae Ciubuc stated in a festivity held to celebrate the Agriculture and Processing Industry Worker’s Day, IPN reports.
“This holiday is a unique occasion for summarizing the results and setting new objectives so as to increase the efficiency of agricultural production and the welfare of people in rural areas. Traditionally, at the end of November we render homage to those who work in autumn to have the storehouses full of what is needed for domestic consumption and to cover a significant part of Moldova’s exports,” stated the minister.
According to Nicolae Ciubuc, the positive results of the agricultural year are summarized on such a day and the problems faced by the farmers and the agricultural sector during the year are also highlighted. Despite the vulnerabilities, the farmers found strength and enthusiasm to continue work and the Ministry will be making effort to build a powerful and sustainable agro-industrial complex. “It wasn’t an easy year. We witnessed the dashing of farmers’ hopes. We had rich apple, plum and grape harvests, but the weather conditions, unpredictability, low prices and the absorption capacity of the market made the rise in production become a burden for many farmers,” stated Nicolae Ciubuc.
Attending the event, Prime Minister Pavel Filip noted the Government made considerable effort to remedy the economic situation in the country during the past three years and made investments in support of the farmers. Thus, the agriculture subsidization fund was augmented to about 1 billion lei and the overdue subsidies were paid to farmers. The young and female farmers running agricultural businesses benefitted from concessions. This year the state allocated 45 million lei for the purpose.
Pavel Filip said the Government will further support the measures aimed at developing the agricultural sector and at enhancing competitiveness. “I encourage you to advance in cultivating value added products, to invest in modern equipment and technology so that we are all absolutely sure that our harvest will be sold and profit will be made as a result,” stated the Premier.
