Moldovan Farmers Demand Meeting over Ukrainian Grain Transit Fears

Farmer's association 'Forța Fermierilor' from Moldova is demanding an urgent meeting with Prime Minister Vasile Tofan to discuss the impact of Ukrainian agricultural transit on the grain market. They express concerns that a 50% reduction in rail transport costs for goods from Ukraine could lead to a collapse of prices for grains and oilseeds in Moldova's domestic market.

The agreement between Chisinau and Kyiv came into effect on August 10 and will remain until the end of 2026. The farmers are worried that the increased use of wagons for Ukrainian goods could block Moldovan exports and raise transportation costs, particularly during the peak agricultural season. They note that nearly one-third of Moldovan wheat was exported by rail in July this year.

The association also criticizes the decision regarding the transit of Ukrainian cereals, stating it was made without consulting local agricultural producers. They demand 'total transparency' regarding its impact on Moldovan agriculture and are calling for an urgent meeting with the Prime Minister, threatening protests if their demands are not addressed.