Serbian Farmers Demand Import Restrictions in Dairy Sector Protests

Farmers in Serbia have escalated their protests by blocking dozens of regional and local roads, as reported by local news media. These demonstrations, which have been ongoing for two weeks, are organized by representatives of more than 30 agricultural associations. The farmers are demanding restrictions on the import of dairy products, including powdered milk, and are seeking better prices for locally produced goods.

The roadblocks are expected to last several hours, with some areas experiencing traffic halts for the entire day, according to regional television channel N1. Serbia's Agriculture Minister Dragan Glamocic stated that the associations he invited to a meeting refused to engage in dialogue. He emphasized that any proposals to improve the farmers' situation must be presented in written form. Glamocic also remarked that he would not make decisions under pressure and accused the farmers of engaging in "politics" rather than constructive dialogue.

Since February 11, dissatisfied producers have been blocking the Ibar Highway, which connects Belgrade with Montenegro and Kosovo, as well as other key road connections. The Ministry of Agriculture has announced that Serbia requested consultations with the European Commission regarding the potential introduction of fees on milk and dairy products, with a meeting scheduled for February 25 in an online format.