Greece agricultural sector faces livestock disease and crop losses

Agricultural producers in Greece are facing severe economic and biological threats. In the livestock sector, an outbreak of bluetongue disease has resulted in the deaths of approximately 500,000 animals nationwide, including 1,000 in Preveza and several cases in Arta. Livestock farmers and the Communist Party of Greece (KKE) have criticized the government for refusing to implement vaccination programs, alleging that the administration prioritizes protecting the export status and profits of large corporate groups, such as Dodoni S.A., over the survival of small-scale producers.

Simultaneously, citrus growers in the Filiates plain are struggling with declining yields and deteriorating fruit quality. Producers report significant losses caused by pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects, with some crops facing losses of up to 40%. These biological issues are compounded by extreme weather events, including hail and heavy rainfall, as well as rising costs for energy, fertilizers, and plant protection. Local officials are seeking meetings with the Ministry of Rural Development and Food to request financial compensation for these damages.