Kars livestock producers face economic hardship due to market closure

Livestock producers in Kars are facing significant economic pressure following the closure of the local animal market and the suspension of animal transport to prevent the spread of foot-and-mouth disease.

Arzu Savaş Derman, the Kars Provincial Chair of the DEM Party, has called for urgent government intervention to mitigate the impact on the local economy. Proposed measures include a six-month interest-free postponement of bank loans, a six-month suspension of Bağ-Kur social security premiums for farmers and tradespeople, and the provision of free or subsidized feed, hay, and medicine.

Derman emphasized that the market closure affects not only breeders but also the transportation and local commerce sectors. Additionally, there are calls to accelerate vaccination efforts and implement measures to protect domestic producers by regulating animal and meat imports.