Serbia Agriculture Minister addresses sunflower pricing and farmer protests

Serbian Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management Dragan Glamočić stated that the final purchase price for sunflowers will be determined in approximately one month. While the initial advance price was set at 40 dinars per kilogram, market movements have already pushed the price above 50 dinars plus VAT. The minister noted that international market trends and developments in Russia and Ukraine will influence the final pricing.

Addressing farmer protests demanding a minimum price of 70 dinars, Glamočić characterized these demands as “politically motivated,” suggesting a minority is using the situation for political promotion. He compared local prices to Hungary, where sunflower prices range between 57 and 58 dinars, noting that higher regional prices often apply to high-oleic acid varieties not currently produced in Serbia.

Regarding agricultural conditions, the minister reported that despite drought affecting corn in Vojvodina, this year's sunflower yield is expected to be better than last year and above the five-year average. He confirmed sufficient supply for domestic needs and export. Additionally, Glamočić provided updates on African swine fever, noting that 36,632 pigs have died or been euthanized across 62 settlements, though recent cases have been sporadic.