Spanish farmers announce protests over rising agricultural diesel costs

Spanish agricultural organizations Asaja, COAG, and UPA have announced urgent nationwide mobilizations to protest the “unbearable” rise in agricultural diesel prices. The groups state that rising costs for fuel and fertilizers have pushed the sector to a “limit situation,” severely impacting profitability across all territories.

According to Ministry of Agriculture data, agricultural diesel reached 1.649 euros per liter on September 7, marking a 48% increase compared to the previous year. These rising costs coincide with critical agricultural periods, including sowing, grape harvesting, and corn harvesting, with olive harvesting approaching shortly.

A major point of contention is the expiration of agricultural diesel purchase subsidies on September 30. The organizations warn that with less than two weeks remaining, no administration has provided alternative financial support or clear responses. While the Ministry of Agriculture, led by Luis Planas, has stated it is studying potential measures to be decided in the coming weeks, the lack of an immediate package has left farmers facing significant uncertainty during the autumn campaign.