Turkey distributes 688 million lira in agricultural support amid calls for policy reform

Turkey's Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has announced the transfer of 688.2 million lira in agricultural support payments to farmers. Minister İbrahim Yumaklı stated the funds aim to ensure continuous production and support producers. The distribution includes 530.15 million lira for animal disease compensation, 131 million lira for rural development investments, and 27 million lira for animal genetic resources.

In contrast, YENİ Parti Aydın Deputy Evrim Karakoz has submitted a parliamentary research motion to investigate the reasons behind farmers withdrawing from production. Karakoz criticized current agricultural policies, arguing that rising costs for fuel, fertilizer, seed, and electricity, combined with low product prices and import decisions during harvest periods, are causing farmers to face significant debt. She noted that while agricultural debt to banks has reached approximately 1.48 trillion lira, actual support levels remain significantly below legal requirements.