The most decisive action must be taken against the American grape cicada, which spreads the golden yellow infection

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The Minister said: the pathogen is already present in 15 wine regions, therefore, comprehensive, coordinated action must be implemented in order to curb, stop, eradicate, and eliminate the disease. Protection and prevention against the infection cannot be postponed – stated István Nagy. He explained that the disease has also appeared in Hungary due to climate change. The infection came to the vineyard areas from the south and is moving further and further north, which is why it first affected Zala County, then the South Balaton wine region and Badacsony.

István Nagy emphasized that the government has adopted a comprehensive action plan on the subject

The most important thing now is to investigate to find out where the infection is. In the fall, state-run spraying will be carried out in the most infected areas, and in the spring, in the entire country’s vineyards. He noted that it is difficult that spraying must be carried out with natural active ingredients in organic and eco areas, and with chemical active ingredients in other areas. István Nagy added: I would like to get farmers to cut down the infected vines and plant new ones, but with a clone that is guaranteed to be virus- or phytoplasma-free. István Nagy also said that Hungarian and European farmers alike feel the danger that the European Commission would restructure agricultural support in the new budget, allocate about 20 percent less resources to them, and would not allow them to have a say in the distribution. All this in order to transfer these resources to Ukraine instead of European farmers. Farmers in every country in Europe are outraged by the idea and are preparing to express it, with a huge demonstration planned in Brussels. In addition, the dissatisfaction and the danger that this Brussels plan poses to farmers must be expressed in every European capital, István Nagy added.

AM/MTI