Exemplary development has taken place in the horticulture sector

(Photo: AM/Csaba Pelsőczy)

István Nagy said at the anniversary, tenth Zsendüles horticulture conference that horticulture is today a prosperous, excellently organized sector that is breaking into and dominating retail chains. He believed that this is due to technological developments, in addition to the fact that the actors were willing to participate in production chains and integration. The necessary quantity of goods for producers, supply security and commercial chains has been established, which has enabled the displacement of imported products – the politician said. The minister mentioned the regulation of the employment of casual labor among the changes affecting the sector. The regulations – compared to the initial intention – were modified in such a way that the duration of employment increased to 120 plus 90 days, which fully covers the needs of horticulture – he said.

István Nagy said that the issue of general sales tax is a recurring theme of the conference series

He explained that the VAT refund for pensioners is a solution that stimulates consumption, helps those who are really in need, avoiding that traders can “swallow” the VAT reduction. He said that the VAT on several basic foodstuffs is 5 percent, but consumers do not feel this in the prices, and producers do not feel this in the transfer prices. The solution will work in the simplest possible way: similar to discount systems, the card will be “swiped” when paying, and then when the pension is transferred, everyone will receive an amount of between 10,000 and 15,000 forints per month, which will be credited to them after purchasing vegetables, fruit and dairy products – the minister announced.

According to the politician, nothing justifies the attitude of retailers, which results in a significant difference in the pricing of their own and manufacturer-branded products

According to him, the margin of stores must be reviewed, it must be seen how excessive it is and how much it causes problems in everyday living. István Nagy considers the behavior that exploits the vulnerability of customers unacceptable. He emphasized that this is why government control and dialogue with trade are also necessary. The minister emphasized that the intention of the players in the horticultural sector to apply for tenders is unwavering, which, in line with the government’s aspirations, proves that they want to make a living from this in the long term. The calls for support, regardless of the targeted farm size, received requests for twice the announced budget. The government will maintain its priority support for the area, the minister said, adding that several applications are being evaluated, and applications for other opportunities will open within weeks.

MTI