Serbian farmers block roads to protest cheap imports

By: Trademagazin Date: 2026. 02. 24. 09:10

🎧 Hallgasd a cikket: Nyelv: Sebesség: 1.05×

Farmers in Serbia took to the streets on Tuesday with tractors to protest cheap imports and low state subsidies.

The protests began two weeks ago in the southwest of the country and have since spread across Serbia. Roads were closed in 42 locations on Tuesday. The farmers said they would maintain the blockade until their demands were met.

According to the protesters, milk and dairy products from abroad are being sold at such low prices that domestic producers cannot compete. The low prices have led some producers to destroy their products. Livestock farmers also complain that the purchase price of live pigs is persistently below sustainable levels, while costs are rising.

Farmers are demanding higher state subsidies and temporary restrictions or tariffs on certain agricultural imports to level the playing field.

Agriculture Minister Dragan Glamocic said on Tuesday that farmers had not shown up for talks aimed at improving the situation on the milk market. He said several retail chains had agreed to increase their purchases of domestic dairy products. According to the minister, the protests have become politicized and the government is unwilling to make decisions under pressure.