Polish farmers demand ban on fruit imports from Türkiye, Ukraine, Serbia and Moldova

Polish farmers call for import restrictions on fruits from four countries, highlighting tensions within European agricultural trade and policy

Polish farmers staged a protest and called for a government ban on the import of fruits and other agricultural products from Ukraine, Serbia, Moldova and Türkiye.

This move echoes similar demands made by farmers in Germany, France and other EU-15 countries when Poland joined the European Union.

The farmers’ rally centers around concerns about competition from these countries and has now opened up a larger debate about the European agricultural policy, particularly the “European Green Deal.”

Polish farmers argue this deal places them at a disadvantage compared to imported produce.

Interestingly, the present scenario reminds many of other EU countries’ past fears about Polish agricultural products.

However, historical data suggests that mutual market access has been beneficial. For instance, Poland’s trade with Ukraine involves importing inexpensive raw materials and exporting high-value products, boosting Poland’s economy through job creation, increased exports and tax revenues.

Social media discussions revealed a divide between protesting farmers and other Polish citizens. Some citizens question the rationale behind the protests, pointing out the irony of protesting against EU policies while benefiting from EU subsidies.

Adding an international dimension, Ukrainian producers suspected Russian influence behind these protests, noting the absence of such large-scale demonstrations before Russia invaded Ukraine.

They suggested Polish farmers might be unwittingly influenced by Russian propaganda despite overt threats from the Kremlin toward Poland.

Source: Eastfood