Orbán cabinet mulls Ukraine farm product ban extension over Brussels' inaction
Hungary Considers Extending Ban on Ukrainian Farm Imports
The Hungarian government is considering extending its ban on imports of Ukrainian farm products if the European Union (EU) fails to implement adequate protections for Hungarian farmers. Agriculture Minister István Nagy recently implemented a ban on imports of Ukrainian grain, oilseed, and other farm products until June 30 in order to allow time for the EU to reassess its measures that have resulted in a glut on local markets. Now, state secretary for Hungary's agriculture ministry, Sándor Farkas, has stated that several Ukrainian farm products are being removed from the market after authorities found harmful substances in them. Hungarian farmers must be protected at all costs, said Mr. Farkas, adding that this includes not just grain, but also oilseeds and honey. The Hungarian government is determined to keep its farmers safe and protect the market from contaminated products. Meanwhile, Farm gate prices in Hungary rose by 27.0% year-on-year in February.
