“The Ministry of Agriculture uses instruments that are in accordance with the principle of a free market, where the price is determined by demand and supply and it is not the duty of the state to interfere in this price. Of course, the prices you mention do not take into account the costs of collection, sorting out, transport, etc. We should orient our development policies where we know how to do our work, not by interfering in the market,” said Krifca.

The minister reiterated that this year saw the highest budget allocation ever for farmers and rural development.

“It has never happened to see 30,000 beneficiaries in the national scheme on July 7. The scheme has absorbed 10-15%. We can figure out how many farmers have applied. You are very right to ask for more budget. More budget is needed, but this year saw the highest budget allocation ever,” Krifca said.

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