Mar 17 • 03:34 UTC 🇱🇻 Latvia LSM

The increase in fuel prices will affect the cost of agricultural production

Aija Ošāne, manager of SIA 'Eko dārzs', expresses concerns that rising fuel prices and extended delivery times will impact the agricultural production costs in Latvia.

Aija Ošāne, the manager of the eco-farm SIA 'Eko dārzs' located in Vidriži parish of Limbaži municipality, recently showcased winter wheat fields spanning approximately 100 hectares. Although the crops appear healthy, she warns that unpredictable spring weather and cold nights could pose risks to their growth. Ošāne suggests that assessments of the plants' winter survival will not be accurate until late March or early April, indicating a period of uncertainty is ahead for these farmers.

In her role as the head of the grain group at the Latvian Organic Farming Association, Ošāne highlights the significant concern among organic farmers regarding the recent 25% surge in diesel prices, particularly as planting season approaches in early April. She notes that the delivery times for fuel have also lengthened considerably, with what used to take a few days now extended to several weeks. This delay adds stress to farmers who rely on timely fuel deliveries for their operations during critical planting periods.

Ošāne emphasizes that organic farmers in Latvia are not isolated from global market trends and events, pointing out that the rise in fuel prices is significant and stressful. She indicates that this situation is critical for the local agricultural community as it directly impacts production costs and food security, potentially leading to higher prices for consumers and challenging the sustainability of farming practices amid worsening economic conditions.

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