In a statement, cheesemakers said the collection of milk is currently impossible, both in practice and in legal terms, as no clear instructions have been issued by the competent authorities. They say no approved storage sites have been designated for the destruction of milk, while the procedures for issuing the necessary documents remain unclear, blocking both the transport of products and compensation for producers.
Those in the sector also express serious concern over the terms of the recent Joint Ministerial Decree, arguing that the scope for compensation through dairies is severely limited, including for milk that had already been produced or processed in previous weeks.
The problem is intensifying, with around 250 tonnes of milk produced every day and no way for it to be disposed of. Cheesemakers stress that the immediate removal of dairy products is the only way for dairies to reopen. They argue that such a step would help contain the spread of the disease and support the local economy, while preventing uncontrolled disposal and ensuring that livestock farmers are paid.
At the same time, following a meeting between the bodies involved and the leadership of the Ministry of Rural Development and Food, cheesemakers underlined the need for the port to be opened immediately so that products can be sent to available buyers under strict health protocols. However, they complain that the ministry gave no specific timetable.
The sector is now awaiting clear signs of cooperation from the state in order to prevent the crisis from worsening further and to allow production activity to resume smoothly.
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