The Government is preparing measures to subsidize the cost of diesel used in agriculture, with the objective of relieving the burden on farmers and stopping the increase in agricultural product prices. The information was provided by the Minister of Economy and Territorial Cohesion, Manuel Castro Almeida, in statements to journalists on the sidelines of the Honor Commitment ceremony of the 21 new inspectors of the Authority for Food and Economic Security (ASAE), which took place at the National Library of Portugal, in Lisbon.
The minister considered the increase in the cost of diesel in agriculture "particularly concerning," highlighting that farmers have no room to reduce this consumption, as the fuel is necessary for the operation of tractors and agricultural machinery. According to Castro Almeida, the increase in diesel costs ends up being reflected in the prices of agricultural products in supermarkets and, consequently, in the cost of living for consumers.
The minister also highlighted a "double effect" on families, particularly those with the greatest needs, who face both the increase in fuel costs and the rise in agricultural product prices. "Special protection for agricultural diesel has this double advantage," he stated.
When questioned by the Portuguese news agency about the adoption of new measures beyond the agricultural sector, the minister said that, "for now," the Government is focused on this measure, due to its impact on farmers' costs and, subsequently, on prices charged. "It will alleviate the pressure on prices for agricultural products," he stated.
