Tobacco producers oppose phasing out of EU subsidies in the sector

The National Association of Tobacco Producers - 2010 opposes the proposal for banning public support for tobacco cultivation in the EU. A letter to the Ministry of Agriculture quotes the position of the largest European agricultural organization "Copa-Cogeca", sent to EU countries. Tobacco producers are unhappy that the termination of any form of state support for tobacco cultivation will be discussed on November 17 in Geneva at the COP11 conference under the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.

"Copa-Cogeca" recalls that although public health considerations are legitimate, decisions on agricultural issues made in international forums should be led by agricultural authorities, not health ministries. It is also recalled that tobacco is an agricultural crop that is grown under strict environmental and labour standards in the EU.

The National Association of Tobacco Producers - 2010 states that it expects a quick response from the ministry and the permanent representation of Bulgaria in Brussels to protect the livelihood of farmers who make a living from tobacco production in specific and unattractive regions of the country.