Tunisian Farmers' Union Calls for Urgent Veterinary Mobilization

The Tunisian Farmers' Union has called for urgent veterinary mobilization to protect the country's national herd amid the spread of animal diseases in neighboring countries. The union's national executive office met on Friday to discuss the latest developments in the agricultural and fishing sectors. The meeting was attended by union head Moez Ben Zeghdan and focused on addressing the challenges facing various production systems. The union emphasized the need for enhanced health vigilance and immediate veterinary intervention.

The union's statement highlighted the importance of providing necessary funding for the upcoming agricultural seasons and monitoring the production and marketing seasons. They also stressed the need to protect national production systems and enhance their ability to face current difficulties. The union called for the provision of necessary resources for veterinary services, intensification of vaccination and monitoring operations, and increased surveillance. Farmers were urged to report suspected cases immediately.

The union also emphasized the need for timely provision of high-quality seeds and production inputs to farmers. They called for accelerated study and disbursement of seasonal loans to ensure a successful start to the major agricultural season. The union highlighted the importance of rationalizing import operations according to national market needs and avoiding imports during periods of peak local production.

The union also focused on promoting Tunisian products, particularly pomegranates, and exploring new export markets. They called for streamlined procedures for promotion and export, as well as measures to prevent the accumulation of produce. The union also addressed the challenges faced by producers of figs, including the impact of repeated water shortages during the summer season.

Regarding the olive harvest season, the union called for necessary funding for various stages of the process, from harvesting to export. They emphasized the need to develop storage capacity and enhance the role of the Office of Olive Oil in intervening and regulating the market. The union also urged diversification of external markets for Tunisian olive oil and mitigation of the impact of customs duties on exports.

In the fisheries sector, the union called for a review of complex administrative procedures that hinder fishermen's activities. They urged an end to unilateral decisions made without consultation with professionals and sector representatives. The union emphasized the need for a participatory approach to addressing sector concerns and making related decisions.

The union concluded that protecting national production requires providing production inputs, financing, and protecting Tunisian products. They emphasized the need for effective intervention to address the challenges faced by farmers and fishermen. The union's demands aim to ensure the sustainability of Tunisia's agricultural and fishing sectors.

Key points

• The Tunisian Farmers' Union has urged the government to take immediate action against animal diseases.
• The union emphasized the need for enhanced health vigilance and veterinary intervention.
• The union called for rationalizing import operations and promoting Tunisian products.