The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Forestry defended on the island of Terceira the importance of dialogue between milk production and industry as a way of overcoming the constraints caused by the limits imposed on producers, a situation that has been perpetuated, at least, since 2015. 

“This situation, as we know, is quite harmful for some milk producers. In fact, the existence of production rights is still a reality on the island of Terceira," João Ponte said, adding that the Regional Government, in addition to following this particular situation with concern, is assessing it and trying to create conditions so that all those involved can dialogue for the benefit of the sector and farmers. 

The government official spoke Monday at the end of a meeting with the board of UNICOL. On the occasion, he considered that the most important thing at this stage is to continue working in harmony, proposing constructive solutions and not defending positions that contribute to the division of the dairy sector.

“What matters in this area is to work persistently so that we can continue to dialogue and seek solutions that are less detrimental to producers. This is achieved with dialogue and collaboration," said João Ponte. 

The Regional Secretary stressed that the situation of the dairy sector was already challenging. However, the challenge grew even more during the pandemic, with the reduction in the price of milk at European level, the change in consumption habits and the decrease in purchasing power, among other aspects that end up having an effect on the regional dairy sector. 

On the part of the Regional Government, João Ponte emphasised the “serious, permanent and dedicated effort” that has been undertaken towards the development and sustainability of the dairy sector, always in coordination and permanent dialogue with farmers, the Azores Agricultural Federation and dairy industries. 

The reduction of cattle herds and milk production by 20% while maintaining the same level of aid under the POSEI programme, the possibility of converting dairy farms to beef production, through the allocation of suckler cow premium rights on islands such as São Miguel, Terceira and Graciosa, or the new scheme for the cessation of agricultural activity, more beneficial for those who want to cease the activity, are measures that give a clear sign of hope in the future. Additionally, they will also contribute to the restructuring of the dairy sector in the Azores.