Farmers rally in Barcelona to demand urgent action to save the sector

More than 1,000 farmers and around 200 tractors gathered in central Barcelona on Wednesday to demand urgent measures to tackle rising production costs and what they describe as a farming sector "on the ropes."

The demonstration, organised by the Farmers' Union – Unió de Pagesos (UP) – called for a dedicated agricultural diesel rate, fairer prices and an end to agricultural policy based on "a piecemeal approach."

"We need structural measures that make professional farming an essential and strategic sector for the country," said UP's national coordinator, Raquel Serrat, who urged action from "all levels of government."

"We are prepared not to let up; it is time to say enough is enough," she added.

Farmers say soaring fuel and fertiliser costs, extreme weather and low prices are threatening the viability of farms, while the loss of agricultural businesses and a lack of young people entering the profession add to concerns about the sector's future.

In a manifesto presented outside the Spanish government's delegation in Catalonia, UP called for emergency payments of between €8,500 and €17,000 for farms affected by climate damage, rising costs or low prices.

The union also demanded reduced VAT on agricultural production, lower electricity tariffs for irrigation, less bureaucracy and stronger enforcement of food supply chain rules to ensure farmers are not forced to sell below production costs.

Protesters travelled from across Catalonia by tractor, bus and car, converging on Barcelona from the north and south.