Murcia's Farmers Cry Foul: Green Pact or Green Desert?

Murcia's Agricultural Sector Faces Challenges Amidst Green Pact Debate Murcia, Spain – The implementation of the European Green Pact is creating significant challenges for the agricultural sector in the Region of Murcia, according to a recent interview with the President of VOX Murcia, Juan José Antelo. Antelo argues that the pact's focus on reducing water usage and limiting intensive farming practices is directly impacting the region's ability to produce food. "The Green Pact, agreed upon by both socialists and populares, mandates that rivers flow through their natural courses, prohibiting damming or water transfers," Antelo stated. "This leaves the Region of Murcia with insufficient water for drinking, let alone agriculture." He further explained that the resulting decrease in local production is leading to increased reliance on imports, particularly from Morocco. Antelo criticized the pact's promotion of agroecology over intensive farming, arguing that it goes against Murcia's productive model. He pointed to the influx of Moroccan tomatoes, often with diseases, as a direct consequence. "The Moroccan tomato, subsidized for transport, undermines our food security and sovereignty," he added. The situation underscores the complex balance between environmental sustainability and economic viability in the agricultural sector. The debate over the Green Pact's impact on Murcia's agriculture is likely to continue as farmers grapple with the consequences of these policies.