The Ministry detailed a set of proactive and important measures directed by the Minister to support farmers and ease their burden. The cornerstone of these measures is ensuring the availability of agricultural production inputs at suitable prices, including subsidized fertilizers for eligible farmers, high-quality selected seeds, and pesticides.
The Ministry stressed the government's commitment to
supplying subsidized fertilizers to eligible farmers without any price
increase. Coordination has been completed with relevant entities and factories
to ensure the delivery of the entire winter season's requirement at the
subsidized price through agricultural cooperatives.
In addition, an appropriate quantity of fertilizers will be
supplied at the free market price for those whose land ownership exceeds 25 feddans
(acres). This dual approach aims to prevent any local market crisis and maintain
balance, supporting farmers while encouraging the industry. The government
confirmed it would cover the subsidy difference resulting from rising gas
prices to relieve factories that commit to supplying their full subsidized
quotas on schedule.
Minister Farouk emphasized the importance of completing inventory,
verifying planted areas, and intensifying monitoring and inspection of all
agricultural cooperatives and subsidized fertilizer distribution outlets.
Distribution must strictly follow the system via the 'Farmer
Card' to ensure fertilizers reach farmers at the designated price without any
unauthorized increase. Cooperatives are strictly prohibited from collecting any
additional fees or linking the fertilizer disbursement process to the purchase
of other supplies. The Ministry also directed that fertilizer quotas and
disbursement dates be clearly posted at cooperative headquarters to ensure
transparency.
The Minister announced the release of appropriate quantities
of certified seeds and varieties for strategic winter crops, notably wheat,
sugar beet, and clover. These high-yielding, disease-resistant varieties are
intended to encourage farmers, protect plant wealth, and increase productivity,
thereby boosting farmers' incomes.
Farouk also stressed ensuring the availability of safe and
recommended pesticides to combat pests and diseases. Furthermore, intensive agricultural
extension campaigns will be launched in various governorates, especially
strategic crop areas, to educate farmers on best practices, modern techniques,
optimal planting times, modern irrigation methods, and balanced fertilization
techniques to reduce costs and increase yield.
He directed agricultural extension engineers and researchers
to increase field visits for timely crop monitoring and immediate support to
farmers facing challenges. He pointed out that good seasonal preparation is key
to easing the burden on farmers and fostering a conducive production
environment, especially for wheat, which is a cornerstone of national food
security.
Finally, the Minister confirmed that agricultural machinery
is being made available to farmers at reduced prices. This includes the
equipment necessary for harvesting and planting, aiming to reduce effort, time,
and cost, while increasing the efficiency and quality of farming operations.
Minister Farouk urged all Egyptian farmers to adhere to
technical recommendations and benefit from the subsidized inputs and extension
services provided by the state.
Notably, Minister Farouk recently extended the deadline for receiving summer season fertilizer quotas by 10 additional days, to end on October 10 instead of September 30, to ensure farmers receive their entitled subsidized fertilizers and avoid bottlenecks.