So far, around 35 million euros have been spent in Romania, according to authorities, to import 50,000 metric tonnes of tomatoes. In return, only around 3,000 metric tonnes worth two million euros will be exported. This is despite the fact that Romania farming, climate-wise, is predestined for vegetable production and especially tomato production, according to experts. That is why the foreign trade balance in the vegetable sector should change as a result of the "tomato program" launched this year, which has initially been planned for eight years.
Petar Daea, Bucharest's Agricultural Minister, says that an increase in production is expected with tomatoes grown in greenhouses and open-air spaces with a good micro-climate. However, there are various requirements for such spaces, one being that a working area of at least 1,000m² is needed; additionally certain sales obligations must be met. In return, the growers would receive subsidies of about 3,000 euros a year, according to Daea. The per capita consumption of tomatoes amounts to 31kg a year in Romania.
Source: Proplanta