The president of the Azorean Agricultural Federation, Jorge Rita, expressed deep concern over industry-announced milk price drops, which could lead to a €15 million revenue loss for producers in São Miguel by the end of the year.
This situation is exacerbated by imminent increases in production costs, particularly fuel, which has already seen significant rises. Several companies, including Unileite, Bel, Lactogal, Insulac, and Prolacto, have announced reductions in the prices paid to producers starting in September and August, respectively.
Rita lamented the industry's lack of support in stabilizing prices, especially at a time when production and labor costs are rising, and farmers are awaiting promised government aid, yet to be transferred, to mitigate the impact of conflicts in Ukraine and Iran.
