Is 'Suspended Wheat' a solution? Reactions to Bahçeli continue

The "Suspended 9 Gülek Wheat Project," launched by MHP Chairman Devlet Bahçeli to support farmers and low-income citizens, has sparked controversy. Baki Remzi Suiçmez, Chairman of the Chamber of Agricultural Engineers, stated that the project would not be a solution to the structural problems in agriculture, adding that expecting support from farmers is an indicator that agricultural policies have failed.

Suiçmez emphasized that production costs in Turkey are high while agricultural subsidies are insufficient, noting that farmers are already crushed under costs and are withdrawing from production. Stating that subsidies provided to farmers remain low during a period of high inflation, Suiçmez also expressed that the wheat purchasing policies of the Turkish Grain Board (TMO) have left producers in a difficult situation.

'THE SOLUTION LIES IN PRODUCTION POLICIES'

Stating that there are many question marks regarding the project, Suiçmez asked, "Where will the collected wheat be stored? Which bakeries will turn this wheat into bread, and at what price will it be sold?" Emphasizing that the real solution is to encourage farmers to produce, make concrete reductions in agricultural inputs, and increase support for producers, Suiçmez said that current agricultural policies must be reorganized.

Suiçmez noted that the problems in agricultural production are not limited to wheat, stating that producers are also in a difficult situation regarding basic food products such as meat, milk, vegetables, and fruits. Noting that agricultural policies should be reorganized to protect both producers and consumers, Suiçmez said, "Such projects may create awareness, but real solutions are only possible by correcting production policies."