Urgent measures needed to protect the onion industry

[Korean Farmers and Fishermen Newspaper] Onion farmers held a gathering in front of the Government Sejong Office, urging the government to establish measures to protect the domestic onion industry. This comes as the industry faces a severe crisis due to prolonged price slumps and sluggish consumption, increased imports, and rising production costs. The area of land intended for onion cultivation in 2026 was surveyed at 16,952 hectares, a 7% decrease compared to the average year. Wholesale market prices are formed at 100 to 200 won lower per kilogram compared to the average year, causing concerns among farmers that even production costs may not be covered, leading them to abandon cultivation or reduce farming scale. The surge in imported onions also dampens the farmers' morale. According to producer organizations, the market exit price for imported onions is 1,050 won per kilogram, and the actual wholesale price is around 1,100 won, which is higher than the domestic price of around ...