We Must Preserve Agricultural Income to Keep Local Economies Alive

In the garlic production hub of Changnyeong, South Gyeongsang Province, the garlic auction price at the "early harvest ceremony" held in late June, ahead of the full-scale garlic distribution, fell far short of farmers' expectations and production costs. Farmers had hoped for a price around 4,500 won per kg (for top-grade produce), but the average price remained in the 4,100 won range. Farmers facing the main garlic distribution period strongly expressed their dissatisfaction, stating they would not hesitate to hold a protest rally against the government to demand garlic price stabilization if auction prices continue to remain low. Previously, the National Garlic Producers Association held a press conference condemning the purchase price, calling for the government and agricultural cooperatives to guarantee production costs and improve distribution after Namdo-type garlic was set at a contract purchase price of 3,500 won by the Muan Agricultural Cooperative in South Jeolla ...