“What’s forced is temporary”: Farmers criticize mandatory agricultural chamber membership
The agricultural chambers, established by the law that took effect on January 1, 2026, continue to spark controversy among agricultural sector representatives. Some farmers and leaders of professional organizations argue that mandatory membership undermines the project's potential from the outset, stating, "Anything that is imposed forcibly is temporary." Conversely, other representatives within the sector believe that the new structure could help consolidate agriculture and improve access to European funding.
The topic was debated during the show “Me and the European Union” on Moldova 1, where guests analyzed the impact of the new law on farmers and the practical functioning of agricultural chambers.
Explanations on the status of agricultural chambers
Sergiu Harea, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, explained that under the new law, agricultural chambers are professional associations distinct from existing chamber institutions.
“The law is in force and must be respected. Those involved in this process must manage their activities in accordance with the legal provisions,” Harea stated, adding that some aspects may need further legal clarification. He noted that models of agricultural chambers vary across European countries, and how these chambers operate in the Republic of Moldova will depend on farmers' involvement.
Farmers: Mandatory nature rejects initiative from the start
Ion Plămădeală, a farmer and former president of the "Forța Fermierilor" Association, raised concerns that the law’s mandatory membership provisions could generate distrust among farmers.
"There is an axiom in life: everything that is done by force is temporary. Forcing farmers to become members is something that will be rejected from the start," he declared.
He expressed that the law lacks clarity regarding the organization of agricultural chambers and the functioning of management structures.
"We do not have clear answers on how general assemblies will be formed, how representatives will be elected, or what resources will be available for these chambers," Plămădeală added.
Similar concerns were voiced by the executive director of the National Farmers Federation, Sergiu Veșca, who emphasized that the institution would not be viewed as representative if participation was compulsory.
"If participation is forced, it will not have any chance of success. We will spend some money, create a chamber as we have done before, and that will be the end of it. We have stated multiple times that we are not against a genuine agricultural chamber. A real chamber must consolidate all associations in the agricultural field and represent farmers,” he stated.
Executive Director, Association of Exporters and Importers of Agricultural Products and Cereals Agrocereals: Agricultural Chambers - A necessary structure for the sector
Conversely, Iurie Rija, executive director of the Association of Exporters and Importers of Agricultural Products and Cereals, asserted that the initiative could benefit the agricultural sector, given that agriculture is a vital component of the national economy. During the show, he stated that a unified structure could improve organization within the sector and strengthen dialogue with authorities.
"The Republic of Moldova has approximately half of its territory as agricultural land, and agriculture, which creates jobs, is the primary activity in villages. The core and essence of the agricultural chamber will be specific associations, as their diversity will enhance the directions we intend to strengthen," he explained, noting that the new mechanism could also facilitate access to European programs.
During the same show, former Romanian Prime Minister and former European Commissioner for Agriculture Dacian Cioloș emphasized that agricultural chambers are essential for organizing farmers, representing their interests, and accessing European funds. He insisted that these chambers must be managed exclusively by farmers, without interference from the state or politicians.
We recall that the Law on the creation of agricultural chambers in our country was promulgated and published in the Official Gazette, and was to enter into force on January 1, 2026, but several agricultural associations opposed the creation of agricultural chambers and requested its cancellation. Farmers say the structures will not be functional and will lead to the disappearance of small- and medium-sized enterprises and field associations. Also, according to them, the financial burden on farmers will increase.
Also, a group of deputies from the Our Party faction notified the Constitutional Court at the end of last year, requesting verification of the Law on the organization and functioning of agricultural chambers, which they consider abusive and contrary to the freedom of association of farmers.
On the other hand, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry rejects the accusations and claims that the law is in accordance with the Constitution and European practices.
