Greek farmers launch tractor blockades in major highway protest

GREECE – On Sunday, November 30th, Greek farmers began a coordinated wave of tractor blockades following their national assembly’s decision to step up protests.

At key points in the agricultural regions of Larissa and Karditsa in Thessaly, tractors lined up for kilometers, covering all lanes of the highways.

“We will stay here as long as it takes,” one farmer declared, “Our demands are simple and just. We cannot keep losing our livelihoods.”

Farmers overcame police barriers at highway entrances despite facing tear gas and arrests. They established makeshift camps at the blockades, signaling that these are only the first actions in an ongoing effort set to continue until at least December 5th.

The farmers want the government to reduce production costs, including offering tax-free fuel and setting a ceiling on electricity prices.

They are also calling for changes to compensation rules to cover 100% of crop losses from weather events, guaranteed minimum prices for products, investment in agricultural infrastructure, and the full payment of subsidies owed since 2024, totaling about 1 billion euros (approx US$1.08 billion).

“We cannot accept the continued reduction of CAP subsidies while money goes elsewhere. This threatens the survival of Greek farming,” said another protester.

Authorities report that, so far, goods traffic has found alternative routes, limiting immediate economic disruption. However, farmers have warned that future blockades will target additional highways, ports, airports, and customs points, increasing pressure on the government.

Greek farmers face what they describe as a historic economic dead end. Rising input costs, combined with delayed subsidies, have left many struggling to maintain their operations. Analysts warn that extended blockades could soon affect the broader supply chain, potentially slowing deliveries of essential goods across the country.

In a recent update, farmers announced plans to intensify the protest in coming days, signaling that current blockades represent only the opening of a larger campaign.

“We are not here to make noise for the sake of it,” one protester said. “We need action. Our future depends on it.”

As the standoff continues, authorities and farmers remain locked in a tense standoff, and both sides have signaled determination. Observers say the next week will be critical for both the Greek government and the agricultural sector.

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