Cojocaru said most producers have already invested in modernizing their dairy farms and a new derogation application would be a “slap” for Romania and its local milk industry.
“During talks with the Ministry of Agriculture no processor said anything about wanting a new derogation. Everyone said they made investments, accessed European funds to clean up and upgrade their farms. I’m surprised the minister said Romania could ask for a new derogation. What for?” said Cojocaru.
Earlier Thursday, Agriculture Minister Daniel Constantin said the ministry was considering asking the European Union for a new derogation on the processing of non-standard milk.
“Romania has had three derogations for the processing of non-standard milk and the last expires in January 1, 2014. We are currently analyzing to see whether we need further derogation,” the minister said, adding 10% of the milk produced in Romania is not in line with EU standards.