A tradition that gives food flavor, almost abandoned: 'Everything is at your own expense. And without support'

The traditional cultivation of garlic, once a significant agricultural activity in Romania, is now facing a critical decline, threatening to be almost abandoned. Farmers who continue to grow this essential crop are struggling with exorbitant costs and a lack of consistent governmental support. The situation is exacerbated by the uncertainty surrounding future subsidies. A program initiated to boost garlic production, which aims to provide 3,000 euros per hectare for farmers who can market at least 3 tons per hectare, has seen significant delays. While promised, the subsidy was not granted in 2025, and farmers are uncertain if it will be available in 2026. This inconsistency in support, coupled with the high expenses associated with cultivation, makes the profit margins extremely precarious. Romania, which historically aimed to reduce its significant trade deficit in garlic, now finds itself importing substantial quantities from abroad, including from the Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Egypt, and China. The Ministry of Agriculture acknowledges the growing consumer interest in fresh, quality produce, yet the unexploited potential of domestic garlic production persists due to an unlevel playing field. Data indicates a concerning drop in both cultivated area and production between 2022 and 2024, underscoring the urgent need for stable agricultural policies. The narrative of "everything is at your own expense, and without support" rings true for many farmers, highlighting a disconnect between policy intentions and on-the-ground realities. This situation is particularly poignant for Romanian agriculture, where traditional crops and farming practices are vital to the national identity and economy, yet struggle to thrive without robust and reliable state backing.