Pelagonia farmers block Prilep–Bitola road, demand unpaid subsidies
Protesters halted traffic near Topolchani on 30 September 2026, seeking payment of overdue subsidies and extra support for milk producers.
Farmers from the Pelagonia region carried out a planned protest on 30 September 2026 and completely blocked the Prilep–Bitola road near Topolchani for about one and a half hours.
Who joined and why
The action included livestock breeders, gardeners, vine growers and other agricultural producers from the surrounding municipalities. Protesters said the blockade was prompted by delays in state subsidies, a fall in the purchase price for milk and rising production costs.
Livestock breeders reported that premiums for delivered milk and per-head subsidies have not been paid. They also demanded additional support calculated per litre of milk delivered to processors.
Participants warned that farmers are financially exhausted and that the situation in the sector is becoming unsustainable, particularly with autumn sowing about to begin. They demanded immediate payment of outstanding subsidies and increased support for both crop and livestock production.
Organisers said the protest lasted roughly 90 minutes before traffic was reopened. The demonstration follows actions by farmers from Strumica, and Pelagonia livestock breeders have announced a possible blockade at the Medzitlija border crossing if their demands are not addressed.
Photo: press material from the event
