Representatives from 13 local communities said that the drought has re-emerged the need for irrigation infrastructure. It was stated that producers and the relevant ministry must secure funding for the establishment of irrigation systems, otherwise the future of the agricultural sector in Republika Srpska is uncertain.
Union President Dragoja Dojčinović has announced that the fruit production budget will be increased from the current 5 million KM to 7–8 million KM next year, and that a consistent, fixed subsidy will be implemented for fruit sold. Producers also requested a review of capital investment measures related to tractor purchases.
A subsidy will also be requested for self-propelled harvesting platforms to address labor shortages. According to Dojčinović, with these platforms, 6–8 workers can collect 20 tons of fruit per day; this amount corresponds to four to five times the current capacity.
