Thousands of farmers in Serbia are blocking roads to demand higher subsidies and protection against cheap imports.

Thousands of farmers in Serbia organized protests on Tuesday, blocking over 40 main roads to demand higher subsidies and protection against cheap agricultural product imports, especially milk and pork. The protests began in the southwest of the country and quickly spread.

Farmers, who are facing selling prices below sustainable levels, are calling for faster payments and temporary import restrictions to protect their incomes. Agriculture Minister Dragan Glamocic stated that farmers did not come to discussions to find solutions.

The protests coincide with broader anti-government movements, and farmers are expressing their dissatisfaction with President Aleksandar Vucic. Agriculture accounts for 6.1% of Serbia's GDP and 20% of the workforce, and the country aspires to join the European Union.