In the Alicante province, a new tractor unit has emerged amid rising concerns within Vega Baja’s agricultural sector. The convoy, consisting of roughly fifty tractors, hones in on the difficult conditions faced by farmers as it makes its way through the regional road network. The demonstration is designed to draw attention to ongoing struggles in the sector and to highlight how precarious circumstances affect everyday agricultural work. The route begins near Lomas del Granadilla in the San Isidro industrial area and is planned to pass through several municipalities, including Albatera, Cox, and Almoradí, as part of a broader message to policymakers and the public.
As with the prior Tuesday, calls to protest from another tractor-trailer circuit operating between Albatera and Orihuela circulated via social media and informal channels rather than through major professional agricultural bodies. Organizations such as AVA-ASaja, La Unió, COAG, UPA-PV, and Asaja Alicante have publicly distanced themselves from these actions, noting that while the grievances are legitimate, the execution and timing of mobilizations must align with established procedures. José Vicente Andreu, speaking for one of the groups, affirmed: the demands deserve attention, but the method and timing should be coordinated to ensure orderly demonstrations that respect legal channels. The concern is that spontaneous mobilizations risk undermining the credibility of the message and complicating compliance with applicable regulations.
Originally slated for February 12, protest events organized by major associations were rescheduled to February 16, with the Government Sub-Delegation requiring formal authorization for the gatherings. The plan outlines two highway disruptions: one on the A-7 near Orihuela and another on the A-31 near Villena. The objective remains to give visibility to regions where agribusiness activity is strongest and to emphasize the fiscal and operational damage endured by the sector in areas most affected by deteriorating market conditions and resource constraints. These actions aim to spotlight the regional disparities in agricultural opportunity and to press officials for immediate relief and long-term policy responses that can stabilize prices, supply chains, and rural livelihoods.
Asaja Alicante has underscored the specific challenges facing Vega Baja, noting persistent issues such as depressed prices, unfair competition, and water scarcity that compound the difficulties of farmers. In addition, the region of Alto Vinalopó has seen disruptions to harvests in recent years, with two emblematic crops—cherries and grains—bearing the brunt of fluctuating demand and climatic variability. Initially, organizers recommended securing the necessary permissions from the Government Sub-Delegation before proceeding, a step aimed at maintaining lawful conduct and ensuring that demonstrations can be communicated clearly to the public and to authorities. The evolving situation illustrates the ongoing tension between agricultural advocacy and regulatory processes, and it emphasizes the need for transparent dialogue that can lead to practical solutions for producers across Vega Baja and neighboring districts.