Estimated read time: Less than a minute
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
BUCHAREST, Romania (AP) — Romanian senators have adopted draft legislation obliging supermarkets to sell more meat and produce from the country in a bid to support local farmers.
According to the draft law passed Tuesday, 51 percent of meat, fruit and vegetables sold in supermarkets will have to be produced or grown in Romania. Violators could face fines of up to 50,000 lei ($12,700).
Ruling Social Democratic Party spokeswoman Gabriela Firea said the measure aims to support local producers, create jobs and raise revenues.
Taking into account seasonal fluctuations, the draft law allows supermarkets to be able to sell a higher proportion of imported fruit and vegetables in the winter.
It was unclear whether the law, which needs to be adopted by the Chamber of Deputies before becoming law, meets market competition rules.
Copyright © The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.