Violent clashes erupted between farmers and police outside the Thessaloniki International Exhibition Centre. Protesters attempted to force their way into the 31st edition of the Agrotica trade fair, pelting officers with oranges.

Attempt to storm the trade fair

A group of demonstrators attempted to forcibly break through the police cordon and breach the opening ceremony of the 31st Agrotica trade fair.

Intervention by MAT units

Greek riot police units (MAT) used force to prevent the crowd from disrupting the inauguration ceremonies.

Farmers' demands

Protesters are demanding that the government lower production costs, increase subsidies, and reduce energy prices.

Violent clashes broke out on Thursday between protesting farmers and riot police units outside the Thessaloniki International Exhibition Centre. A group of demonstrators attempted to force their way onto the premises during the official opening ceremony of the 31st Agrotica trade fair. Officers from the MAT units formed a cordon, effectively blocking access to the exhibition halls. Various objects, including citrus fruits, were thrown at the police. The Agrotica trade fair is one of the most important events in the agricultural sector in Southeastern Europe, held regularly in Thessaloniki since 1926. This year's 31st edition attracted a record number of over 1,500 exhibitors from 42 countries. Agricultural protests in Greece are cyclical and typically intensify during the winter and early spring, focusing on demands to lower production costs.

The situation escalated when farmers tried to break through the ELAS police cordon to enter the inauguration ceremony. During the incidents, protesters used oranges as "ammunition," pelting the officers guarding the entrance. Police used direct force measures to repel the advancing crowd and maintain the safety of guests attending the opening. Despite the tense atmosphere outside the building, the ceremonies inside were not interrupted.

The exhibition was officially opened by Rural Development and Food Minister Kostas Tsiaras, who in his speech addressed the challenges facing the sector. The protesting farmers are primarily demanding increased subsidies and real support in the face of rising energy and fertilizer costs. The demonstration in Thessaloniki is part of a broader wave of discontent that has affected farmers' unions from northern Greece. Agrotica 2026 Trade Fair Statistics: 1. Number of exhibitors — 1500+; 2. Number of countries — 42; 3. Event edition — 31.

Timeline of the protest in Thessaloniki: March 12, morning — Farmers gather; March 12, afternoon — Convoy to the fairgrounds; March 12, 18:00 — Attempted storming; March 12, evening — Inauguration

Mentioned People

  • Kostas Tsiaras — Minister of Rural Development and Food, member of New Democracy, former Minister of Justice.