Romania draft law: Supermarkets must sell more local produce

BUCHAREST - 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 yesterday, 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.