Updated 14:30 GMT with comments from Meir Yifrach, IFA
A proposed strike by fresh produce suppliers in response to recent changes to the Israeli government's policy on foreign workers is threatening to derail industry operations at the start of the country's export season for tomatoes and peppers.
According to industry sources, growers are poised to cease operations towards the end of next week, a move which would lead to major shortages of Israeli fresh fruit and vegetables across the country's retail markets and supermarkets from the following weekend onwards.
For the export trade meanwhile, it remains unclear what immediate impact such a move would have, although the fear is that volumes of newly harvested vegetables destined for overseas markets in particular could be impeded.
Israel's main farmer unions and the government recently reached agreement for around 29,000 foreign workers to be granted permission to work in the country – a resource regarded as essential by the fresh produce sector – but reports suggest the government has cut that quota, with only around 21,000 workers currently available.
'No one really wants this strike, particularly the growers as the export season starts,' one industry insider told Fruitnet.com.
Israeli Farmers Association (IFA) chairman Meir Yifrach told reporters that the strike by fruit and vegetable suppliers was scheduled to take place on 22-23 November.
Addressing members of the IFA, he said the organisation had already exhausted all other possible courses of action.
'This radical action is the only way we see fit to express our disgust and anger,' he said. 'It's justified in light of the cuts in the number of workers, in breach of agreements reached with sector policy-makers.'
He added: 'Therefore we urge each and every one of you to volunteer and contribute to the success of the strike.'
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