Pig breeders want subsidies to offset low purchasing prices and growing costs of breeding.

"Neighbouring countries have taken similar steps. If they are not introduced here, pig breeding will be reduced, self-sufficiency in meat production will decrease, imports will grow and so will prices," said.

Farmers plan a rally in front of the Agriculture Ministry for November 23.

Gandalovic said pig breeders should overcome the problems themselves. He said he would present his opinion at a meeting with farmers on Tuesday.

"There are no alternatives. Fodder is 40 percent more expensive than last year. Production costs per kilo of live weight reach Kc35, but the market price is about Kc29," said Jaroslav Hajda from the Czech Association of Pig Breeders.

Farmers demand a more active approach from the ministry, urging the cabinet to draw inspiration from neighbouring countries.

Losses in Czech pig breeding are estimated at Kc2 billion this year.