Smotrich signed a decree increasing the quota for duty-free imports of cheese

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich signed a decree expanding import quotas for hard and yellow cheeses by approximately 70%.

The draft decree was released for public comment two months ago after farmers refused to attend discussions with Smotrich on sector reform.

Smotrich justified the decision to open the market to imports even before the completion of the reform by saying that he wants to immediately increase competition in this category.

According to the decree, the duty-free quota will increase from 11,500 tons per year to 19,500 tons. The quota increase will take effect immediately and will be valid for two years, while the Minister of Finance reserves the right to extend the decree in accordance with developments in the market.