The Minister of Infrastructure visited Maag Food’s Põlva factory

2. December 2025

Recently, the Estonian Minister of Infrastructure, Kuldar Leis, visited our Põlva factory. The purpose of the visit was to get acquainted with the daily work and operations of the Põlva plant. In addition, we wished to present the minister with some of our concerns — in particular the issue of additional wastewater treatment fees, which is important for local industry and requires fairer and more flexible solutions in cooperation with the municipality.

According to Tea Mey, Head of Maag Food’s Põlva factory, Kuldar Leis has a very personal connection to the plant. “Kuldar Leis is from Põlva, and his professional journey actually began right here at Põlva Piim. After completing his studies in dairy product technology at the Õisu Technical School, his first position was in the powder department of our dairy plant. During the meeting, we spoke to the minister about the factory’s development, everyday work, and also the challenges related to additional wastewater treatment charges. Our goal is not to dispute the current regulations but to discuss with the municipality possible more flexible solutions that take into account both environmental requirements and the situation of local industry,” Tea explained, adding that of course the meeting also included personal recollections and the joy of a warm reunion. In addition to the minister, the meeting was attended by Põlva municipal mayor Martti Rõigas and members of the minister’s delegation.

The Minister of Infrastructure was also given a tour of the production facilities, which took place in a very cheerful and friendly atmosphere — many places and faces were familiar to him from earlier, adding a homely feeling to the visit. According to Tea, Kuldar Leis felt at home in Põlva, took time to listen and discuss, and left a sincere and cooperative impression. “It was clear that he genuinely cared about our joys and concerns and wanted to understand them. The visit was definitely a success and gave us hope that our issues will continue to move forward in future discussions,” Tea concluded.