Madrid – On Thursday, European Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, Christophe Hansen, emphasized the need for enhanced protection of the agricultural sector amid its ongoing challenges during his visit to Spain. He introduced the EU’s new strategy aimed at securing the future of agriculture and food.
Following the unveiling of the roadmap in Brussels on Wednesday, Hansen convened in Madrid with the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Luis Planas, along with regional ministers related to the sector.
“Europe is committed to safeguarding the agri-food sector from unfair competition,” Hansen declared while presenting the new document, urging member countries to stay “united” in the face of geopolitical stresses.
The commissioner pledged ongoing support for farmers and the broader food supply chain, while also focusing on shielding the sector from the impacts of climate change through collaboration with the European Investment Bank and reforms to the agricultural reserve.
He articulated a vision for a sector that is “attractive, competitive, and future-ready, operating in synergy with nature,” which is also “fair and more sustainable” across environmental, economic, and social dimensions.
A Streamlined CAP
Moreover, Hansen announced plans to introduce two simplification packages for the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) this year, starting with the first package in the spring.
During a press conference, he explained that CAP funding from 2027 onward will largely depend on negotiations with member states regarding their contributions. He argued for a “specific and adequate budget for agriculture.”
Spain’s Stance
Minister Planas indicated Spain’s support for increasing the European budget to address challenges related to security, industry, and the agri-food sector.
“We advocate for a CAP that operates under a distinct budget, with two pillars, tailored to meet various challenges effectively,” he stated.
The Spanish minister highlighted that the European Commission’s roadmap aligns with Spain’s priorities, addressing key issues like ensuring fair prices in agriculture and providing support for those most in need, particularly small farms and family-owned operations.
He asserted that Brussels aims to encourage “more positive” policies, focusing on aid, incentives, and innovative income streams for the agricultural sector without prohibitions.
Planas also stressed that imports must not utilize banned phytosanitary products in the EU for production nor have these sold abroad.
In discussions with regional ministers, Hansen advocated for bolstering agricultural production in various regions, acknowledging the distinct challenges they face, such as drought and generational transitions.
“The Spanish agri-food sector holds strategic importance at both European and global levels,” Hansen noted.
After the meeting, Ramón Fernández-Pacheco, the Andalusian Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, expressed optimism about the new European Commission’s approach. Meanwhile, Julián Martínez, the Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, and Rural Development for Castilla La-Mancha, requested clarity on the financial implications of the new community initiatives.
Óscar Ordeig, Catalonia’s Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Food Minister, advocated for a greater emphasis on family agriculture and the simplification of the CAP. Additionally, José María Aierdi, Secretary for Rural Development and Environment in Navarra, called for streamlined procedures and import controls.
Narvay Quintero, Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries for the Canary Islands, conveyed to the commissioner the urgent need to refresh the funding for the Posei program to secure the future of agriculture in outermost regions.
Trip to Valencia
Hansen is scheduled to visit Valencia tomorrow alongside Planas to offer support to farmers impacted by the floods last October.
Of the 68 million euros allocated to Spain from the CAP crisis reserve, 15 million will be directed towards the 185,000 hectares severely affected by drought, while the remaining 53 million will assist 112 municipalities that sustained flood damage, according to Luis Planas.
The minister also announced the mobilization of an additional 10.6 million euros in aid for 1,136 affected producers. (February 20)
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