As part of the recent EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council’s meeting held in Brussels, Belgium, ministers discussed the new vision for the agricultural and food sector, which was announced by the European Commission (EC) in February.
This ambitious vision for the EU's agricultural sector focuses on four key areas, aiming to make farming more attractive to younger generations, who will play a crucial role in securing the industry's future.
The vision seeks to enhance the competitiveness and adaptability of the agricultural sector, helping European businesses withstand global market fluctuations and ensuring that EU agriculture aligns with future development trends. It also emphasises the improvement of living and working conditions in rural areas, where many communities depend on agriculture.
Notably, the EU’s vision highlights the urgent need for climate action in agriculture and calls for adjustments to direct payments under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) to ensure fairer income support and reward farmers who work in harmony with nature.
EU member states have expressed strong support for this new vision, recognising agriculture as a strategic sector and encouraging young people to pursue farming careers.
The EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council also praised the emphasis on ensuring fair incomes for farmers and enhancing the competitiveness of the agricultural sector.
Polish Agriculture Minister Czesław Siekierski, whose country currently holds the rotating Presidency of the EU Council, affirmed Poland's full support for the objectives set by the European Commission (EC) in the agriculture and food sector vision. However, he stressed that the EU must allocate an appropriate and dedicated budget for the CAP and ensure active participation of farmers in policy planning and implementation. He emphasised that all decisions must be made with consultation and input from those directly working in the agricultural sector.
According to experts, this vision is taking cautious yet significant steps toward creating a fairer and more sustainable EU food supply chain. It includes several positive elements, such as a stronger commitment to enforcing green laws and financial incentives for farmers. However, a clear roadmap is still needed for the EU's food system transition.
Notably, the vision stressed the enhancement of the competitiveness and resilience of the livestock sector by announcing the development of a long-term strategy to establish an excellent livestock production chain. In shaping policy pathways for this sector, the European Commission (EC) will consider the "ecological footprint" (the environmental impact of production activities) and focus on improving nutrient management.
However, experts stress the need for a concrete plan to reduce synthetic fertilisers and introduce policies supporting access to more sustainable and healthier food options.
Agriculture accounts for 11% of the EU’s total greenhouse gas emissions and is seen as a key contributor to achieving the bloc’s climate goals. As a result, the EU’s vision is expected to shape a sustainable and equitable future for European agriculture.
