The European Commission last July 15 published the first comprehensive evaluation of the Nitrates Directive since its adoption in 1991. Covering more than 30 years of implementation, the evaluation shows that EU rules remain effective to protect Europe’s waters from agricultural nitrate pollution. It also identifies opportunities to simplify its implementation, reduce administrative burden and improve outcomes for both farmers and the environment. This is accompanied […]
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The Commission adopts simpler rules for the EU’s agri-food promotion policy
The European Commission has adopted simpler rules for the EU’s agri-food promotion policy, reducing the administrative and financial requirements for beneficiaries and Member States. These changes will make it easier to implement the programmes and will benefit organisations applying for EU funding. Drawing on 10 years’ experience in managing these programmes, the amendment streamlines administrative […]
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The Commission sets out guidelines for a thriving livestock sector and a self-sufficient protein system
The European Commission has adopted the Livestock Strategy to ensure that Europe’s valuable livestock sector remains strong and resilient in the long term. This strategy, the first of its kind, sets out measures to help livestock farmers tackle economic, environmental and market challenges. This long-term vision recognises the vital role of sustainable livestock farming in […]
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A Commission report highlights the achievements of EU animal health standards
Ten years after its adoption, the European Commission has published an evaluation of EU legislation on animal health. The evaluation and the accompanying report highlight the positive impact the legislation has had on combating animal diseases, whilst also identifying areas for improvement. Animal diseases can have devastating consequences for livestock farmers and rural communities, and […]
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EU agricultural markets remain robust despite uncertainty and rising input costs
EU agricultural markets are expected to remain strong in 2026, according to the summer 2026 edition of the report on the short-term outlook for EU agricultural markets, published today by the European Commission. It should be noted that this report does not take into account the current heatwaves, which are severely affecting farmers across Europe, […]
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The Commission welcomes the political agreement on seeds and other plant reproductive material
The European Commission welcomes the political agreement reached last night by the Council of the EU and the European Parliament on the revision and simplification of EU legislation on plant reproductive material (PRM). Today’s agreement modernises the current legislation, enabling producers and businesses to benefit from the latest innovations, technologies and digitalisation in this field. […]
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The Commission is proposing financial support for farmers facing the fertiliser crisis
The European Commission has unveiled decisive measures to help farmers affected by the sharp rise in fertiliser costs and to support Europe’s food security, as part of the recently announced Fertiliser Action Plan. In recent months, geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions have driven up fertiliser prices across Europe. To address this situation, the Commission is […]
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Four Spanish food products have been added to the EU’s register of geographical indications
The European Commission has reached a significant milestone in the protection of Europe’s food and drink heritage. With the addition of thirteen new products to the register, the EU now officially protects more than 3,700 geographical indications (GIs) and continues to lead the world in protecting tradition, promoting sustainability and recognising excellence. The new GIs […]
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The Commission approves €500 million in Spanish state aid for agricultural businesses affected by higher fertiliser prices
The European Commission has approved a Spanish state aid scheme worth €500 million to help agricultural businesses facing higher fertiliser prices due to the crisis in the Middle East. The scheme has been approved under the Temporary Framework for Aid in Response to the Crisis in the Middle East (METSAF), which the Commission adopted on […]
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