EU agriculture ministers meet to focus on securing EU food security and sovereignty

Last January 7, EU agricultural ministers met in an extraordinary meeting, on the invitation of the European Commission and Minister Maria Panayiotou for the Cypriot Presidency of the Council. The Commission was represented at this meeting by Commissioners Hansen, Šefčovič and Várhelyi.

Recognising that agriculture is crucial for European sovereignty and that the EU agri-food sector is key to European competitiveness through millions of jobs and added value, the participants took stock of the challenges facing farmers and the agri-food sector, and exchanged views on their expectations for 2026. Discussions focused on concerns arising from heightened volatility and uncertainty in the global markets, as well as on the need to preserve a strong competitive position of European farmers.

The EU is aware of its responsibility and fully recognises the sense of urgency felt in the sector. This is why actions have been directed towards alleviating pressures and creating new opportunities. The outcomes of the meeting are structured as follows:

1. Securing CAP support: budget and Multiannual Financial Framework post-2027
2. Fertilisers: improving availability and affordability, strengthening domestic production, and reducing dependencies
3. Global competitiveness: opportunities, level playing field and reciprocity
4. Further simplification for the benefit of the farmers

Food security is a key component of the EU’s overall security and sovereignty. The future of farming and a competitive agrifood sector in Europe therefore needs to be ensured. The EU stands ready to act where needed, in the short and longer term. It will continue to rigorously defend its interests in the area of farming and food security and turn the Vision for agriculture and food into reality.

More information: European Commission