EU agriculture ministers back new support measures for farmers

During the 23 June meeting of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council, EU agriculture ministers discussed the market situation in the agricultural sector against a backdrop of the war in Ukraine, geopolitical developments, climate-related risks and animal health challenges, all of which continue to put pressure on farmers' incomes and increase the costs of food production, transport, storage and distribution.

The discussion opened with a virtual intervention by Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration, Taras Kachka, who outlined the current situation of Ukraine's agricultural sector and the challenges it is facing.

Ministers also reviewed the European Commission's recently presented action plan, which includes targeted measures to help EU farmers cope with the challenges arising from the situation in the Middle East and to ensure access to essential inputs, particularly fertilisers, enabling the continued production of affordable food.

In this context, the Cypriot Presidency highlighted the constructive approach shown by member states in supporting the Council's intention to adopt the Commission's proposals without amendments, provided the European Parliament follows the same approach. This would allow EU producers to benefit from the measures as quickly as possible. Ministers expressed their support for this approach and looked forward to the swift implementation of the plan.