Representatives of the 27 Member States of the European Union (EU) and the European Parliament (EP) have reached a preliminary agreement on the reform of EU agricultural policy.
The agreement was reached after long negotiations, in which the main differences were caused by environmental issues.
“The agreement paves the way for a simpler, fairer and more environmentally friendly CAP [kopīgajai Lauksaimniecības politikai], which will ensure a sustainable future for European farmers, “said the Portuguese presidency of the EU.
EC Vice-President Frans Timmermans said the agreement marked a real turn towards a greener and fairer common agricultural policy.
“It’s not perfect, but it’s still a big step in the right direction,” he added.
The agreement has yet to be approved by EU agriculture ministers, which could take place on Monday.
The new budget for the common agricultural policy covers the period from 2023 to 2027. The total budget is EUR 387 billion and also includes a two-year transition period in 2021 and 2022, which have already been agreed.
The budget is € 270 billion for direct aid to European farmers.
The 27 EU member states approved the reform of the common agricultural policy as early as October last year, but the details have yet to be agreed with MEPs.
The agreement has so far been hampered mainly by disagreements over special premiums for more environmentally friendly farmers.
MEPs initially wanted at least 30% of direct payments to be allocated to these premiums, but EU member states insisted on 20%. As a result, it was decided to allocate 25% per annum to these allowances.
MEPs and representatives of EU member states also agreed to punish farmers who do not respect workers’ rights. They will be able to reduce their payments.
Environmentalists have criticized the agreement, arguing that farmers should be more demanding of environmental protection.
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