EU: greater flexibility and support for farmers

The European Parliament approved on Tuesday new rules that introduce greater flexibility and support for farmers in the implementation of the EU's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). The preliminary agreement, reached between Parliament and Council negotiators on 10 November, was supported by 629 MEPs, with 17 votes against and 16 abstentions. One of the main measures is the support for small farmers. It was agreed that small agricultural holdings can receive up to 3,000 euros annually, up from the 2,500 euros initially proposed by the Commission, in addition to a single payment of up to 75,000 euros for the development of the activity (instead of the proposed 50,000 euros). With regard to environmental requirements, the new rules ensure that land classified as arable from 1 January 2026 will retain this designation, even if it is not ploughed, cultivated or sown again. Furthermore, farmers certified as organic will automatically be considered in compliance with the requirements of ...