The European Commission has formally adopted the Fertiliser Action Plan, an initiative to support farmers facing rising fertiliser prices and supply shortages, while also strengthening domestic production and reducing Europe’s dependence on imports.
The plan, which was developed in response to recent supply disruptions and price volatility, combines short-term financial support measures with longer-term proposals to increase fertiliser production within Europe and encourage the use of bio-based, low-carbon and circular fertilisers.
‘Stronger industry’
“With this Action Plan, we are investing in a stronger European fertiliser industry, supporting European farmers and accelerating innovation in sustainable, home-grown solutions,” commented Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission.
“The ongoing fossil fuel crisis shows that climate leadership and economic resilience are interlinked. This is why Europe is building a future based on sustainability, affordability and industrial strength.”
Under the terms of the plan, the Commission will deliver ‘targeted exceptional support’ to farmers facing high fertiliser costs through existing instruments under the EU’s agricultural policy.
It added that it will propose reinforcing the EU agricultural reserve through the EU budget ahead of the next production cycle to provide liquidity support for farmers.
A legislative package will also be introduced to allow Member States to make greater use of support under the Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plans.
Measures under the package will include a new liquidity scheme, greater flexibility for advance payments and incentives for farming practices that reduce fertiliser use, improve nutrient efficiency and support investment in farm resilience.
The Commission also plans to encourage wider use of organic and bio-based fertilisers, including products derived from algae biomass, sewage sludge and other nutrient recovery systems. It said further measures would be introduced to simplify circular economy practices and reduce barriers to sustainable fertiliser products within the EU single market.
‘Immediate measures’
“The European Commission recognises the difficulties the agricultural sector is facing as a result of rising costs and volatility in international markets,” commented Raffaele Fitto, executive vice-president for cohesion and reforms.
“With this Action Plan, we are putting forward immediate measures to support farmers, including through the mobilisation of available cohesion policy resources, while also setting out medium- and long-term actions to strengthen the sector’s resilience, reduce external dependencies, and make European agriculture more robust and competitive.” Read more here.
