The European Commission recently unveiled measures intended to support farmers across Europe in response to sharply increased fertilizer prices. According to the Brussels authorities, a total of 540 million euros is set to be mobilized to provide financial relief and strengthen food security.
The Commission proposes augmenting the Agricultural Reserve by 300 million euros. Member states will have the option to increase these national contributions by up to 200 percent of their existing funds.
Furthermore, the Commission is suggesting targeted adjustments to the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) to allow farmers faster and more flexible access to fertilizer supplies. These changes include a new liquidity regulation designed for crisis support, as well as options for operators to receive earlier direct payments. Member states also have the possibility to adjust their budgets for direct payments for the 2027 calendar year to counter the impact of high fertilizer costs.
EU Agriculture Commissioner Christophe Hansen stated, “Today we are fulfilling our commitment to support farmers confronted with rising fertilizer costs.” He confirmed, “We have proposed a financial support package of 540 million euros from the EU, which Member States can boost using national funds to mobilize up to 1.5 billion euros in support for farmers on the ground.” Hansen emphasized that Europe stands fully by its farmers and is taking “decisive measures” to secure the foundations of food production.
The proposed changes to CAP legislation are currently being presented to the European Parliament and the Council for their approval. The final adoption of the Agricultural Reserve is scheduled for the end of July 2026, pending agreement from the Member States.
