Farmers’ protests

In his speech, Deputy Minister Nowak addressed issues related to the European Green Deal.

“Farmers need support from the European Union. Stringent standards and environmental challenges will not bring an agreement any closer,” said the Undersecretary of State.

The Deputy Minister emphasised that the European Union should consider making the Green Deal requirements voluntary and offer sufficient financial compensation to farmers who implement them.

He stated that EU institutions should involve the protesters in the decision-making process regarding the future of European agriculture at all stages, rather than make the decisions behind closed doors.

Cost-effectiveness of agricultural production

Undersecretary of State Adam Nowak strongly believes that in this difficult situation, it is crucial to enhance and stabilise farmers’ incomes.

“If agricultural production is not profitable, farmers will not be able to use modern technologies, such as agriculture 4.0 solutions. This will gradually lead to European agriculture becoming less and less competitive,” said Deputy Minister Nowak.

Direct payments

As Deputy Minister Adam Nowak pointed out, “Direct payment rates have not been indexed for several years, which should prompt a discussion. It is a major support instrument amid rising production costs,” stressed Undersecretary of State Adam Nowak.

Remaining issues

The Deputy Head of the Polish Ministry of Agriculture also touched on the need for aligning the standards of agri-food products, regardless of their country of origin, and normalising trade relations with third countries.

About the event

Today’s conference in Bulgaria is part of a series of conferences entitled “European Farmers’ Deal EPP Vision for Agriculture in Europe”. It aims at advancing the dialogue between EU farmers and politicians.