EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council debates rural development and markets

The EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council, held on 24 February 2025, discussed the implementation of the "rural proofing" principle, a mechanism aimed at ensuring that EU policies are suitable for rural areas. Ministers agreed on the need to strengthen this approach without adding bureaucracy and to integrate rural development into various EU policies beyond the CAP. The importance of strong rural communities for food security, environmental protection, and economic growth was emphasized.

The Council also reviewed the situation of agri-food markets in the EU, noting a recovery with increased stability, although high input costs, such as energy and fertilizers, remain a concern. Challenges related to extreme weather conditions and animal diseases were highlighted, as well as the geopolitical impact on trade, including relations with the U.S. and China and the potential increase in tariffs on fertilizers from Russia and Belarus. The situation in the wine sector and recommendations from the high-level group on wine were also discussed.

Additionally, the Commission presented its vision for agriculture and food in the EU, focusing on ensuring a competitive, resilient, and fair sector. Ministers stressed the importance of an adequately funded CAP, continued support for rural areas, and the need for aligned standards for imported food products.