Agri-food supply chain “societally-critical”, securing gas supply vital to maintain EU food supplies

Copa-Cogeca, Primary Food Processors, and FoodDrinkEurope welcome the recognition that the agri-food supply chain is considered to be a “societally-critical” sector in the EU’s “Save Gas for a Safe Winter” initiative, which was endorsed by EU Member States on 26 July 2022.

28.07.2022 #JOINT PRESS RELEASE

CAP conditionality derogations – A timely decision providing farmers with necessary clarity but not enough tools nor incentives

Copa and Cogeca welcome the Commission’s proposal providing some derogations to the conditionality rules for the CAP but must put in question their effective contribution to alleviating the shortages and disruptions caused by the war in Ukraine and the complex implementation.

27.07.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

Ukraine - Russia agreement on grain exports raises hopes for the prevention of world food security crisis

Copa and Cogeca welcome the agreement reached today between Ukraine, the Russian Federation and Turkey under UN auspices for reopening Ukrainian Black Sea ports for grain exports, which could ease further rise of global food insecurity and market disruptions. It is an encouraging signal for fellow Ukrainian farmers and agri-cooperative colleagues after months of incredible hardships and uncertainty.

22.07.2022 #STATEMENT

Temporary suspension of tariffs on fertilisers – Copa and Cogeca welcome a Commission decision that goes in the right direction, but which remains incomplete for the time being

Faced with a tense situation on the fertiliser markets, the European Commission (DG Trade) has taken a long-awaited decision by the farming community: the suspension of conventional tariffs for certain fertilisers (urea and anhydrous ammonia). Copa and Cogeca welcome a step in the right direction and call on the Commission to follow its logic to the end by also suspending conventional duties on key fertilisers used directly by farmers (UAN, DAP, MAP and NPK) and anti-dumping measures on UAN imports from Trinidad and Tobago and USA. Only such an ambitious measure could make those markets more dynamic and bring down the prices paid by farmers in the long term.

20.07.2022 #STATEMENT

Secure gas supply critical to maintain EU food supplies

Brussels, 20 July 2022 – The EU agri-food sector has backed the European Commission’s “save gas for a safe winter” proposal, pSublished today, which singles out the critical importance of Europe’s food supply chain and the need for a secure supply of gas to maintain food security.

20.07.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

EU ORGANIC AWARDS – Celebrating the extraordinary work of women in organic farming

Today the European Commission announced the list of finalists for the first ever annual EU organic awards. The awards were launched as part of a commitment made in the Action Plan for the Development of Organic Production with the objective of recognising excellence all along the organic food chain, from farmer to restaurant. The aim of the awards is to reward the best and most innovative organic actors who contribute to reducing the agriculture’s impact on the climate and environment.

20.07.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

Parliament committee keeps role for biofuels in fighting climate change, boosting food security and ensuring European energy independence

The European Parliament has taken a positive step on EU renewable energy policy as ITRE Committee members voted decisively in favour of increasing the ambition for GHG emissions reduction in transport while leaving Member States free to use crop-based biofuels in their transport energy mix.

12.07.2022 #JOINT STATEMENT

The EU Forest Strategy 2030 must support the multi-functional role of forests

Copa and Cogeca welcome the EU Forest Strategy 2030’s report adopted today by the Agriculture and the Rural Development Committee, as led by Ulrike Müller, and its acknowledgment of the importance of having an integrated and balanced way regarding the three dimensions of sustainability across environmental, social, and economic aspects.

12.07.2022 #STATEMENT

Copa and Cogeca’s crop forecasts: European cereal production seen as down with a more promising oilseed production, strongly depending on weather conditions

Experts from the Copa and Cogeca working groups on cereal and oilseed gathered in Brussels this week, with an estimated total cereal production of 277 million tonnes in the EU-27 for the 2022 harvest. This would be 4.4% lower than the previous marketing year (290 million tonnes), and 3.8% below the multiannual average of 288 million tonnes.

01.07.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

EU-New Zealand trade deal signed: EU dairy, sheep and beef are the sacrificed lambs

Today the EU and New Zealand reached a political agreement on a comprehensive trade agreement with New Zealand. The final deal including tariff rate quotas (TRQs) has effectively been endorsed and includes a substantial access to the EU’s market on dairy, sheep meat and beef. While Copa and Cogeca recognise the high consumer protection standards in New Zealand and the effort made by the Commission to protect GIs and EU production standards in the deal found, painful compromises have been made on sensitive sectors.

30.06.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

Breakthrough agreements in the Council carry significant impact for EU’s agriculture model

Following marathon discussions in the Energy and Environment Council over the last three days in Luxembourg, Ministers of EU’s 27 Member States reached agreements on a series of important files for the agriculture sector.

29.06.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

SUR: Mandatory reduction targets but with limited answers on the ways to achieve them on-field

The revision of the directive on the sustainable use of plant protection products (SU - 2009/128/EC) was eagerly awaited by the EU farming community. With SUR being a landmark policy item of the Farm to Fork communication, Copa and Cogeca expected a balanced approach presenting not only already known targets but also precise solutions and alternatives to achieve these objectives. The proposal published today that became a regulation from a directive, still does not answer these interrogations in an ever-pressing international context faced with a global food security challenge.

22.06.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

Nature Restoration – EU farming community calls for realistic ambitions and long-term supports instead of arbitrary deadlines

Following today’s release of the long-awaited Nature Restoration Law proposal by the European Commission, Copa and Cogeca warn that if left unchecked, this law has the ability to grow in an uncontrolled manner running away from its true purpose, the rejuvenation of nature. It is essential that Member States and stakeholders are part of the creation of any future targets, especially those of a legally binding nature which will have direct impacts on Member State governments, and especially farmers, forest-owners, and cooperatives on the ground. Restoration will primarily take place on private land, and can only be achieved with the full-backing of those who own, and whose livelihoods depend on the land.

22.06.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

Cogeca Business Forum – Cooperation as key driver for sector resilience

Today in Brussels, Cogeca organised its traditional biannual Business Forum under the topic ‘Securing food and competitiveness in times of crisis. What is the role of agri-food cooperatives?’. The forum, which gathered agri-cooperative representatives from across the EU focused the debate and discussions on the impact of the ongoing crisis in Ukraine on the agri-food sector and the role of agri-food cooperatives in responding, as well as possible solutions to the main issues affecting the sector.

15.06.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

Fit for 55, making the green transition a success will be possible if the contributions of the farming community are recognised and reflected in a balanced way between the economic, environmental, and social dimensions

Following the heated discussions and votes on the Fit for 55 proposals in the European Parliament in Strasbourg over the past days, Copa and Cogeca take note of the outcome of the votes, in particular on LULUCF, CBAM and CO2 emission standards for cars and vans.

09.06.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

World Food Safety Day: EU Agri-food chain’s commitment to safer food for better health

World Food Safety Day is an important way to raise awareness on the need to prevent, detect and manage foodborne risks. To mark the fourth World Safety Day today, CELCAA, Copa-Cogeca, EuroCommerce, FEFAC and FoodDrinkEurope want to reiterate their strong commitment to delivering safe food to consumers in Europe and all around the globe. Food safety is essential to human health and well-being, a crucial component to food security, a prerequisite for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and a truly cross-cutting area.

07.06.2022 #JOINT PRESS RELEASE

LULUCF and Effort Sharing Regulation votes unfavourable to the dynamics of the agriculture and forestry sectors

Today, the European Parliament’s Committee on Environment voted on the Committee’s Report on the LULUCF Regulation and the Effort Sharing Regulation. Both proposals are part of a series adopted by the European Commission on 14 July 2021, which intends to achieve climate neutrality in the EU by 2050. While in principle these proposals must be in line with the Paris Agreement, their environmental ambitions do not necessarily amount to a balanced exercise between the three pillars of sustainability, as economic and social aspects seem to enjoy a secondary degree of importance.

17.05.2022 #STATEMENT

If agriculture becomes a key power lever in global geopolitics, the European Union remains our best collective asset!

On this Europe Day, the farming community reiterates its commitment to the common policies of the EU. Since its creation, the EU has made it possible to build a prosperous and peaceful Europe by giving its farmers and cooperatives a robust and structured framework. This year also marks the 60 years of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP); we should also celebrate this key policy today.

09.05.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

The Committee on International Trade approves crucial document for ensuring fair competition for European rice and sugar farmers

With a clear majority of positive votes, the revision of the Regulation on Generalised Scheme of tariff preferences (GSP) was adopted in the Committee on International Trade (COM INTA) today.

03.05.2022 #STATEMENT

The European Parliament takes a clear stand on the future of organic farming

The report on the Organic Action Plan, which focused on several important topics for European farmers and agri-cooperatives, was approved in the Plenary today. The report was adopted following the unanimous approval by the Committee of Agriculture on the 6th of April.

03.05.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

EU and world food security - Neither dramatising nor minimising

Copa and Cogeca held their presidency meetings this week in Brussels. Speakers from the Commission, the FAO and UNAF analysed the complexity of the Ukrainian, European and global agri-food situation. These exchanges were at odds with the stances taken by Executive Vice President, Frans Timmermans, at the same time in the Environment Committee.

30.04.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

Agri-cooperatives DNA – resilience, innovation and value creation

While the COVID crisis has certainly represented an unprecedented challenge for us, I am happy to be able to say that it has also reinforced my belief in the potential and strength of our sector. Agri-cooperatives have in this time of crisis once again proved their ability to innovate, to face challenges and to further strengthen their resilience while delivering to consumers.

28.04.2022 #OPINION PIECE

Cultivating innovation and creating value - European Agri-cooperatives’ business as usual

Almost 150 representatives of European agri-cooperatives gathered today in Brussels for the award ceremony of the six winners of the 5th European Award for Cooperative Innovation, organised by Cogeca and sponsored by the Spanish cooperative bank Cajamar Caja Rural.

27.04.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

Food supply chain - Working together to ensure reliable food supplies for Europe

Our four organisations – representing Europe’s farmers, food processors, retailers, wholesalers and traders – express our joint solidarity with the people of Ukraine, including the millions that have fled their country to seek safety elsewhere.

20.04.2022 #JOINT STATEMENT

On the Council’s Conclusions concerning carbon farming

Following yesterday’s Agri-Fish Council meeting, Copa and Cogeca welcome the adopted Council’s conclusions on the European Commission’s communication on sustainable carbon cycles in the agriculture and forestry sectors.

08.04.2022 #STATEMENT

The Commission's first response to the crisis on the fertiliser market lacks concrete short-term actions

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has disrupted many markets and value chains globally. Besides the energy and agricultural commodities that have been widely analysed and commented on, there is another market where the war is highly impacting European agriculture, namely fertilisers.

07.04.2022 #OPINION PIECE

Revision of the Industrial Emissions Directive – Livestock family farming will pay a high price

The European Commission published yesterday a revision of its 2010 Directive on Industrial Emissions. While only the largest EU livestock installations were considered under its scope over the past decade, the revision proposed to multiple by almost 10 the number of cattle, pig and poultry farms targeting family farms and categorising them as "agro-industrial installations”. As it stands, this revision would force thousands of family livestock farms to comply with a costly emission protocol designed primarily for large companies. Only a few days after the institutions' communications on the EU's need for food strategic autonomy, this accounting, ideological and disconnected from the farm reality approach is felt as a blow across Europe by livestock farmers.

06.04.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

On the Platform on Sustainable Finance’s report with recommendations on technical screening criteria for the four remaining environmental objectives of the EU taxonomy

Copa and Cogeca represent 22 million farmers and their family members as well as 22,000 cooperatives that provide to 446 million EU citizens with safe, nutritious, high-quality, sustainable, and affordable food every day.

05.04.2022 #STATEMENT

Important signal to the organic farming world from the European Parliament’s AGRI Committee

The European Parliament’s Agriculture Committee adopted today by unanimity its report on the Organic Action Plan, proposed by the European Commission last year. Copa and Cogeca welcome the good work done by the Committee, led by MEP Simone Schmiedtbauer. The report acknowledges several important aspects for European farmers and agri-cooperatives.

31.03.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

The Commission’s proposal on the revision of the GIs system leaves too many questions unanswered and causes concern about the proposed transfer of competences to EUIPO

The European Commission released its proposal today for the revision of EU’s Geographical Indications (GIs) system planned in the framework of the Farm to Fork Strategy. GIs are a useful and unique EU creation that allows the valorization of products, EU’s culinary heritage and the work of their producers. They also play an important role for the regional development and especially of the rural communities to which they are attached, aiding also to preserve the culture and the various specific agricultural techniques and plant and animal varieties of those regions. GIs are a true European success story.

31.03.2022 #STATEMENT

From the EU Biofuels Chain on the European Commission Communication on food security

The European Commission has sent a welcome signal about the urgent need to strengthen EU food security – one that recognises the strategic importance of European agriculture, calls for an increase in production by using fallow land, and highlights the urgent need to reduce and diversify imports of resources such as energy, fertiliser and animal feed.

30.03.2022 #JOINT STATEMENT

The European Parliament recognises the urgent need for EU action on food security

Copa and Cogeca welcome the Joint Motion for Resolution adopted today by a large majority in the European Parliament on the need for an urgent EU action plan to ensure food security inside and outside the EU in light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This motion follows and aligns with the Versailles Declaration by the Council of Ministers and the Communication issued yesterday by the European Commission.

24.03.2022 #STATEMENT

The European Commission recognises the strategic role of European agriculture production in global food security

Following the Versailles Declaration, the European Commission presented today a first set of measures on food security and on the resilience of our food systems. Copa and Cogeca share the Commission's analysis on the situation and the stated objective of increasing the sustainability of EU agriculture while ensuring its production capacity. The European farming community welcomes the emergency and temporary responses outlined in this communication starting with the support granted to the Ukrainian population and farmers.

23.03.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

A joint call for an EU strategy on plant protein

The Stakeholders – COPA & COGECA, EUROSEEDS and FEFAC – in view of the recent European Council declaration in Versailles in which the Heads of State or Government listed the intention to improve food security by reducing EU dependencies on key imported agricultural products and inputs, in particular by increasing the EU production of plant-based proteins and the upcoming Commission´s communication on affordable food and fair farm income, call on the European Commission to take a leading role in promoting the domestic cultivation and use of European plant sourced protein.

21.03.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

EU Pay Transparency proposal: Sectoral employers’ organisations urge the plenary to endorse a more balanced approach on Pay Transparency

The European employers’ organisations, Ceemet (MET industries), ECEG (chemical, pharmaceutical, plastic and rubber industries), Geopa (agriculture), Hotrec (hospitality), EFCI (cleaning and facility services) and EuroCommerce (retail & wholesale) regret the outcome of the vote at the EMPL and FEMM committee’s on the Commission’s proposal on pay transparency.

18.03.2022 #JOINT PRESS RELEASE

REPowerEU Communication: The European Union recognises the key role played by European livestock farming in our energy independence

With the escalation of tensions following the war in Ukraine, the EU needs to break its energy dependency on Russian gas. These days, the energy markets are soaring, bringing the gas prices to record values while its availability remains in the hands of Russian authorities. Among the EU fossil fuel dependency from Russia, gas is the worst, with imports counting over 45% of our total consumption. A rapid transition to clean gas – in every meaning of the word - has never been so urgent, both for our sovereignty and the climate.

09.03.2022 #STATEMENT

The rise of large carnivore conflicts in Europe

2022 marks the 30th Anniversary of Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora - the Habitats Directive - which has protected a wide variety of habitats and species in the European Union for the past 30 years. Nevertheless, due to ongoing successful conservation measures, certain populations of large carnivore species are causing increased conflicts, which is exacerbated by challenging legal frameworks. In many cases, legal interpretation of “strict protection” prevents the implementation of active management of the species, which can help to reduce serious conflicts with livestock, people, and biodiversity-rich landscapes. These conflicts are adding to the existing pressures on rural livelihood interests.

17.03.2022 #JOINT STATEMENT

Ukrainian National Agrarian Forum (UNAF) joins COPA and COGECA

During an online meeting organised today, Copa and Cogeca Presidents and Vice Presidents warmly welcomed the Ukrainian National Agrarian Forum (UNAF), represented by its Director, Ms Mariia Dudikh, as a new partner organisation.

09.03.2022 #STATEMENT

First reaction of the European farming community to the REPowerEU communication

Europe imports 40% of its gas, 27% of its oil and 46% of its coal consumption from Russia. Faced with the war in Ukraine, yesterday the EU presented its communication called REPowerEU to cut its dependence on Russian fossil fuels well before 2030.

09.03.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

Social Partners launch the Online interactive Risk Assessment (OiRA) tool in the agriculture sector

Today the representative European Social Partners in Agriculture, the European Federation of Food, Agriculture and Tourism Trade Unions (EFFAT) and the Employers’ Group of Professional Agricultural Organisations in the European Union (GEOPA), officially launch the Online interactive Risk Assessment (OiRA) tool in the agriculture sector.

09.03.2022 #JOINT PRESS RELEASE

EU PAY TRANSPARENCY PROPOSAL: SECTORAL EMPLOYERS’ ORGANISATIONS SUGGEST A MORE BALANCED APPROACH

The European employers’ organisations, Ceemet (MET industries), Geopa (agriculture), Hotrec (hospitality), ECEG (chemical, pharmaceutical, plastic and rubber industries), EFCI (cleaning and facility services) and EuroCommerce (retail and wholesale) strongly support the principle of equal pay for equal work or work of equal value, as stated in the European Treaties. Employers consider pay discrimination unacceptable and they are fully committed to promoting equal opportunities and equal remuneration. Despite this, the sectors fear that the Commission’s proposal on pay transparency does not address the root causes of the gender pay gap. Instead, it challenges social partners’ autonomy, businesses’competitiveness, and the role of the Member States.

09.03.2022 #JOINT PRESS RELEASE

European Forest Owners’ and Managers’ considerations on the EC Proposal for a Deforestation and Forest Degradation Regulation

The proposal for a Deforestation and Forest Degradation Regulation, published by the European Commission on 17 November 2021, risks missing its aim due to inadequate definitions and unfeasible provisions for monitoring and implementation.

07.03.2022 #JOINT PRESS RELEASE

Europe must equip its agriculture with a food shield to face the consequences of two major crises: the war in Ukraine and climate change

Copa and Cogeca held a coordination meeting with their members on the humanitarian situation arising from the war in Ukraine and on the first responses provided by the extraordinary meeting of the AGRIFISH Council organised by the French Presidency.

06.03.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

On the Russian invasion of Ukraine and its implications for EU agriculture

The entire European farming community is considering the development of the conflict in Ukraine with deep sorrow. At last week’s Copa and Cogeca Praesidia meetings all members expressed their solidarity with the Ukrainian people, with special thoughts going to our fellow farmers and agri-cooperative colleagues in these difficult times. Our solidarity doesn’t stop at words, Copa and Cogeca will put in place concrete actions in the coming days and weeks following the evolution of the conflict.

28.02.2022 #STATEMENT

The Pact for Skills – Launch of a Skills Partnership for the Agri-food Ecosystem

The agri-food chain is one of the largest segments of the European economy, employing over 20 million people from 10 million farms, 22,000 agri-food co-operatives, and 289,000 food and drink processing sites. The agri-food system is by far the biggest employment sector in Europe, and it has a significant impact on both rural and urban communities, and is comprised of more than 99% small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

18.02.2022 #JOINT PRESS RELEASE

The European Parliament votes in support of foie gras production

Euro Foie Gras and Copa-Cogeca welcome the positive vote of the European Parliament on Jérémy Decerle’s ‘Implementation report on on-farm animal welfare.’ Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) acknowledged that, “Foie gras production is based on farming procedures that respect animal welfare criteria” and rejected the call to ban assisted feeding of ducks and geese.

16.02.2022 #JOINT PRESS RELEASE

The European Parliament sends a signal of confidence to European livestock farmers when it comes to the enforcement of on-farm animal welfare 

Copa and Cogeca welcome yesterday’s adoption in the EU Parliament’s plenary of the AGRI Implementation Report on on-farm welfare. The limited number of amendments made to the text approved in COM AGRI in October 2021 shows the good balance found by the rapporteur MEP Jérémy Decerle. The clear rejection of a counterproposal yesterday and the 72% majority achieved today, shows that the European Parliament has confidence in the ability of its farmers to put in place the most advanced animal welfare legislation worldwide. Despite the regular livestock-bashing at EU level, we are pleased to see that the European Parliament recognises this fact and is encouraging livestock farmers to pursue their efforts. 

16.02.2022 #STATEMENT

SOS call to preserve coastal fishing communities in the Mediterranean Sea

Yesterday, during the meeting of the Social Dialogue Committee for Sea Fisheries, the Social Partners–ETF,EuropêcheandCopa-Cogeca–adoptedajointresolutiononthesituationof fisheriesintheMediterranean.Thesectorrepresentativesseizedtheopportunitytocallupon the European Commission to propose balanced measures that secure a future for fishermen, coastal communities and fishing resources alike in the Mediterranean Sea.

03.02.2022 #JOINT PRESS RELEASE

We support an ambitious EU target of 40% renewable energy, but this cannot be achieved without European agricultural and forest biomass!

After the July announcements by the Commission, the proposals of the ‘Fit for 55’ package are now making their way through the European institutions, with debates expected in the European Parliament, notably on the revision of the Renewable Energy directive. To achieve its objective, the Commission has proposed to raise the renewable energy target from 32% to 40% by 2030. This is a major challenge, but it is not unattainable. For this to happen, all technologies must be mobilised and discussed on equal footing, while respecting the principle of technological neutrality.

01.02.2022 #OPINION PIECE

Another week of debate on the Farm to Fork studies in Brussels ends with…the need for more studies!

This week, again, the European agricultural news has partly revolved around the question of the studies on the impact of the Farm to Fork strategy, whether it be the hearing with Julien Denormandie in the European Parliament or the official academic release of the two studies by the University of Wageningen, one of which, dedicated to the impacts on the livestock sector, was commissioned by the members of the European Livestock Voice.

27.01.2022 #OPINION PIECE

Farm to Fork Strategy: how to reach the targets?

With the Farm to Fork deadline looming in 8 years’ time and no comprehensive impact assessment in sight, we must build solution-oriented policies, based on the available data we have at hand, with innovation as their cornerstone. European agri-food production is among the most resource-efficient and sustainable in the world. The European farming sector believes that, with innovation and further support at the forefront of EU agricultural policy, farmers will and can continue to produce in an even more sustainable manner. We acknowledge the expectations of society and policymakers food production systems and believe that for innovation is key in the sustainable transition outlined by the Farm to Fork Strategy. But innovation cannot happen without the necessary legislative and financial support. The agri-food sector calls on European policymakers to enable innovation as a driver of its Farm to Fork targets.

27.01.2022 #JOINT STATEMENT

Fit for 55 - A one size fits all solution won't work in rural areas and especially for farming transport

Copa-Cogeca participated today in the 19th edition of the ‘Fuels of the Future’ conference on the issue of the ‘Fit for 55’ package and alternative fuels. This was an opportunity to recall the importance of the agricultural sector in the production of alternative fuels but also highlight the need for the ‘Fit for 55’s package to consider the specific needs of agricultural transport and more broadly mobility in rural areas.

24.01.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

Animal Transport – Requirements must be species-specific and based on science, not on emotions

Following today’s vote in the European Parliament on the Recommendation for revision of animal transport legislation, Copa and Cogeca wish to echo Commissioner Kyriakides in underlining that any revision of legislation must protect animals, be backed by science and become easier to implement. This is especially important for EU farmers and cooperatives due to the potential socio-economic impact.

20.01.2022 #PRESS RELEASE

FPEU – An agricultural roadmap narrowed down to the essentials

"This is a time for Europe", this is how the program of the French Presidency of the EU Council (FPEU) opens , with reference to health and climate issues. This reference also applies to agriculture well: 2021 was one of the most active years I have ever seen for agricultural initiatives in Brussels. While with the rise of the Green Deal, the CAP remains the main European policy and the historical cement of the EU, it is clear to us that the CAP is no longer the only policy that has a significant impact on agriculture.

14.01.2022 #OPINION PIECE

Large carnivores – A threat to the welfare of humans and domestic animals in rural areas

The issue of large carnivores and the damage they inflict upon farmers’ livelihoods has been the subject of political debate since the first encounter between predators and livestock farmers. However, despite all the efforts of farmers and the measures put in place by the authorities of the countries concerned in the European Union, the strict protection status of large carnivores renders the measures ineffective, and the actions taken in the context of the debate with a view to establishing harmonious coexistence between humans and wild predators insufficient.

07.01.2022 #OPINION PIECE

Why wine is more than just an alcoholic beverage

As 2021 comes to an end, it will soon be time to make a toast for the New Year. It is also time for some reflection on past events and defining the direction for 2022. I am seizing this opportunity to take a closer look at one of the most festive agricultural products: wine.

22.12.2021 #OPINION PIECE

Carbon farming – Great opportunity for farmers and forest owners if a market approach is promoted and remaining uncertainties resolved

The European Commission unveiled today the long-awaited communication on “restoring sustainable carbon cycles” (the so-called carbon farming communication), which will be followed by a legislative proposal on carbon removal certification by the end of 2022. Copa and Cogeca welcome the inclusion of carbon farming in the political agenda and future developments to capitalize agriculture’s potential to fight climate change and achieve a greener Europe.

15.12.2021 #PRESS RELEASE

Dialogue opens with EVP Timmermans on the future of European livestock farming

On 7 December sector associations from European Livestock Voice invited EVP Timmermans to visit a beef and dairy farm in the Wallonia region of Belgium. The visit organised in cooperation with local farming Union FWA, was a great opportunity for EVP Timmermans to engage in a direct and open discussion with livestock farmers on the Green Deal objectives. It was also a first step in opening an action-oriented dialogue between the Commission EVP and EU representatives of the livestock value chain on the future developments of the Farm to Fork strategy. The European livestock sector has been investing in making improvements for many years now with measurable outcomes in many areas. With best-in-class standards of animal health and welfare and among the lowest global livestock emissions, high standards on environment, the sector does not shy away from continuing to adapt to meet increasing demands. All representatives of the European livestock sector agree on the fact that more needs to be done to meet social, environmental, and animal welfare challenges. But no one should be left behind.

08.12.2021 #PRESS RELEASE

The EESC calls for coherence, certainty and clarity from the new EU Forest Strategy for 2030

European forest owners and managers welcome the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) Opinion on the EU Forest Strategy for 2030 adopted today. The Opinion draws conclusions similar to those expressed by the forest sector and Member States in the European Council. It underlines the necessity for a holistic and balanced approach to forests and their management as well as the key role of European forest owners and managers in the Strategy.

08.12.2021 #JOINT STATEMENT

Animal transport – The revision should be based on solid science, focusing on the quality of the journey and tackling the shortcomings in the application of the legislation

Following the outcome of the vote in the ANIT Committee of the European Parliament on the Draft Report and Recommendation following the ‘investigation of alleged contraventions and maladministration in the application of Union law in relation to the protection of animals during transport within and outside the Union’, Copa and Cogeca welcome the initiative to review the current legislation on animal transport. There is a need for a revision after 16 years since it was first approved and a science-based update may further guarantee a harmonised enforcement and implementation of the Regulation 1/2005 across the Member States. However, the result of the vote, especially on the Report, is quite disappointing and worrying for EU farmers, as most of its content is not sufficiently referenced nor backed by solid scientific evidence. This limits the room of manoeuver for further nuancing the Recommendation when voted in the Plenary in January 2022 and may end up damaging the sector, basing the outcome more on emotions rather than facts.

03.12.2021 #PRESS RELEASE

After another catastrophic year for beekeepers, the revision of the Honey directive should not pour honey into the sector’s ear

Once again, 2021 will be another dramatic year for the sector, with an estimated 10/15% production loss compared to 2020 – having already been a poor year for harvests. Extreme weather events have substantially reduced flowering and flying periods of bees; thus, strongly affecting productions. Meanwhile imports are still growing, and if European consumers cannot see this on the shelves, it is because the origin display remains structurally deficient. Copa and Cogeca welcome the announcement by the Commission on the revision of the Honey Directive and ask for rapid changes especially on market transparency.

29.11.2021 #PRESS RELEASE

European Parliament confirms its support for the new CAP, last uncertainties must now be solved

After more than three years of complex negotiations, Copa and Cogeca welcome the timely adoption by the European Parliament on the future CAP. With around 70% of the votes being in favour on the three regulations of the future CAP, the EU Parliament gives a final confirmation to the compromise found in the trilogues earlier in June. Still, this vote does not mark an end as there are several key steps to be taken before this new CAP becomes operational. Many uncertainties remain on the calendar, on the coherence and the implementation, both at EU and national level.

23.11.2021 #PRESS RELEASE

#DumpTheAntidumping: the European Commission (finally) opens an investigation on import duties on UAN fertilisers

For several months, Copa and Cogeca have been questioning the usefulness of the anti-dumping measures applied at European level on UAN fertilisers. With record prices this winter, and the situation becoming increasingly untenable at farm level, DG Trade has decided to open an investigation on the actual impact on those anti-dumping duties. Copa and Cogeca welcome this first step which could lead to the removal of anti-dumping taxes and ask the European Commission to act swiftly.

19.11.2021 #PRESS RELEASE

Statement- On the presentation of the EU Soil Strategy for 2030

Today the European Commission released a new strategy focused on achieving good soil health by 2030. Soil conservation is at the heart of many farmers work and initiatives, regardless of the production methods; conventional or organic. At European level, a large set of EU policies are already directly and indirectly affecting soil health and are addressing the hazards associated with this highly precious natural resource. Among others, the CAP, the Water Framework Directive, the Nitrates Directive, the Sustainable Use of Pesticides Directive, and the Nature Directives are some examples. That is why, at this stage, Copa and Cogeca expect more clarification on how the inclusion of new measures, such as the Soil Health Law, will add to the already existing set of tools, providing comprehensive and concrete means of action for farmers and agri-cooperatives. To be effective, the last thing that the EU farming community needs is a new administrative layer.

17.11.2021 #STATEMENT

Statement on the proposal for a regulation on deforestation-free products

Following today’s publication of the Proposal for a Regulation on deforestation-free products, Copa and Cogeca support the Commission’s work to fight deforestation in line with the Green Deal ambitions. It is essential for the European farming sector that the EU’s political ambition on this topic is fully in line with the ambitions on fair trade and fair competition and with the current legislation.

17.11.2021 #STATEMENT

Member States express significant concerns and request for clarifications on the new EU Forest Strategy for 2030

European forest owners and managers welcome the Council Conclusions adopted today on the EU Forest Strategy for 2030 and fully share the concerns expressed by the Members States. These Conclusions make important requests to the European Commission with regards to actions proposed in the Strategy and a clear call to truly involve and listen to Member States and those who take care of our forests on a daily basis.

15.11.2021 #JOINT PRESS RELEASE

Copa and Cogeca support the Commission's contingency plan on food security and stands ready to take an active part in the future EFSCM

The European Commission issues today an important Communication on its vision of the lessons learned from the Covid crisis in terms of food security, and its solutions in a landscape associated with higher risks. Copa and Cogeca broadly agree with the Commission's assessment and welcome the institutional response proposed by the Commission to set up a Security Crisis preparedness and response Mechanism (EFSCM) to better coordinate response to crisis in the food supply chain. Nevertheless, on European vulnerabilities and dependence identified by the Commission, the solutions offered in the Farm to Fork strategy remain unclear.

12.11.2021 #STATEMENT

EU Wine harvest 2021/22: historically low but of excellent quality

Following Copa and Cogeca’s initial harvest forecast issued in September, the updated data at the end of the harvesting period shows that the predictions were confirmed: yields have dropped considerably. On the positive side of this harvest is the excellent quality of the wines produced. The 2021/22 harvest estimates were presented during the annual Copa-Cogeca Wine harvest event titled “Taking stock of market and consumer trends – The way ahead”.

09.11.2021 #PRESS RELEASE

Support tools for agri-food cooperatives in the new CAP

In the context of the legislative procedure of the CAP Reform, the role of COGECA together with COPA had been essential to make the European Institutions aware of the importance of this Policy and of the view of 12 million European farmers and their agri-cooperatives.

09.11.2021 #OPINION PIECE

COP26 – A chance to tap into the agriculture and forestry potential

Copa and Cogeca welcome the opening of the COP26 in Glasgow, a global meeting centered around the commitments taken under the Paris Agreement at COP21. Having been an active participant in and supporter of the Agreement, Copa and Cogeca are glad to join this meeting to continue the work. Since the agriculture and forestry sectors are key for reaching the ambitious climate change goals set out in the Paris Agreement; Copa and Cogeca wish there would have been a greater focus on these essential sectors at COP26.

02.11.2021 #PRESS RELEASE

FEDE and Geopa-Copa sign a Memorandum of Understanding to close the gap between educational centers and farms

On Thursday 21st October 2021, the Federation for Education in Europe (FEDE) and the Employers’ Group of Professional Agricultural Organisations in the European Union (Geopa-Copa) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Malmö, Sweden, to strengthen the cooperation of both organizations towards the common objective of determining the skills needed in the agricultural sector.

27.10.2021 #JOINT STATEMENT

European Parliament's AGRI Committee votes for a balanced approach to on-farm animal welfare

Today the AGRI Committee of the European Parliament endorsed its position on the implementation report concerning on-farm animal welfare with a large majority. Copa and Cogeca welcome the thorough work of consultation carried out by its rapporteur Jéremy Decerle (FR, Renew) which has resulted in an ambitious, balanced text focusing on the means and solutions to support the efforts undertaken by EU farmers on animal welfare.

26.10.2021 #PRESS RELEASE

EU METHANE STRATEGY – The EP calls for a coherent framework and comprehensive impact assessment, while also asking for binding targets on methane emissions

Today, the European Parliament’s Plenary vote on the EU Methane Strategy took place. The strategy, which is of the upmost importance for the agricultural sector, calls for the reduction of methane emissions as part of the measures to combat climate change.

21.10.2021 #PRESS RELEASE