EU agriculture ministers on Wednesday agreed a common position on new rules for the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) which will steer farmers towards green production.

The Council agreed a common position on three CAP provisions based on which it will negotiate final versions of relevant laws with the European Parliament.

German Agriculture Minister Julia Kloeckner, who chaired the latest meeting, said today’s agreement was a watershed for the European agricultural policy as it fulfilled the aspiration towards a greener, more just and simpler CAP.

Member states have shown their ambition for higher ecological standards in agriculture and supported the necessary flexibility for ensuring farmers’ competitiveness, she said.

The CAP has the highest amount in the EU budget and €387 billion has been set aside for it in the next seven years. Croatia is expected to receive €5 billion.

Under the agreement, farmers will receive subsidies if they produce in a way that is good for the environment and the climate. Those whose production surpasses the basic ecological and climate requirements will receive additional money, for which purpose new eco schemes will be introduced.

Twenty percent of the budget intended for direct payments to farmers will be earmarked for these eco schemes and this 20% can be used only for them.

Member states will decide on their own, depending on their needs, which eco-production they will choose, for example precise agriculture, i.e. satellite farming or site specific crop management.

All farmers will have to comply with higher green standards.

After the Council and the Parliament agree new rules, they would be in force as of 1 January 2023.

The European Parliament is expected to define its position this week, after which negotiations with the Council may begin.