Food sector to become competitive in decisive year, commissioner says
She said proposals to reform the €1.5 billion Common Market Organisation for fruit and vegetables are due to be adopted on January 24 and legislative proposals on wine will follow before the summer.
“These are the last two sectors which are not yet part of the reform process we began in 2003. We need to move away from old-fashioned methods of support and allow producers to become more competitive,” she said.
Ms Fischer Boel said fruit and vegetables are vital to promoting healthier eating. EU reforms aim to strengthen growers, modernise the system of support and encourage consumption, especially amongst the young.
“We will also take measures to boost organic production, which will be assisted further by the anticipated final agreement on a new Organic Regulation during the German presidency,” she said.
Ms Fischer Boel said the European Commission last week unveiled an ambitious strategy to cut greenhouse gas emissions and reduce Europe’s dependence on imported fossil fuels.
“Agriculture can play a key role in this strategy. I am delighted with the decision to propose a compulsory target of 10% biofuels in the fuel mix by 2020.
“This is an excellent opportunity for European agriculture to play a part in one of the greatest challenges facing the European Union today.
“Our CAP reforms have already given biofuel production a major push — now I want to build on this further,” she said.
Ms Fischer Boel said simplifying the Common Agricultural Policy is also high on her priorities for 2007.
She said the Commission has already proposed a number of important technical changes, which will make life easier for farmers and administrators.
The next step is to look at the system of cross compliance — the set of environmental, animal welfare and food quality standards farmers have to respect to receive their direct subsidies.
“Cross compliance is crucial,” she said.
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
