EU farmer mood worsens as Russia trade falters and geopolitics simmer

Deteriorating trade relations with Russia and political tension in eastern Europe are common fears among farmers in European Union member states.

A survey conducted in 10 countries by Copa-Cogeca, the umbrella body for European farmers and co-ops, shows that the economic situation has improved slightly in the past year. This was mainly as a result of a slight recovery in EU farm prices, lower input costs and a gradual emergence from the economic recession.

But Copa-Cogeca’s Secretary General, Pekka Pesonen warned this improved situation masks big differences between member states and between sectors, and stems from a particularly critical situation.