Concerns about EU Agricultural Policy - Industry Looks to Berlin - Thuringia’s farmers face crisis as EU trade deals and costs threaten livelihoods
Farmers in Thuringia are grappling with plummeting prices and escalating costs, putting immense pressure on regional agriculture. Meanwhile, political leaders have expressed apprehension about impending EU policies and trade deals that could exacerbate the situation. The region is also gearing up to showcase its pivotal role as a key food producer at this year’s Green Week event.
Thuringia’s government has allocated approximately €290 million to assist farmers in weathering financial storms. The funding comes as many agricultural businesses face dwindling profits and soaring expenses. Officials hope the support will shore up the sector while the region promotes itself as a trailblazer in modern farming at Green Week.
Parliamentary group leader Frank Augsten of the BSW party has cautioned that the EU’s agricultural financing plans and the proposed EU-Mercosur trade deal could create additional hurdles. His remarks follow broader anxiety about the future of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) post-2028. Agriculture Minister Colette Boos-John has also voiced apprehensions about how these changes might impact local producers. At the EU level, President Ursula von der Leyen holds the reins in shaping decisions on agricultural policy and trade agreements. Recent joint declarations and bilateral meetings underscore her role in sealing the EU-Mercosur deal, which critics contend could inundate the market with cheaper imports and undermine Thuringia’s farmers.
The €290 million funding aims to provide immediate relief for Thuringia’s farmers. However, long-term challenges persist as EU policies and trade negotiations unfold. Local leaders continue to advocate for measures that safeguard the region’s agricultural sector from further turbulence.
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