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Slovenia supported proposals to strengthen the position of farmers in the food supply chain

by AI | 28.Jan 2025 | Europe in brief AI

Slovenia supported both proposals to strengthen the position of farmers in the food supply chain at the meeting of EU agriculture ministers, as well as the initiative to limit unfair trading practices.

Slovenia advocates for strengthening the position of farmers in the food supply chain. Photo: Katja Kodba /STA

Brussels – Slovenia welcomed both proposals of the European Commission to improve the position of farmers in the food supply chain at the EU agriculture ministers’ meeting, emphasizing the importance of considering the specificities of member states. Additionally, it supported the initiative for less bureaucracy for organic farmers and the initiative to limit unfair trade practices.

The European Commission presented two legislative proposals to the ministers at the meeting in Brussels, published just over a month ago, which stem from the package of measures presented in the spring for dealing with crisis situations in agriculture. Their aim is to strengthen the position of farmers and restore trust among actors in the agri-food supply chain.

As announced on Tuesday by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Food, Slovenia welcomed the proposed changes to the common organization of markets, emphasizing the importance of considering the specificities of member states. According to the ministry, it is essential for Slovenia to enable the simultaneous recognition of cooperatives as producer organizations for various sectors.

Slovenia also welcomed the establishment of better cooperation among supervisory authorities in eradicating unfair business practices in the agri-food chain. The ministry assesses that procedural rules for cross-border cooperation, including the mutual assistance mechanism, will contribute to the protection of farmers and small and medium-sized suppliers from abuses.

The Council of Agriculture Ministers also discussed the need for a review of the fitness check process regarding the implementation of strategic plans, which was emphasized in the joint letter of 27 member states, including Slovenia, and simplifications of the green architecture. Slovenia supported further legislative changes to simplify procedures that will enable more efficient use of Common Agricultural Policy funds and expressed support for improving the acceptability of the green architecture for farmers, which will help in better achieving the goals of the green deal. (January 28)