Area
European Union
Commodity Group
Oilseeds, oils and meals
Commodity
All crops, livestock products
Date
18/08/2018
Policy Category
Production
Policy Instrument
Agricultural policy
Description
Announced a set of support measures for European farmers affected by the current seasons extreme drought, including allowing farmers to receive their direct and rural development payments earlier than scheduled, and to use fallow land with more flexibility. Member states are also allowed to provide compensation for damage without notifying the Commission.
Notes
On 2 August, the European Commission announced set of support measures for European farmers affected by the current seasons extreme drought. Farmers will be allowed to receive their direct and rural development payments earlier than scheduled and have been granted more flexibility in using fallow land and other areas that would normally not be available for production in order to feed their animals. Additional support can be provided under the existing state aid rules. In particular, extraordinary purchases of fodder may qualify for aid in cases of either material damage or income loss. Member states will be allowed to provide compensation for damage without notifying the Commission. The EUs Rural Development programme also provides a range of possibilities to assist farmers facing exceptional circumstances.
