Agricultural leaders from across the European Union convened in Budapest for a crucial conference hosted by the Hungarian Chamber of Agriculture (CAP) on the 5th September. The event drew nearly 100 participants from over 50 organisations spanning 26 countries, with Malta’s delegation including Daniel Schembri, CEO of Koperattivi Malta, and Joseph Cassar, Council Member of Koperattivi Malta, representing the Farmers Central Cooperative Society.

The conference sought to tackle urgent challenges within the agricultural sector, underscoring the critical need for farmer involvement in EU policy-making. Participants agreed that as the European Commission formulates new agricultural proposals, it is imperative that farmers are actively consulted, and their feedback integrated into policy development. Key discussions further highlighted the need for equitable income distribution for farmers and an increase in the EU agricultural budget. The conference underscored that current financial provisions must be adjusted to account for inflation, food security challenges, and the ambitious objectives of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). Participants noted that the costs associated with high production standards and sustainability measures must be adequately supported through enhanced budgetary allocations. A significant point of consensus was the call for a level playing field between EU farmers and producers from third countries. The enforcement of EU standards on imports was deemed essential to ensure that external products adhere to the same rigorous requirements imposed on domestic producers.

Reflecting on the conference, Koperattivi Malta CEO Daniel Schembri remarked, “This issue extends beyond politics and strikes at the heart of food security. It is crucial for our policymakers to act decisively, engage with farmers throughout the policy-making process, and ensure that EU agricultural policies reflect the practical realities faced by the sector. Cooperatives are also key in supporting this effort, and we must work collectively to address these urgent challenges.”

The conference concluded with a shared commitment to continuing this vital dialogue in future EU Presidencies. Participants expressed optimism about the constructive nature of the discussions and the potential for meaningful progress in aligning agricultural policies with the needs of farmers across Europe.