Strengthening of the position of farmers in the food supply chain

This legislative proposal aims to adjust existing EU rules for direct farm payments and rural development. The goal is to address practical issues encountered during the implementation of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Strategic Plans, simplify procedures, and better support farmers facing specific challenges.

The changes primarily affect farmers, including specific groups like organic, young, small-scale, and livestock farmers, by allowing Member States to better tailor support to their needs. It also impacts national administrations responsible for managing these plans and controls.

Key changes include introducing new crisis payment options for farmers affected by natural disasters, exempting small farmers and organic farmers from certain environmental and agricultural standards (conditionality), and simplifying administrative processes for amending CAP Strategic Plans. It also adjusts rules for risk management tools and agricultural reserve usage.

The proposal seeks to reduce administrative burdens and complexities for both farmers and authorities, making the CAP more responsive to current agricultural realities and farmer needs.