Brussels: Today, the European Commission adopted a comprehensive Livestock Strategy aimed at fortifying Europe's livestock sector against economic, environmental, and market challenges. This pioneering strategy outlines a long-term vision to bolster the sustainability and resilience of livestock farming, which is crucial for safeguarding Europe's food security and supporting its rural communities.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Livestock Strategy identifies five key priorities: enhancing resilience, boosting competitiveness, promoting sustainability, ensuring regional adaptability, and achieving excellence in production. With these priorities, the Commission is set to introduce measures such as improved risk management tools, initiatives to enhance global competitiveness, and tailored approaches to meet sustainability challenges unique to different regions. The strategy also aims to support fair income for farmers and promote new market opportunities through enhanced agri-food diplomacy.
Furthermore, the strategy places a strong emphasis on animal welfare, proposing revisions for specific livestock such as laying hens, broilers, and pigs. It also highlights the importance of reducing import dependencies and investing in climate resilience. The Commission plans to support Member States in managing animal diseases and will develop harmonised methods for calculating livestock emissions and improving nutrient management practices.
The strategy is complemented by a new Protein Action Plan, which aims to increase the EU's supply of domestically grown proteins. Currently, only 25% of protein from oilseeds and crops is sourced within the EU, and the plan seeks to raise this to 35% by 2035. This initiative is expected to enhance European food security and reduce strategic dependencies.
The livestock sector plays a significant role in the EU's economy, accounting for about 40% of agricultural value and employing approximately 7 million people. Despite its importance, the sector faces numerous challenges, including low profitability, rising costs, and societal pressures for higher animal welfare standards. The Livestock Strategy is part of the Commission's broader Vision for Agriculture and Food, which aims to strengthen the competitiveness and sustainability of the livestock sector through targeted policy pathways developed in consultation with various stakeholders.
Overall, the adoption of the Livestock Strategy marks a significant step towards securing the future of Europe's livestock sector, ensuring it remains a pillar of the EU's agricultural landscape while meeting environmental and societal expectations.