Brussels: Today, the European Commission unveiled the Fertiliser Action Plan, a strategic initiative aimed at supporting European farmers who are grappling with increasing fertiliser costs and supply shortages. This plan is designed to bolster domestic production and reduce Europe's reliance on imports, ensuring food security and enhancing Europe's strategic autonomy while maintaining high climate and environmental standards.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the recent disruptions in supply chains and volatile prices have highlighted Europe's vulnerability to external shocks in the fertiliser market. The Fertiliser Action Plan, building on the Fertilisers Communication of 2022, introduces immediate support measures to address affordability and supply security, along with long-term strategies to fortify domestic production, enhance supply resilience, and promote the transition to biobased, low-carbon, and circular fertilisers.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed the Commission's commitment to strengthening the European fertiliser industry, supporting farmers, and fostering innovation in sustainable solutions. She emphasized the connection between climate leadership and economic resilience, underscoring Europe's focus on sustainability, affordability, and industrial strength for the future.
The action plan includes targeted exceptional support measures for farmers facing high fertiliser costs, utilizing existing instruments under the EU's agricultural policy. Plans to reinforce the agricultural reserve with a substantial budget will be presented before the summer to provide liquidity relief for farmers. Additionally, a legislative package will be proposed to enable Member States to leverage support under their current Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plans.
Efforts to reinforce domestic production will involve supporting the domestic fertiliser industry to prevent deindustrialisation and ensure stable supplies. The Commission will encourage the use of organic and biobased fertilisers, alternatives to traditional mineral products, and explore options for decarbonising production. This will involve examining pathways such as algae biomass, microbial solutions, and nutrient recovery from sewage sludge.
Furthermore, the Commission plans to strengthen market transparency and preparedness by launching an EU fertilisers value chain Partnership. This initiative will bring together producers, farmers, and Member States to address challenges in the supply, production, marketing, and use of fertilisers. Enhanced market monitoring and early-warning capabilities will also be implemented to ensure regular, up-to-date data on fertilisers in the EU.
Background information highlights the crucial role of fertilisers in agricultural productivity and food security. Rising costs and geopolitical shocks have pressured farmers, risking reduced application rates and threatening crop yields. The Commission's ongoing response includes temporary duty-free tariff rate quotas and a temporary State aid framework to support affected sectors, including agriculture.