EU vision and Spanish strategy: Planas highlights the harmony in the future of the agri-food sector

 

His statements came during the “A vision of the future for the love of agriculture” conference, an event organized by BASF and the Agricultural Publishing Group-Henar Communication, where the future of the agri-food sector was discussed in light of the “European Vision” document.

 

Within the framework of the day, Luis Planas emphasized that the “European vision” strengthens the proposals set out in the Spanish strategy, which represents a significant advance for the sector. The European document, presented by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, Christopher Hansen, sets out a roadmap for the sustainability of the agri-food sector in the EU until 2040.

 

"This strategic sector consideration should be reflected in the budgetary priorities" of the next EU financial framework, and that "the post-2027 CAP should have a solid, sufficient budget that maintains its specificity," said Minister Planas.

 

Spain, according to Planas, strongly supports the inclusion of the agricultural sector as essential, due to its crucial role in food security, environmental conservation and job creation in rural areas. The minister expressed his confidence that this strategic consideration will be reflected in the budgetary priorities of the next EU financial framework and that the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) after 2027 has a robust and sufficient budget.

 

Planas also highlighted that the “Vision” addresses the challenges identified in the National Food Strategy and provides strategies, regulations, tools for risk management and financial instruments to address them. In this regard, he highlighted the presence of the “Spanish footprint” in the European Vision, mentioning measures such as the prohibition of sales at a loss, the obligation to enter into contracts, the creation of the chain observatory, support for small and medium-sized farmers, reciprocity in the use of phytosanitary products and the promotion of innovation.

 

Innovation emerged as a central theme of the meeting, with special attention paid to digitalisation and biotechnology. Planas highlighted Spain's efforts in this area, including the creation of the digital innovation hub 'La Vega Innova' and pioneering projects in bioeconomy, biofertilisers and biopesticides.

 

The Minister also stressed the importance of the “human factor”, emphasizing the need for training and advice for the implementation of innovations in agriculture, as well as attracting young people and women to the sector to ensure its future.