The European Commission’s announcement this week on measures for the farming sector are key instruments for farmers to cope with the COVID-19 crisis, according to CEJA, the EU young farmers organisation.

Access to cheap loans and reducing on-farm inspections are some of the measures which have been introduced by the Commission.

It will allow farmers to keep on delivering safe and healthy food to EU citizens in these challenging times, the organisation said.

“Public support, in particular, is crucial for young farmers already impeded in their daily activity by the lack of access to credit and investment.

“Therefore, the proposed additional support in the form of state aid and financial tools will enable unlocking the needed cashflow to the continuity of farming businesses,” it said.

Flexibilities

It added that flexibilities granted in the implementation of the CAP as regards to advance payments and timing requirements will contribute to relieving both treasuries and spirits.

CEJA president Jannes Maes said: “Financial flexibility and the free movement of food products, services and labour are essential to ensure European farmers can keep on feeding Europe in the weeks and months to come.

“We call upon all member states to ensure fast and effective implementation of these measures.”

Europe’s young farmers will keep monitoring the situation on the markets and at key cross-border points in the next weeks, staying in contact with the Commission to look at potential further steps to be taken.

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