Temporary support and payment of advances regarding the increased fertiliser prices due to the Middle East crisis

The European Parliament adopted by 576 votes to 62, with 15 abstentions, a legislative resolution on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2021/2115 as regards a specific type of intervention to provide exceptional temporary support under the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and the possibility to adapt direct payments allocations for calendar year 2027 and Regulation (EU) 2021/2116 as regards more flexible rules on payments of advances in response to the increased fertiliser prices due to the Middle East crisis.

The European Parliament adopted its position at first reading, taking over the Commission's proposal.

To quickly address vulnerabilities of the Union food system resulting from the recent crisis in the Middle East and to assist farmers facing liquidity problems, farmers will be able to receive liquidity support worth up to 80% of the additional fertiliser costs they incur.

Member States will set a maximum amount of support per beneficiary or a maximum number of hectares in respect of which support can be received per beneficiary.

The support will be paid to the farmer by 30 June 2027.

EU countries will also have the possibility to increase advances on direct payments from 70% to 75% and pay them to affected farmers directly after they apply for them (and not only after 16 October as defined by the current rules). Member States may provide additional national financing of up to 200 % of the EAFRD financing allocated in the CAP Strategic Plan.

Member States will also have greater flexibility to adjust their direct payments budgets for the 2027 calendar year.