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30 Mars 2026
Ministers discussed the state of play one year after the launch of the EU Commission’s Vision for Agriculture and Food. They assessed progress made so far and exchanged views on the adequacy of ongoing and planned initiatives, particularly in light of evolving geopolitical developments, οngoing conflict in the Middle East, market volatility and climate-related challenges. Of the actions implemented until now, many welcomed the focus on generational renewal and the progress made on simplification, while highlighting the need for further actions in this regard. They also discussed additional actions needed to strengthen resilience, competitiveness and food security across the EU agrifood sector.
The Vision, presented in February 2025, sets out a long-term framework for an attractive, competitive, resilient and sustainable agrifood sector by 2040. In its first year, the Commission has launched and implemented a range of initiatives across the Vision’s four interconnected priorities, including measures to improve farmers’ position in the food supply chain (notably on unfair trading practices and the common market organisation - CMO), simplification of CAP-related rules, enhanced crisis preparedness tools, and actions related to generational renewal and stakeholder engagement.
More broadly, the Vision aims to balance economic viability with environmental sustainability and rural development, supported by innovation, research and simplification. Further initiatives are planned or under preparation, such as a livestock strategy, a plan for protein supply and a fertilisers action plan, as well as tools to support sustainability and digitalisation.
Based on information provided by the European Commission, the Council provided further political guidance in relation to the handling of trade-related agriculture issues.
The challenging geopolitical situation faced by the Union in 2025 continued into 2026 and escalated further with as yet unpredictable effects on the agrifood supply chain, including trade. The impact on the cost of producing, transporting and distributing food and consequently on the prices for consumers may be quite serious. The situation is further complicated by a deteriorating animal health status in many parts of the Union.
Member states expressed support for the safeguard measures adopted in the Mercosur agreement and some of them called for these measures to be extended to all trade agreements. They also welcomed the European Commission’s plan for reciprocity measures, which includes reducing the Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for the most harmful substances to zero. Additionally, they praised the Commission’s launch of an impact assessment and action plan that may lead to a full ban on products containing substances prohibited in the European Union. They also asked for an updated report that looks at how Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) affect the EU's agrifood sector, taking into account recent developments.
Member states also welcomed the Commission’s commitment to enhancing border controls within the EU and increasing audits of third countries. At the same time, they highlighted the need for a larger crisis management fund in the upcoming financial period, based on lessons learned from recent experiences.
Finally, in the light of the current geopolitical situation, member states urged the Commission to quickly develop a comprehensive plan to reduce production costs, particularly in the event that the energy crisis is prolonged. This should include measures to address the rising costs of fertilisers and other agricultural inputs.
Today’s Council also adopted as an A item the updated Guidelines for the EU and its member states position for G20 /G7 forums on issues related to agriculture. The general aim is to promote sustainable agriculture and food security through multilateral cooperation, emphasising resilience, climate action, and support for smallholder farming. Key priorities include reinforcing global value chains, advancing sustainability, and aligning agricultural trade policies with international agreements.
On the initiative of the Cyprus presidency, the ministers held an exchange of views on advancing the energy transition in EU fisheries and aquaculture. The discussion focused on how to accelerate the shift away from fossil fuels while maintaining the sector’s economic viability and competitiveness. Ministers talked about possible regulatory reforms and simplification, the mobilisation of public and private investment, and the development of suitable infrastructure and technology. The debate also addressed future business models and the role of member states in supporting a resilient, sustainable and climate-neutral sector by 2050, taking into account the diversity of fisheries and aquaculture systems across the EU.
The discussion took place against a broader policy backdrop in which the energy transition is a central component of the EU’s sustainability agenda and of the Vision 2040 for fisheries and aquaculture. The sector remains highly dependent on fossil fuels, making it vulnerable to energy price volatility and threatening its long-term viability. While efforts are underway to support a transition to renewable and low-carbon energy sources, significant challenges persist, including ageing fleets, low profitability, difficult working conditions and limited generational renewal. These structural issues, combined with geopolitical pressures and competition for maritime space, complicate the transition and underline the need for coordinated action.
Progress so far highlights the need for investment in infrastructure, technology and innovation, alongside better access to funding. However, high costs and limited financial capacity continue to constrain the uptake of low-emission solutions, particularly for small-scale operators, underling the importance of coordinated EU and national support.
Member States particularly welcomed the European Commission’s announcement that intends to rapidly activate the relevant provisions of the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) to provide substantial support to the fisheries sector in response to surging fuel prices.
The Council reached a decision to amend the fishing opportunities Regulation. The total allowable catch for North-East Atlantic mackerel was set at 299,010 tons which is aligned at the level of the four coastal state arrangement.
Under the leadership of the Cyprus Presidency, which considered the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) recommendations, the Council opted for a balanced approach, necessary to maintain ecological, social, and economic sustainability, in line with the principles of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP).
The decision has garnered support among member states, as the compromise is regarded as maintaining the sustainability of the mackerel stock and ensuring the long-term viability of the EU fishing industry.
The Council tackled several 'any other business' items, all in public sessions.
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