Policy

Agriculture and rural development

The common agricultural policy (CAP) – one of Europe’s oldest policies – has evolved along with the EU. Today's CAP supports a modern, market-oriented farming sector ensuring the provision of safe, affordable, high quality food, produced sustainably and respecting strict standards (environmental, animal welfare, food safety, etc), as well as supporting investment in the broader rural economy.

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Policies

  • Agriculture and environment

    The EU has a range of policies to address issues faced by farming such as climate change, biodiversity loss and other challenges to natural resources.

  • Direct support and transparency

    The CAP Direct Payments system provides support for farm incomes, linked to respecting a range of EU rules, including the new "Greening" requirements.

  • Rural development

    The EU’s rural development programmes help people and companies in rural areas address economic, environmental and social challenges and opportunities.

  • Organic farming

    EU laws ensure that ‘organic’ means the same for consumers and producers, with EU-wide regulations that cover the organic farming supply chain.

  • Quality of farming products

    EU quality schemes, such as geographical indications, protect and guarantee a particular know-how and a specific link with a geographical area.

  • Trade and promotion

    The EU food sector has been able to expand exports, helped by EU trade agreements and enhanced promotion activities on non-EU markets.

  • Forestry

    EU rural development funds support the implementation of sustainable forest management by EU countries, also improving competitiveness and creating jobs.

  • Agricultural markets and analysis

    With a more market-oriented sector, market transparency and analysis is needed to anticipate trends, while certain policy tools remain available.