Maintaining the current size of the budget for the Common Agricultural Policy is of utmost importance for Bulgaria. This was stated by the Minister of Agriculture and Food, Dr. Georgi Tahov, at a meeting with the European Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Christoph Hansen and agricultural producers, which was held in the building of the EC Representation in Sofia, BNR reported.
He added that the proposed financial package for our country for the period after 2027, reduced by over 20%, is unacceptable and would seriously hinder the achievement of the goals for a competitive and sustainable agricultural policy.
Minister Tahov recalled that the national debate on the future of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) in Bulgaria began months ago, with active discussions being held with all stakeholders on the EC proposals.
"The Ministry of Agriculture and Food is in close symbiosis with the industry organizations. We work together in a dialogic and transparent process, including in the formation of the national position on the future of the CAP. It must be tailored to the needs of our farmers, provide targeted and sufficient financial resources and be based on the successful and reliable two-pillar model,“ the Minister of Agriculture pointed out.
In his words, the implementation of the “Single National Plan“ approach instead of simplification, it would lead to a complicated structure and decision-making process, as well as uncertainty among farmers.
"Therefore, we believe that the CAP should not be part of the Single Fund", Minister Tahov was categorical and emphasized that maintaining the levels of environmental ambition requires an equivalent level of support for farmers.
"The envisaged national co-financing for measures that are 100% financed by the EU within the current CAP creates a basis for a shortage of support, distortion of competition and loss of common features for the policy", added Dr. Tahov.
The Minister also emphasized the importance of financing the processing of agricultural produce, as well as investments in irrigation infrastructure outside the farms. According to him, these activities should be explicitly included among those eligible for funding in the future CAP.
"Regarding financial rules, Bulgaria stands for the preservation of the N+3 rule, which ensures flexibility and better planning of investment measures. The proposal for automatic deduction of N+1 funds requires revision“, explained Minister Tahov.
The Ministry will continue to defend the national position in the upcoming meetings with the European Commission and the Member States.
"We are certain that a stable and predictable political framework will preserve the vitality of the agricultural sector and guarantee its sustainable development“, said Dr. Georgi Tahov.
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Oct 11, 2025 18:15 497