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On June 23 and 24, the Agriculture and Fisheries Council was held in Luxembourg, during which several key issues were discussed, including:
Animal welfare in transport: The presidency updated the Council on the progress made to date on the proposal for the protection of animals during transport and ministers exchanged views on ways to take the discussions forward. Overall, ministers welcomed the progress made during the Polish presidency, underlying the importance of ensuring a high level of animal welfare, by improving conditions during transport. At the same time, they agreed that it was also important to avoid administrative burden and to achieve a balanced approach that will allow to sustain competitiveness and food sovereignty.
Omnibus on agriculture: The Council welcomed the simplification of environmental requirements and controls, and the greater focus on incentives. The Council also welcomed the fact that member states will benefit from greater flexibility in adapting their CAP strategic plans. Many delegations questioned the introduction of an authority in charge of data governance under the CAP, arguing that this would become an administrative burden for national authorities, without any notable simplifications for farmers. Ministers also considered partially organic farms and farms converting to organic farming should also benefit from the proposed exemptions for organic farmers. Ministers also continued to emphasise the need for a strong and dedicated budget for the CAP.
International agrifood trade: The EU agrifood trade balance remained largely positive at € 64 billion in 2024. The importance of advancing agreements with the United States, Ukraine (DCFTA), and Mercosur was highlighted, always guaranteeing safeguard mechanisms to protect European production.
June 24, 2025/ Consilium/European Union.
https://www.consilium.europa.eu
