After months of negotiations, the European Union (EU) has reached an agreement on the future of agricultural policy, known as the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). The deal, worth €387 billion, will fund farming activities across the EU until 2027.

The main goal of the CAP is to support farmers and ensure a sustainable supply of food across the EU. The revised policy aims to address key challenges such as climate change, biodiversity, and rural development. It also aims to simplify the policy, making it easier for farmers to navigate and comply with.

One of the most important changes introduced in the new CAP is the introduction of eco-schemes. These schemes aim to incentivize farmers to adopt greener practices and promote biodiversity on their land. Farmers who participate in these schemes will receive financial incentives, which will be funded by redistributing unused subsidies.

Another key change is the shift towards a fairer distribution of subsidies. Under the new policy, larger farms with high yields will receive lower subsidies, while smaller farms with lower yields will receive higher subsidies. This is intended to promote a more equitable distribution of resources and support smaller, more sustainable farming practices.

The new policy also includes provisions to address the impact of climate change on agriculture. Farmers will be required to adopt more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, such as reducing their use of pesticides, fertilizers and other chemicals. They will also be required to reduce their carbon footprint and implement measures to promote carbon sequestration.

The CAP will also support rural development projects, such as the creation of new infrastructure and services, and the development of new economic activities in rural areas. This is intended to promote regional development and create new opportunities for rural communities.

Overall, the new CAP represents a significant step towards a more sustainable and equitable agricultural policy for the EU. By prioritizing environmental protection, supporting small farmers, and promoting rural development, the EU is taking steps to ensure the long-term viability of its agricultural sector.