b"measure and improve their farm-level performance. A WaterEuroseeds particularly welcomes the emphasis on:Resilience Strategy will address the pressing need for more Ensuring an attractive agricultural sector by providing sta-efficient water uses. bility, fair incomes and access to innovative business models toFair Living and Working Conditions in Rural Areas:secure generational renewal and attract young talent to farming.The Commission will bring an updated Rural Action Plan Strengthening competitiveness and resilience by ensuring to ensure virbrant, functional rural areas. An annual Fooda level playing field in global trade and aligning production Dialogue will launch with a broad range of actors, includingstandards for imported goods with EU regulations will reinforce consumers, farmers, industry and public authorities to findfood security and sovereignty.solutions for issues such as food affordability and innovation. Supporting a future-proof sector by balancing climate Reducing food waste and addressing societal concerns foraction with food security, plant breeding innovations, improv-animal welfare will also be closely looked at by the Commissioning access to biopesticides, and recognizing farmers role in going forward. sustainable practices.The future common agricultural policy (CAP), as part of the upcoming MFF (Multiannual Financial Framework) proposal, will be simpler and more targeted, with support more directed towards farmers who actively engage in food produc-tion, with a particular focus on young farmers and those farm- OUR FARMERS TAKE CENTRE STAGE IN THE EU'S ing in areas of natural constraints.The Vision is our resolute response to the agri-food sectorsFOOD PRODUCTION SYSTEM. IT IS THANKS TO call for actionshaping a future that is competitive, resil- THEIR DAILY, HARD WORK THAT ALL OF US HAVE ient, fair and attractive for generations to come. It embodies a thriving Europe, where rural areas are vibrant and connectedSAFE AND HIGH-QUALITY FOOD.hubs of heritage and innovation, Raffaele Fitto, executive viceUrsula von der Leyenpresident for cohesion & reforms, said. The Commission will work with the agri-food sector to enhance its competitiveness and resilience, reinforcing the local dimension and restoring the vital link between food, territory, seasonality, cultures and traditions. Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Cristophe HansenGarlich von Essen, Secretary General of Euroseeds, stated: said food and farming are vital for Europe.This vision is a much-needed step forward in shaping the We need the agri-food sector to flourish and compete infuture of agriculture in Europe. The European seed sector a fair global marketplace, with enough resilience to cope withstands ready to contribute to the success of this initiative by crises and shocks, he said. We must also ensure our own foodproviding more modern, performing varieties that enhance pro-sovereignty, given the risks and vulnerabilities of todays fast- ductivity, resilience, and sustainability. We strongly support the changing world.Commissions focus on innovation, simplification, and ensuring He said It will make the sector more sustainable and helpa fair and competitive market for European farmers.agriculture to remain an attractive and remunerative sector soAs the European Commission moves forward with its that enough young people join the profession. implementation plans, Euroseeds remains committed to col-The EU Commission will propose a comprehensive sim- laborating with policymakers and stakeholders to ensure that plification package for the current agricultural legislativeplant breeding and seed innovation continue to play a pivotal framework, along with an EU digital strategy for agriculture torole in achieving a resilient and sustainable agri-food system for support the transition to digital-ready farming. Europe, von Essen said. Euroseeds welcomed the European Commissions Vision for Agriculture and Food, as a concrete milestone towards a new landscape for Europes agrifood sector. The Commissions focus on simplifying policies and foster- ON THE WEBWHERE ing innovation and digitalization aligns with Euroseeds long-standing advocacy for a modernized, science-driven approachThis article has been shortened for print. Read the full version atto agricultural sustainability and competitiveness.seedworld.com/sustain-eu30 SEEDWORLD.COM/CANADA JULY 2025"