Member States have endorsed the European Commission’s proposal to allocate €98.6 million from the agricultural reserve to support farmers in Spain, Croatia, Cyprus, Latvia, and Hungary impacted by extreme weather events and natural disasters since spring 2024.
The funds will be distributed as follows: €68 million to Spain, €16.2 million to Hungary, €6.7 million to Croatia, €4.2 million to Latvia, and €3.5 million to Cyprus. This exceptional support aims to help farmers recover from production losses and subsequent income reductions, according to a press release. Member States may complement these amounts with up to 200% in national funding.
National authorities must distribute the aid by 30 September 2025, ensuring farmers are the direct beneficiaries. By 31 May 2025, the five Member States must report to the Commission on implementation details, including allocation criteria, expected impact, payment schedules, and measures to prevent market distortion and overcompensation.
Next Steps
Following the 19 February approval by Member States, the Commission will formally adopt the proposal. It will then be published in the Official Journal of the European Union and take effect the day after publication, allowing the five affected Member States to implement it immediately.
Background
Farmers in Spain, Croatia, Cyprus, Latvia, and Hungary have suffered severe economic losses due to extreme weather events and natural disasters.
Spain faced drought due to a rain deficit and extreme heat in summer 2024. In late October and early November, severe storms linked to DANA caused record rainfall and devastating floods, marking the worst disaster in Valencia this century. Fruit, vegetable, wine, olive, and livestock sectors were particularly affected.
Cyprus endured low rainfall and high temperatures in early 2024, creating dry conditions that impacted cereals, olives, and fruit and vegetable production.
Latvia experienced record-low winter temperatures, spring frost, and heavy summer rain, affecting cereals, rapeseed, fruit, vegetables, and potatoes.
Croatia and Hungary suffered extreme summer heat and drought, severely impacting maize, sunflower, soybean, sugar beet, fruit, potato, and wine production.
The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) 2023–2027 includes a €450 million annual agricultural reserve to address market disruptions and exceptional events. Given the rising frequency of extreme weather, the Commission continues to stress the need for stronger risk management tools, proactive measures, and enhanced farm resilience across the EU.
