The position adopted by the Council on tariffs imposed on Russian and Belarusian fertilisers completely disregards the concerns and proposals of the farming sector
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Farmers and Agri-Cooperatives seek greater recognition in the revision of the EU energy security framework
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McCain Foods, the maker of 1 in 4 fries worldwide, is making big strides towards its regenerative agriculture commitment, digging in with the aim to help combat climate change over time and secure the future of everyone’s favorite food, the golden French fry. According to research, most people are not sure what regenerative agriculture is or its potential role in mitigating the impacts of climate change, with a survey finding that less than 1 in 10 Canadians understand the concept of regenerative agriculture practices, with 26% of Canadians having never heard of it.
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The Vision for Agriculture and Food presented today by the European Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, Christophe Hansen, aims to show that the farmers’ distress, which culminated in a significant protest a year ago, has been well understood in Brussels. However, how this renewed political message will concretely translate into action remains an open question, especially in light of the concerning ideas initially put forward by the European Commission regarding the Multi Annual Financial Framework and the CAP budget .
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On the very day the European Commission unveils its strategic compass for European competitiveness, it has simultaneously introduced a proposal to impose sanctions on Russian and Belarusian fertilisers—a move that will severely impact agricultural production and competitiveness. Without a clear diversification strategy, European farmers will soon find themselves up against the wall.
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The High-Level Group on Wine Policy has issued a set of recommendations aimed at securing the fitness of the EU’s wine sector. These recommendations were endorsed by the 27 EU countries and shared with representatives of key stakeholder organisations at the Group’s final meeting.
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On Tuesday, on the margins of the EU Agri-Food Days, the European Commission published its legislative proposals to strengthen farmers’ position in the agri-food supply chain and enhance cross-border enforcement against unfair trading practices (UTPs).
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Another disappointing season, with difficulties piling up: EU Institutions must stop dragging the sugar beet sector to disaster!
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European agricultural organisations are calling on EU policymakers to reconsider the EU-Mercosur trade agreement following Brazil's recent suspension of beef exports from female cattle.
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The European Commission’s intention to finalize the Mercosur agreement at the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro on November 18-19 is an extremely worrying development for the European agricultural community.
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The 11th edition of the Congress of European farmers, organised by Copa and Cogeca and supported by the Romanian Alliance for Agriculture and Cooperation (AAC), was held in Bucharest from 23rd to 25th October. With more than 400 participants and panellists, the programme focused on setting the course for the competitive and sustainable future of European Agriculture for the next political term.
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As the perspective of concluding negotiations on the EU-Mercosur trade agreement at the G20 meeting in Rio de Janeiro gets closer a proposal has emerged in Brussels to set up a “compensation fund” aimed at pacifying European farmers. For our sectors, this appears more like a fake quick fix rather than a genuine solution. It fails to address key concerns, particularly regarding the impact on sensitive sectors and the lack of reciprocity in production standards under the current terms of the agreement.
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Today, European Commission’s President Ursula von der Leyen presented the outcomes of the strategic dialogue on the future of agriculture. In this intensive seven-month process, CEJA committed to represent the voice of new generations in agriculture and rural areas, and continued to act as an enabler of dialogue in line with its own work methodologies.
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Today, the Commission proposed to mobilise €77 million from the agricultural reserve to support farmers from the fruit, vegetables and wine sectors of Austria, Czechia, Poland who have recently suffered from adverse climatic events of unprecedented magnitude, as well as Portuguese wine producers who face serious market disturbances.
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Today, the Commission’s proposal to make the use of geo-tagged photos voluntary for Member States gathered a positive opinion from national representatives, paving the way for its adoption.
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The EU agri-food chain Observatory (AFCO) held its first meeting on Wednesday 17 July. Its objective is to better understand the functioning of the supply chain and bring increased transparency on prices, structure of costs and distribution of margins and added value, while respecting confidentiality and competition rules. The launch of this Observatory was first announced in March 2024 as one of the measures to strengthen the position of farmers in the food supply chain and reinforce the trust between all actors throughout the chain.
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Build trust, foster a collaborative approach and keep monitoring food supply:
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In April 2024, the EU agri-food trade surplus reached €5 billion, still 4% higher than in April 2023, despite a reduction of 25% compared to the previous month. Exports reached €19.8 billion, mainly due to increased prices of olives and olive oil. Imports represented €14.8 billion. Close to 45% of EU imports is composed of a few product categories: coffee, tea, cocoa, spices; fruit and nuts; and oilseeds and protein crops. These are the main findings of the latest monthly agri-food trade report published today by the European Commission.
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In 2023, 48.3 million tonnes of potatoes were harvested in the EU, a slight increase compared with 2022 when 47.5 million tonnes were harvested
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Today, the newly constituted European Parliament re-elected Ms. Ursula von der Leyen as President of the European Commission after an exchange of views in plenary that highlighted the importance of agriculture. The start of this new mandate is a crucial moment to ensure young farmers' voices are heard. The new strategy for the farming and food sector can be decisive in its capacity to set a long-term vision with prospects for the younger generation.
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Agriculture has been prominently featured in the European elections, frequently mentioned by candidates and highlighted in party manifestos. From the Farm to Fork experience, to the crises that have rocked Europe, and the significant agricultural protests earlier this year, a consensus has emerged: agriculture is one of the three pillars of the EU's strategic autonomy, alongside energy and defence. How the EU addresses these three critical areas over the next five years will be crucial for its future.
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This morning, the Environment Council voted to approve the Nature Restoration Law (NRL), with the slimmest majority possible, and one which was defined by the individual voices of ministers and not the positions of national governments! This course, deriving from a flawed proposal, will cause legal battles at regional, national, and European levels, with the future unclear as to how or when this law will be implemented.
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A European Parliament push to ease new EU rules on seed marketing has sparked concern in the potato sector, as stakeholders warn that the draft legislation could increase the transmission risks of crop diseases.
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In Strasbourg this week, the European Parliament adopted two Commission proposals regarding CAP simplification package for the short, medium, and long-term.
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European Agri Transition Fund finances small businesses and mid-caps in the farm and food sectors, particularly in Eastern Europe.
The EIF has committed €40 million to a fund aiding the transition to a fairer, healthier and more sustainable food system in Europe.
The EIF investment is backed by the InvestEU programme.
The portfolio will be managed by Switzerland-based INOKS Capital.
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As the European Union prepares for the forthcoming elections, the European Council of Young Farmers (CEJA) is proud to announce the publication of its Manifesto for generational renewal in agriculture. The document outlines 10 critical points that demand the unwavering consideration of candidates competing for seats in the European Parliament: (1) Access to investment; (2) Climate change and water; (3) Access to land; (4) Future of the CAP; (5) Innovation, education, knowledge & skills; (6) Governance and legal certainty; (7) Income and position in the value chain; (8) Rural areas and livelihood; (9) Youth involvement and funding; (10) A better consideration of the diversity of farming systems.
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In the middle of ongoing farmers protests in Brussels today, a Copa and Cogeca delegation led by Christiane Lambert and Lennart Nilsson met with the Belgian Presidency, David Clarinval, ahead of the Agri-Fish meeting. Copa and Cogeca also exchanged with Commissioner Wojciechowski.
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Open letter VDL
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The European Commission officially adopted a regulation which grants a partial exemption for European farmers from the conditionality rule on land lying fallow. This follows the Commission's proposal presented on 31 January, and discussions with Member States in committee meetings. The Regulation will enter into force tomorrow, 14 February, and will apply retroactively as of 1 January for one year – that is, until 31 December 2024.
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The Council and the European Parliament are presently deliberating on the Commission’s proposal for the renewal of Ukraine ATM. In Brussels, there has been a pervasive sense of uncertainty regarding an approach to address the issue for weeks. Should the Commission's proposed text remain unamended, the economic sustainability of the EU's poultry, eggs, sugar, grain, and honey sectors would be jeopardised.
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With the text adopted, by a high majority, by the joint Committees vote on the Green Claims Directive proposal, farmers who want to communicate on their environmental practices will be required to go through a double verification process, making them think twice before applying any of these practices.
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Let me add a few words on the discussion on agriculture. Farmers play an essential role in Europe's economy and society. Their work contributes greatly to our food security and indeed also to our way of life. And they are key actors in ensuring the sustainable use of natural resources.
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Copa and Cogeca’s first impressions after this afternoon’s meeting with President Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Ministers Alexander De Croo and Mark Rutte
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Half of Member States face farming protests - It's up to the EU to respond to this emergency!
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In the context of the Belgian EU Presidency, the Agency for Agriculture and Fisheries is publishing its new Agriculture Report (LARA). The ninth edition of the this report, which is stipulated by decree, presents Flemish agriculture and horticulture on the basis of structural, economic, social and environmental indicators, and also covers agricultural policy and related policies. The final section consists of a European benchmarking: how does Flemish agriculture compare to other EU member states?
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Regarding the discussion in various EU Member States about tax exemptions for agricultural diesel, the European Agricultural Machinery Association (CEMA) emphasizes the critical need to maintain the competitiveness of agriculture amidst evolving political demands. In light of this, CEMA advocates for the creation of EU political framework conditions that provide farmers with reliable prospects and incentives to navigate the changing agricultural landscape.
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Key figures on the European food chain provides a selection of recent data from the domains of agriculture and fisheries statistics, as well as the wider farm to fork chain. The publication is divided into ten chapters, providing facts and figures about farms, farmers, farm production and prices, the economic performance of the agricultural sector, fisheries activities, food and beverages processing, trade, distribution, wholesale activities and the consumption of food and beverages. It concludes with a chapter on environmental issues related to some of the stages of the food chain. It presents key messages for the EU, and highlights the main players and key specialisations, accompanying analysis with intuitive visualisations and innovative data presentations. Information is presented for the European Union (EU) and its Member States, and is supplemented (when available) with data for EFTA members.
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The EU's legislation on animal transport dates back almost 50 years and the last major overhaul was done in 2004, this is almost 20 years ago. Today's proposal for a much-needed revision is part of the EU's Farm to Fork Strategy for sustainable agriculture and food production and builds further on the latest scientific insights and technological developments.
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The European Commission adopted today Guidelines on how to design sustainability agreements in the field of agriculture (‘Guidelines') using a novel exclusion from EU competition rules introduced by the recently reformed Common Agricultural Policy (‘CAP').
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The European Commission will allocate €185.9 million in 2024 to fund promotion activities for sustainable and high-quality EU agri-food products at home and abroad. The 2024 promotion policy work programme adopted by the Commission aims to develop new market opportunities, while taking into account the political priorities, analysis of projected exports to existing and emerging markets, as well as contributions from stakeholders.
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On 23th of November 2023, European Commission's report confirms the important role of CAP Strategic Plans for maintaining farmers' income and food security, while supporting EU agriculture's transition to a sustainable farming model in the 2023-2027 period.
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After the slowdown of July 2023, the EU agri-food trade balance reached €5.7 billion in August 2023. The cumulative trade balance (from January to August 2023) reached €44.3 billion, which is €7.5 billion higher compared to the same period in 2022.
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Today, the European Parliament adopted its initiative report on generational renewal in agriculture. CEJA welcomes the report and its focus on the main obstacles faced by the younger generation, such as access to land, access to credit, education, and training.
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CEMA, the association representing the European agricultural machinery industry issued a new position paper titled “Renewable and low-carbon fuels for climate-smart EU agricultural machinery: circular agriculture in action”. The paper sets out to outline the different options to deliver a significant reduction of agricultural equipment’s CO2 footprint. The assumption is that conventional fuel is still a contributor to the overall agricultural carbon footprint. Agriculture can only become sustainable when it overcomes its major dependency on fossil fuel.
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The European Agricultural Machinery Industry Association CEMA has released a Policy Paper on Rebuilding Ukraine’s Agriculture after the Full-Scale War: A Humanitarian and Economic Imperative. CEMA members often describe their purpose as feeding the world; in this context, CEMA is particularly concerned about the tragic consequences of the war in Ukraine on global food security. With this paper, CEMA wants to demonstrate its unwavering support for the Ukrainian people. CEMA expresses a genuine desire for a fair and prompt establishment of peace in Ukraine, allowing for the immediate initiation of reconstruction efforts.
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Last year, Europe experienced its hottest summer and second warmest year on record, according to the 2022 edition of the Copernicus Climate Change Service’s (C3S*) European State of the Climate (ESOTC) report.
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Today, the Commission is responding to the European Citizens' Initiative (ECI) “Save bees and farmers! Towards a bee-friendly agriculture for a healthy environment”.
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The potato is the main food crop grown in the Andean region. More than 50% of small-scale producers in the region lack access to water and irrigation systems, which negatively impacts crop yields. Most losses, which can be as high as 95%, occur during production and stem from poor crop management practices that yield just 8 tonnes per hectare compared to the optimum of 16 tonnes per hectare, depending on the crop. Variable climate patterns, leading to frequent frost and droughts, also increase losses.
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There is much debate about whether the (mostly synthetic) pesticide active substances (AS) in conventional agriculture have different non-target effects than the natural AS in organic agriculture. We evaluated the official EU pesticide database to compare 256 AS that may only be used on conventional farmland with 134 AS that are permitted on organic farmland. As a benchmark, we used (i) the hazard classifications of the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), and (ii) the dietary and occupational health-based guidance values, which were established in the authorization procedure. Our comparison showed that 55% of the AS used only in conventional agriculture contained health or environmental hazard statements, but only 3% did of the AS authorized for organic agriculture. Warnings about possible harm to the unborn child, suspected carcinogenicity, or acute lethal effects were found in 16% of the AS used in conventional agriculture, but none were found in organic agriculture. Furthermore, the establishment of health-based guidance values for dietary and non-dietary exposures were relevant by the European authorities for 93% of conventional AS, but only for 7% of organic AS. We, therefore, encourage policies and strategies to reduce the use and risk of pesticides, and to strengthen organic farming in order to protect biodiversity and maintain food security.
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In a ruling (Case C-688/21) handed down on 7 February 2023, the European Court of Justice decided upon the genome of a living species that is modified without adding foreign DNA and is not subject to the EU GMO Directive.
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Faced with an economic plunge in the potato starch sector, the UNPT calls on producers to mobilize on February 8 at the call of the FNSEA Grand Bassin Parisien to make their demands heard by the Government.
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Farmers arrive with tractors at the Esplanades des Invalides during a demonstration against "constraints" in agriculture, in particular restrictions on the use of pesticides, in Paris, on February 8, 2023.
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Researchers at ETH Zurich and the Carnegie Institution for Science have shown how nitrogen fertilizer could be produced more sustainably. This is necessary not only to protect the climate, but also to reduce dependence on imported natural gas and to increase food security.
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The European Commission today launched a public consultation inviting all interested parties to comment on its draft proposal for Guidelines on how to design sustainability agreements in the field of agriculture (‘Guidelines') using the novel exclusion from EU competition rules introduced during the recent reform of the common agricultural policy (‘CAP').
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Scientists at the University of Maine are evaluating if lobster shells can cultivate beneficial microbial communities that ward off soil borne potato pathogens. The novel shell-to-spud combination may connect two cornerstones of Maine’s food system and enhance the state’s circular economy.
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In the fast-growing potato sector, innovations are the common thread that enables efficient, competitive and sustainable growth. An independent group of experts has carefully selected the most relevant innovations in the chain, which offer significant added value to you as a user and to the further sustainability and professionalisation of the potato sector.
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The European Commission welcomes the provisional agreement reached last night with the European Parliament and Council to increase the ambition of the EU's Effort Sharing Regulation (ESR).
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TThe Brazilian election held on 30th October 2022 was historic in many respects and will have repercussions far beyond the country's borders. For the EU, Lula's election is seen as a signal: the EU-Mercosur trade deal can be taken out of the freezer! In fact, the polemic deal signed with the Latin-American trade block in 2019, has not been yet ratified.
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At the COP27 UN Climate Change Conference starting this weekend in Sharm el-Sheikh, the Commission will call on all Parties to take urgent action to bring down greenhouse gas emissions and respect the commitments they made under the Paris Agreement, as well as in the Glasgow Climate Pact adopted last year at COP26.
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McCain Foods, the world’s largest manufacturer of prepared potato products, is entering the Metaverse and introducing new Regen Fries as part of the #SaveOurSoil initiative. Regen Fries are made with potatoes that are grown using regenerative farming methods which build soil health, improve biodiversity, and enhance on-farm resilience to climate change.
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The 10th edition of the Congress of European farmers organised by Copa and Cogeca and supported by the Croatian Chamber of Agriculture (HPK), was held in Šibenik from 12 to 14 October. Among the 400 participants and panelists, concerns related to the multiple aftershocks of Covid-19, the war in Ukraine and the climate change effects marked the discussions. A consensus arised from all stakeholders involved in the panels: food security and sustainability must be the priority objectives, with innovation and investments connecting both.
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Yara calls on the European Union and national governments to act urgently and decisively to ensure Europe reduces, and not strengthens, its dependency on Russia for food and fertilizers. A strong European fertilizer industry is crucial not only for ensuring food security in Europe and globally but also for ensuring that Europe can continue to take the lead in the green transition.
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Today, the ‘Save bees and farmers! Towards a bee-friendly agriculture for a healthy environment' initiative has become the seventh successful European Citizens' Initiative (ECI).
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Agriculture is one of the important sectors in transforming the European economy and society towards a long-term sustainability. While contributing to this transition, European farmers will at the same time face several future challenges for agriculture and food production and consumption, especially regarding climate change and resource scarcity, technological change, infrastructural issues and food demand/dietary habits. The study ‘Farmers of the future’ explores who will be the farmers in the medium- and long-term future who will be dealing with those challenges. This report presents the results of this exploration, describing the 2040 landscape of farmers and possible policy implications.
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Almost three quarters of the world’s current food production will face extreme risks from heat stress by 2045, jeopardising the health of outdoor workers and threatening the world’s supply of key crops, according to our new research.
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Today, the European Commission approved the first package of CAP strategic plans for seven countries: Denmark, Finland, France, Ireland, Poland, Portugal, and Spain.
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* Drought, heatwaves set to bring worst potato yields in years
* Small, poor-quality crop may push up prices for fries
* Producers grapple with costs, consumers with food inflation
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Today, the Commission published guidelines to help Member States and stakeholders apply the rules on the safe reuse of treated urban waste water for agricultural irrigation.
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PJoint statement from EU biofuels, food and feed chain partners – from harvesting to transformation for food, feed and energy uses – after the ITRE vote to preserve a key role for crop-based biofuels
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Over 180 exhibitors signed up – broad technical program: from intercropping, autonomous machines to direct farm sales – machinery demonstrations – September 7 and 8, 2022 in Springe- Mittelrode near Hanover, Germany
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According to the latest Eurobarometer on agriculture and the CAP published today, nearly half of Europeans think that securing a stable supply of food in the EU at all times should be a main objective of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), an increase of 6 percentage points since 2020.
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These events have disrupted all four indicators of food security i.e., food availability, food access, food use, and quality as well as production stability. The world population is estimated to reach about 9.7 billion wherein people will demand 70% more food than is consumed today (FAO, 2018). The additional demand will further put immense pressure on the already fragile global agri-food system.
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From basic hand tools to sophisticated motorized equipment, mechanization covers all levels of farming and processing technologies. Where it is adopted, it can offer a range of benefits, helping to reduce hard labor, relieve labor shortages, improve productivity and efficient use of resources, enhance market access and mitigate climate related hazards. It can be a game changer for farm work – and a key component in developing sustainable agrifood systems.
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Potatoes could make a greater contribution to global food security, according to the director-general of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations (UN). Qu Dongyu keynote speech to the 11th World Potato Congress (WPC) in Dublin on Monday, May 30 outlined that the total production of the crop could double in the next decade.
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Today, the European Commission proposed an exceptional measure funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) to allow Member States to pay a one-off lump sum to farmers and agri-food businesses affected by significant increases in input costs. Such increases in prices, notably for energy, fertiliser and animal feed, are disrupting the agricultural sector and rural communities, leading to liquidity and cash flow problems for farmers and small rural businesses active in processing, marketing or development of agricultural products. By directly addressing these cash-flow challenges, helping to keep them afloat, the support will address the market disturbances and thus contribute to global food security.
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Potato production in the current crop year is estimated to be 53.60 mt, down from 56.17 mt last year, according to the Ministry of Agriculture's first estimate of horticulture production. Production has been hampered in West Bengal, Punjab, and Haryana due to heavy rains in November and December of last year, just before sowing.
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Copa and Cogeca held their presidency meetings this week in Brussels. Speakers from the Commission, the FAO and UNAF analysed the complexity of the Ukrainian, European and global agri-food situation. These exchanges were at odds with the stances taken by Executive Vice President, Frans Timmermans, at the same time in the Environment Committee.
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While the COVID crisis has certainly represented an unprecedented challenge for us, I am happy to be able to say that it has also reinforced my belief in the potential and strength of our sector. Agri-cooperatives have in this time of crisis once again proved their ability to innovate, to face challenges and to further strengthen their resilience while delivering to consumers. Great innovate efforts had been put in place to ensure food security, readjust the mechanisms of the value chain, remain competitive on the market, and address the arising needs of consumers and our food chain partners
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Following yesterday’s Agri-Fish Council meeting, Copa and Cogeca welcome the adopted Council’s conclusions on the European Commission’s communication on sustainable carbon cycles in the agriculture and forestry sectors.
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The Russian invasion of Ukraine has disrupted many markets and value chains globally. Besides the energy and agricultural commodities that have been widely analysed and commented on, there is another market where the war is highly impacting European agriculture, namely fertilisers.
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Today the European Parliament’s Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development held an “Exchange of views on the disruption in the EU-GB trade in seed potatoes"1 to which Europatat was invited to speak. Europatat used this opportunity to highlight the impact of there being no agreement on the European potato supply chain.
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The European Potato Processors’ Association (EUPPA) released a special report highlighting progress made in recent years by the sector across key areas of environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility.
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As a conflict of a terrible violence and tragedy unfolds in Ukraine, the European Council of Young Farmers (CEJA) wants to express its profound sadness and solidarity with all the people affected directly and indirectly. With the peace and stability of the European continent at stake, and the physical and mental integrity of neighbouring communities undermined, it is the food security of millions of people now under threat. Europe’s young farmers call on EU institutions to take the necessary steps to ensure that food systems remain resilient and to support stranded communities.
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PotatoEurope 2022 will take place from 7-8 September in Rittergut Bockerode near Hanover.
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Potato growers acknowledge and appreciate better contract prices. All inputs have shown rising prices in the last months, going from energy to fertilizers, plant protection products, and construction prices but also machines and spare parts!
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After the July announcements by the Commission, the proposals of the ‘Fit for 55’ package are now making their way through the European institutions, with debates expected in the European Parliament, notably on the revision of the Renewable Energy directive.
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This week, again, the European agricultural news has partly revolved around the question of the studies on the impact of the Farm to Fork strategy, whether it be the hearing with Julien Denormandie in the European Parliament or the official academic release of the two studies by the University of Wageningen, one of which, dedicated to the impacts on the livestock sector, was commissioned by the members of the European Livestock Voice.
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Agriculture drones can be used to do anything from precision agriculture, to efficiently dispersing weed control or fertilizers, to optimizing field management. Drone manufacturer DJI shares its insights.
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The issue of large carnivores and the damage they inflict upon farmers’ livelihoods has been the subject of political debate since the first encounter between predators and livestock farmers. However, despite all the efforts of farmers and the measures put in place by the authorities of the countries concerned in the European Union, the strict protection status of large carnivores renders the measures ineffective, and the actions taken in the context of the debate with a view to establishing harmonious coexistence between humans and wild predators insufficient.
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The European Commission unveiled today the long-awaited communication on “restoring sustainable carbon cycles” (the so-called carbon farming communication), which will be followed by a legislative proposal on carbon removal certification by the end of 2022. Copa and Cogeca welcome the inclusion of carbon farming in the political agenda and future developments to capitalize agriculture’s potential to fight climate change and achieve a greener Europe.
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Today the European Commission released a new strategy focused on achieving good soil health by 2030. Soil conservation is at the heart of many farmers work and initiatives, regardless of the production methods; conventional or organic. At European level, a large set of EU policies are already directly and indirectly affecting soil health and are addressing the hazards associated with this highly precious natural resource.
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Some of the largest companies in the world launched a shared initiative to reach the climate goals through ground-breaking technology. Fertilizer manufacturer Yara International is one of them.
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2020 marked another improvement in the EU's leading position among the world's biggest exporters of agri-food products. On the import side, the EU has become the third largest importer after the United States and China, according to a report published today.
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Today, the European Commission adopted the New EU Forest Strategy for 2030, a flagship initiative of the European Green Deal that builds on the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030.
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The provisional political agreement reached today by the European Parliament and Council on the new Common Agricultural Policy introduces a fairer, greener, more animal friendly and flexible CAP. Higher environmental and climate ambitions, aligned with Green Deal objectives, are to be implemented from January 2023. The new CAP will also ensure a fairer distribution of CAP support, especially to small and medium-sized family farms and young farmers.
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Co-legislators reached today a provisional agreement on the three new core regulations which will shape the reformed Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) for the period 2023-2029. CEJA congratulates the legislators for their efforts in reaching a deal and welcomes negotiators’ decision to further support young farmers.
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Potatoes are the fourth most important food crop in the world after corn, rice and wheat and play an important role in Europe and worldwide in ensuring food security. Their short cultivation cycle and adaptability to a wide range of climatic conditions have helped potatoes to spread from their South American roots across multiple geographical borders. Today, there are over three thousand potato cultivars distributed far and wide across more than 125 countries, particularly in temperate, subtropical and tropical regions. They are of major economic value on the global agricultural market and their global production exceeds 370 million tonnes of potatoes. Europe is the world’s second major potato-producing region.
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Anyone who spots an unknown plant disease or pest in a garden or neighborhood can now identify and report the pathogen in the new Beware&Note application on the existing website waarnemingen.be. Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), the Experimental Centre for Ornamental Horticulture (PCS) and Natuurpunt Study hope in this way to involve citizens in the protection of our public and private green spaces against alien diseases and pests. These so-called Q-organisms (with the Q from quarantine) are increasingly crossing the borders of the European Union, causing damage to our environment and food production.
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Covid-19: agricultural machinery manufacturers, dealers and contractors welcome the European pandemic response allowing to use transition engines built in 2019
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Northern Ireland Agriculture Minister Edwin Poots has announced more information on the £2 million financial support package for potato growers. The package has been granted in response to the significant reduction in demand from the hospitality and foodservice sector for processing potatoes in the past six months, due to Covid-19 lockdown measures.
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In an effort to increase agricultural productivity and limit waste, a team of researchers from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HU)'s Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment developed a method to detect signs of stress before the plant is damaged.
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The European Commission has published a Commission Staff Working Document summarising the results of an evaluation of the State aid rules for the agriculture and forestry sectors and for rural areas.
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Last week, President Hassan Rouhani inaugurated several agricultural projects worth 81.47 trillion rials (about $1.93 billion) through video conference in various provinces.
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In 2019 the European Green Deal established the ambitious objective of climate neutrality for the EU’s economy, to be reached by 2050. This objective is included in the Commission’s proposal for the first European Climate Law. In 2020 the new EU Climate Target Plan set a target of a 55% GHG reduction by 2030 compared to 1990. Agriculture is responsible for about 10% of total EU GHG emissions and needs to contribute to the EU reduction goals. In addition, the contribution of the agriculture and forest sectors will be essential to reach the climate target because of their unique role as sinks, and therefore their capacity to compensate for the unavoidable GHG emissions of agriculture and other sectors. For these reasons, carbon farming will play a key role in achieving EU’s climate targets.
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On 29 April 2021, the European Commission published a study regarding the status of New Genomic Techniques under Union law.
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Following the Council adoption of Horizon Europe back in March and the European Parliament approval of the 9th Framework Programme for European Research and Innovation - Horizon Europe - has been officially adopted. The programme, which will be implemented through three pillars and a budget of €95.5bn aims to foster a sustainable, fair, and prosperous future, with a targeted budget to tackle climate change, achieving SDG’s whilst boosting the EU’s competitiveness and growth.
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In October 2019, the newly elected European Commission released its Farm to Fork strategy with great fanfare. With a strong focus on the “fork” part of the equation, the Commission proposed ambitious targets in all the major agronomic areas: 50% reduction in plant protection products, 20% less fertiliser, 10% of agricultural area devoted to non-productive uses, 25% organic[1].
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Water availability and thoughtful use of available water are becoming an increasing priority for agricultural and horticulturalists. In times of drought and water scarcity, irrigating crops with rain and groundwater is no longer a given. Therefore the partners in the VLAIO project Irrigation 2.0 are developing the online viewer WaterRadar. This tool integrates water demand and supply and thus promotes sustainable and circular water use.
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Available data shows us that an increased occurrence and intensity of disasters is the new normal.
Within the first few months of 2020, huge swarms of desert locusts began ravaging countries across the Greater Horn of Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and Southwest Asia - just one more hit to farmers already impacted by floods, cyclones, hailstorms, animal diseases, droughts, and other shocks.
By its end, the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season produced 30 named systems, far surpassing the usual 12-storm annual average.
Meanwhile, the COVID-19 pandemic has been devastating lives, livelihoods, and economies the world over.
Agriculture and the billions of farmers who keep the rest of us fed bear the brunt of such shocks - more than any other productive sector. Disasters take lives, but also devastate rural livelihoods, destroy food, and drive up hunger.
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On top of a decade of exacerbated disaster loss, exceptional global heat, retreating ice and rising sea levels, humanity and our food security face a range of new and unprecedented hazards, such as megafires, extreme weather events, desert locust swarms of magnitudes previously unseen, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Agriculture underpins the livelihoods of over 2.5 billion people – most of them in low-income developing countries – and remains a key driver of development. At no other point in history has agriculture been faced with such an array of familiar and unfamiliar risks, interacting in a hyperconnected world and a precipitously changing landscape.
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Today, the Commission presented an Action Plan for the development of organic production. Its overall aim is to boost the production and consumption of organic products, to reach 25% of agricultural land under organic farming by 2030, as well as to increase organic aquaculture significantly.
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Copa and Cogeca take note that agriculture will not be part of the first set of economic activities that will be covered under the re-drafted Taxonomy delegated act as discussed yesterday by the Member States Expert Group on Sustainable Finance. European farmers and agri-cooperatives welcome this postponement as the only way to ensure consistency with the ongoing discussion of the future CAP.
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In February, the executive Vice-President and Commissioner for Trade, Valdis Dombrovskis presented a communication of fundamental importance for the EU farming sector; the EU trade policy review.
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Food and food packaging are highly unlikely to spread COVID-19, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in a reminder last week.
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Fears over supermarket shortages during the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic led many people to buy their food from local producers, raising the prospect of a transformation in the way people get their food in the future. But while eating locally and shorter supply chains are often viewed as a more sustainable alternative to our global food system, the reality is much more complicated, explains Dr Tessa Avermaete, a bioeconomist at the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven in Belgium.
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At the Agricultural Council meeting of 25 January 2021, Commissioner Wojciechowski presented the results of a study on the expected economic effects by 2030 of ongoing and upcoming trade negotiations on the EU agricultural sector.
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The EU trade agenda is set to have an overall positive impact on the EU economy and the agri-food sector, according to a new study published today. Trade agreements are due to result in substantial increases in EU agri-food exports, with more limited increases in imports, creating a positive trade balance overall. The study also confirms that the EU's approach to grant a limited amount of lower duty imports (through tariff rate quotas) is the best approach in terms of protecting specific vulnerable agri-food sectors in the EU
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With the data offered by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food on the crop, the 2020 potato campaign in Spain can be considered closed with two sets of conflicting data.
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The Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), QU Dongyu, launched the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables 2021 (IYFV) with an appeal to improve healthy and sustainable food production through innovation and technology and to reduce food loss and waste.
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The European Commission has approved two Belgian measures, for a total of €23 million, to support the production of products relevant to the coronavirus outbreak in the Walloon region.
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Today, the Commission published recommendations for each Member State to assist in the drafting of their Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) strategic plans, accompanied by a Communication. These recommendations are part of the dialogue between the Commission and Member States to support them in implementing the CAP as of 2023 as well as to ensure that their CAP strategic plans contribute in an ambitious way to the European Green Deal.
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European agri-food associations urge the Commission to adjust the 2021 Annual Work Programme with a less dogmatic approach to make efficient use of its promotion budget for sustainable agri-food goods
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The European Commission has prolonged for two years the validity of several EU State aid rules applicable in the agricultural, forestry and fisheries sectors, which would otherwise expire at the end of 2020.
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“We are the first to examine the prospective impacts of the Strategies in their current form.”. This is how, a few weeks ago, the US Department of Agriculture presented the first impact assessment on the Farm to Fork and Biodiversity Strategies. Two key milestone elements of the Green Deal package that were released in May.
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La Commission se félicite de l'accord politique obtenu vendredi entre le Parlement européen et les États membres de l'UE au sein du Conseil sur les règles de la politique agricole commune (PAC) pour la période de transition 2021-2022.
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Today, the Commission launched GIview, a new search database for all geographical indications (GIs) protected at European Union level.
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Copa and Cogeca Presidents underline the importance of EU action and strong Common Agricultural Policy to stabilize markets and assist farmers during uncertain times
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In view of the current global economic climate and the many uncertainties surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, the organisers of SIMA have taken the decision to hold the next edition of SIMA in November 2022 (from Sunday 6 to Thursday 10 November 2022).
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The Belgian potato trade organisation was founded in 1947 as a recognised professional association. 73 years later, following the Law on Associations and Companies that abolished recognised professional associations, Belgapom’s general assembly decided to continue life as a non-profit organisation.
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The European Parliament, followed by the European Council, decided today to go forward and continue working on the key policy for our farming community, the CAP – EU’s Common Agriculture Policy.
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Commissioner for Crisis Management, Janez Lenar, and Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen, have issued a statement to mark World Food Day 2020:
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With the harvest season underway, the impact of summer's drought-like conditions is being unearthed in New Brunswick. Due to a lack of rainfall during the growing season, potato farmers say their yields are down significantly for fall 2020.
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Facing growing uncertainties with Brexit, the COVID-19 crisis and the effects of climate change, having a swift decision on CAP next week is of paramount importance. Farmers and their cooperatives are looking up to EU policy makers to set clarity on what they should expect in the next CAP. Considering the current socio-economic situation, it is a necessity, not a luxury! Together with 76% of EU citizens, Copa-Cogeca believe that CAP benefits all citizens, not only farmers[1].
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The Women’s Committee of Copa-Cogeca published today, on the occasion of the UN’s 13th Rural Women’s Day, a reflection on the European Commission Communication on the Gender Equality Strategy, outlining the ways in which gender equality within the agricultural sector can be better supported, also highlighting key measures and opportunities to better promote gender equality within European policies.
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Three out of four Europeans are aware of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and consider all citizens benefit from it, according to the latest EU-wide Eurobarometer survey of public opinion about agriculture and the CAP, published today by the European Commission.
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Following yesterday’s vote in the European Parliament’s Plenary Session on the report of MEP Jytte Guteland on the EU Climate Law, Copa and Cogeca welcome European Parliament support for establishing a carbon-crediting scheme for farming, with the aim to boost agricultural lands’ carbon sequestration potential and increase agricultural incomes via a market-based approach.
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The United States and Europe share a great history, a history that goes back centuries and will continue for centuries to come.
This shared history has seen the advent of new technologies that have transformed life and bettered the human condition.
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The Charter
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Last week, the North-western European Potato Growers (NEPG) association announced their harvest estimate for the 2020/2021 season.
They reckon potato yields will be between 27 and 27,3 million tons. That's for the five most important potato-growing countries in North-western Europe.
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CEJA President Jannes Maes addressed today EU agriculture Ministers during the informal AGRIFISH meeting in Koblenz (Germany) on the subjects of food chain resilience, labelling and animal welfare. At a time when the COVID-19 crisis together with investment gap created in the agriculture sector and other systemic difficulties put significant pressure on the shoulders of young farmers, already faced with high risks, Mr Maes underlined the necessity to build up further resilience.
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The political start of the second semester 2020 was eagerly awaited by the entire European farming community. Many essential issues were put on the agenda of the German Presidency Informal Council on Agriculture held in Koblenz, in a context made uncertain by the evolution of the Covid pandemic. Copa and Cogeca Presidents Joachim Rukwied and Ramon Armengol took the floor to ask the ministers present to take into account the lessons learned from the first wave of the crisis, particularly in the context of the upcoming discussions on the CAP and the Green Deal.
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State aid: to support farmers breeding large and small ruminants and potato growers affected by coronavirus outbreak
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The EU-Vietnam trade agreement, the most comprehensive trade agreement the EU has concluded with a developing country, will apply as of tomorrow, 1 August.
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On 25 July 2018 the European Court of Justice (ECJ) published its ruling on mutagenesis breeding including targeted genome editing techniques. This ruling put new forms of mutagenesis breeding under the strict rules and requirements for GMOs and with that factually made the tools unavailable for European plant breeding and agriculture.
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CEJA welcomes the reaching of a deal on the 2021-2027 Multi-annual Financial Framework (MFF) and the Next Generation EU recovery instrument.
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The fight against the global COVID-19 pandemic is causing unprecedented uncertainties in global food supply chains, with potential bottlenecks in labour markets, input industries, agriculture production, food processing, transport and logistics, as well as shifts in demand for food and food services. In the short term, the economic and social impacts of the pandemic interrupt the generally positive medium-term outlook for global agricultural production and food consumption. Governments face the challenge to create balanced policies that address immediate needs, such as labour shortages and create durable conditions for the agricultural sector to ‘build back better,' according to a new report presented today by OECD Secretary-General Angel Gurría and UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Director-General QU Dongyu.
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CEJA’s online working group which took place yesterday (13th July 2020) led to the approval of the organisation’s position paper on the Farm to Fork Strategy to make the voice of Europe’s next generation of farmers heard in upcoming political debates. In the morning, CEJA members got the opportunity to meet online with Agriculture Commissioner Janusz Wojciechowski. Young farmers from all over Europe shared with Commissioner Wojciechowski their concerns on the lack of generational renewal in the sector and their needs for more targeted policies.
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The Commission adopted today an additional package of exceptional measures to support the wine sector, following the coronavirus crisis and its consequences on the sector. The wine sector is among the hardest hit agri-food sectors, due to rapid changes in demand and the closure of restaurants and bars across the EU, which was not compensated by home consumption.
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New DLG Feldtage Digital robot webinar explored mechanical weeding as alternative to herbicide: Field requirements, monitoring, wear parts, solar power and remote service. Webinar attended by 450 international participants
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This annual report monitors and evaluates agricultural policies spanning all six continents, including the 37 OECD countries, the five non-OECD EU Member States, and 12 emerging economies.
It is a unique source of up-to date estimates of support to agriculture using a comprehensive system of measuring and classifying support to agriculture – the Producer and Consumer Support Estimates (PSEs and CSEs), the General Services Support Estimate (GSSE) and related indicators – which provide insight into the increasingly complex nature of agricultural policy and serve as a basis for OECD’s agricultural policy monitoring and evaluation.
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The assessment of Member States' first programmes of measures to control air emissions finds that the implementation of the new European clean air rules needs improvement.
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Copa and Cogeca together with other Flower & Live Plants sector representatives met the European Commission to show concrete data, collected from their member organisations across the EU, on the dramatic impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the sector .
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Statistics on sales of pesticides are used as an indicator of pesticide consumption in agriculture.
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Do hens and their meat or eggs benefit from adding algae to their feed? Although the ValgOrize project focuses on on sustainably and qualitatively produced tasty algae for human consumption, researchers from Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO) are also looking at how the residual flows from algae production can be valorized in chicken feed as part of a zero-waste approach. The application seems promising; not only do many algae species have a high protein content, they can also be beneficial for the fatty acid and amino acid composition of the eggs, and can even influence the color of the yolk. "But the amino acid and fatty acid composition, the digestibility of the feed and the taste of the end product, among other things, are all things we should certainly study before we introduce this as standard practice," says Johan De Boever, feed evaluation expert at ILVO. "We do this with the residual products from the ValgOrize food-related studies.
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Corteva Agriscience announced today its 10-year commitments to advance sustainability throughout the global food system. The goals span a wide range of initiatives for farmers, the land, communities where employees and customers live and work, and in its own operations. Improvements in soil health, on-farm productivity, climate action, water stewardship, biodiversity, supply chain transparency and worker safety, among others, are included.
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The European Commission has approved a €12 million Italian scheme to support companies active in the agricultural sector affected by the coronavirus outbreak.
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The poultry sector, as the rest of the economy, is going through difficult times facing the aftermath of the COVID pandemic. This crisis was not caused by European agriculture, but it is our responsibility to maintain the investments already made and ensure our capacity to keep on following the EU standards of production.
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Europe’s young farmers have been engaged for a stronger European Union, able to face crises with resilience and solidarity, and to show the path to the next generations. Following today’s proposals for a Recovery Fund and revamped long-term budget, CEJA stands together with the Commission and the Parliament to step up the ambition of our Union.
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Looking at the Union’s revised Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2021-2027 and the Next Generation EU Recovery Programme published today, Copa and Cogeca stress the need for more joint action at Union level and call for more support to agriculture under the Common Agriculture Policy (CAP).
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The European Landowners’ Organization welcomes the EU Green Deal and supports its broad objectives. Landowners and managers throughout Europe are already offering much to rural resource management and they recognise that more is required of them.
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Today, the European Commission presented two highly ambitious strategies. Their success will depend on the actors on the ground: farmers, forest owners and their cooperatives. A comprehensive independent inception impact assessment must be conducted before any legislative action is taken. European farmers, forest owners and their cooperatives need alternatives to enable them to reach the ambitious targets without destroying their livelihoods and the European rural economy. A blindfolded approach will jeopardise food security, European agricultural competitiveness and farming income, which have already been heavily impacted by the COVID-19 crisis.
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While acknowledging the value of a Farm to Fork and Biodiversity Strategy, CEJA feels today’s publications have failed to propose a long-term vision by understating the role of farmers and new generations in the future of our food systems.
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The European Commission is working on the Strategy that will outline the EU’s position on the global negotiations and put forward EU commitments to address the causes of biodiversity loss by 2030. However, the approach currently under consideration is a justified cause for concern for all European farmers, forest owners and their cooperatives. This is because the current draft of the Strategy fails to build on some of its main premises:
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The European Commission today launched a public consultation on the European Union’s promotion policy for agricultural and food products.
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The Commission published today the latest package of exceptional measures to further support the agricultural and food sectors most affected by the coronavirus crisis.
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The European Commission has approved a €4 million Belgian direct grant scheme for the Brussels-Capital region to support coronavirus related research and development (R&D) projects in the Brussels-Capital region.
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The European Union, together with 21 other Members of the World Trade Organization (WTO), today committed to open and predictable trade in agricultural and food products during the current global health crisis. $
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CEJA welcomes the announcement made by the European Commission today on the unlocking of market measures to help the agricultural sector cope with the COVID-19 effects but expresses reserves on actual results it will demonstrate amid a crisis of unprecedented dimension.
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The Commission is taking swift action and proposes additional exceptional measures to further support agricultural and food markets most affected.
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The European Commission has approved a €100 million Italian State aid scheme to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the agricultural, forestry, fishery and aquaculture sectors in the context of the coronavirus outbreak.
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Agri-food and drink products whose names are protected by the European Union as “Geographical Indications” (GIs) represent a sales value of nearly €75 billion, according to a study published today by the European Commission.
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The outbreak and spread of COVID-19 and the subsequent measures implemented by governments to contain it have resulted in an abrupt closure of the majority of the continent’s food services. This in turn has had a marked effect on the suppliers of these services across the agricultural sector. Copa and Cogeca have gathered data from their members showing the impact that the COVID-19 crisis has on the dairy, beef, sheep and goat sector. Based on this information, several letters have been sent to the European Commission calling for specific measures to be put in place and to be financed outside the CAP budget.
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Today, the Commission published the budget for the EU school scheme for the 2020/2021 school year: €145 million is allocated to the distribution of fruit and vegetables and €105 million for the distribution of milk and dairy products to schoolchildren.
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CE presents practical guidance to ensure the free movement of critical workers and on the implementation of the temporary restriction on non-essential travel to the EU
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Following the outbreak of coronavirus, the European Union's agri-food sector is showing its resilience and continues to provide Europeans with high quality and safe food. Nonetheless, farmers and producers are facing difficulties and increasing pressure. Ensuring food security and an effective food supply chain across the continent remains one of the Commission's priorities.
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The European Commission announces two Director-Generals for the departments of Agriculture and Rural Development, and Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs
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The increase in world potato production stalled in 2018 and failed to recover significantly in 2019. World output slipped by 1.5% to 368.247 million tonnes in 2018 figures just released by the UN Food & Agriculture Organisation show. However, that was still the third highest total ever after 2017 and 2014.
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Copa and Cogeca welcome the new European Circular Economy Action Plan published today, as it recognises the potential of circular bioeconomy and of the implementation of the EU’s Bioeconomy Strategy in enabling greater circularity.
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The private storage aid scheme for olive oil adopted in November 2019 was concluded today, with the last tendering procedure.
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Producers Organisations (POs) and Association of producers Organisations (APOs) key role in helping strengthen farmers’ position in the food supply chain has once again been confirmed, as well the importance of the technical assistance they provide to their members
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Faced by a market situation deemed to be critical, the European honey producers and Copa-Cogeca members are launching an appeal from Brussels to the European authorities today in order get a strong and rapid response.
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The second forecasts of the economic accounts for agriculture confirm an improvement in 2019. The sector’s gross value added would therefore once again pass the 2 billion mark (2.28 billion compared to 1.96 in 2018). The significant differences with the previous estimate concern cereals, industrial crops and fruit.
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Advanced smart technologies and their data play a vital role in ensuring sustainable production in today’s agricultural systems. The agricultural machinery industry understands its role as a major producer of agronomic data, and how digital agriculture can lead to a modernisation of the sector in Europe.
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EU farm income is still significantly below the average income of the economy, despite this gap decreasing as a result of structural change driven by the outflow of labour from agriculture during the last decade.
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The fact that the reality of being a farmer has been very difficult for a number of years now is no secret. For example, there is a systematic shortfall between milk production costs and producer prices. Over a five-year period, the cost shortfall for German producers has been 20 percent, which implies that production costs to the tune of 9 cents per kilogramme of milk are coming out of farmers' pockets. The situation with organic milk is quite similar, with a shortfall of 21 percent in 2018/2019.
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Commission consults stakeholders on prolongation of EU State aid rules applicable to the agriculture, forestry, fishery and aquaculture sectors
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Stella Kyriakides, Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, and Janusz Wojciechowski, Commissioner in charge of Agriculture, will be attending the International Green Week in Berlin on 16-17 January.
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The expected showdown about the EU’s post-2020 Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and the development of the bloc’s new food strategy could set a cornerstone in the process of shaping Europe’s agriculture in the decades to come.
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This outlook report aims to serve as a baseline for policy and market analysis and evaluation. It is based on the existing policy framework and on expected macroeconomic trends.Under these assumptions, despite labour outflow(i.e. more workers leaving the agricultural sector than entering it), agriculture remains a key part of the fabric of the EU’s rural communities and the primary use of land. Due to competition fromother uses, to tal agricultural land use in the EU is expected to continue to decline, though at a slower pacethan in the past decade, to 178 million ha by 2030. Already high on average, EU yields will grow more slowly than in the past. Advances in seed selection, management and technology will improve farmers’ ability to integrate environmental policy requirements into production systems. Most of the EU’s produce will still be consumed domestically. Consumers in the EU and abroad will become more demanding about the food they consume, increasingly opting for local, organic or other certified products and shifting between food categories. With growing global demand and shifts in global trade flows, the EU will have opportunities to gain market shares in some export markets (e.g.dairy products) while facing increased competition in others (e.g. cereals).
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The Green Deal presented by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday (11 December) avoided two controversial agricultural issues: genetic engineering and pesticide limits. EURACTIV Germany reports.
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TODAY, over 50 farmers from Central and Eastern Europe protested outside the meeting of EU leaders, calling on them to deliver on their promises to equalise payments across the European Union under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
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Today’s Green Deal presentation by Commissioner Frans Timmermans highlighted the key role that the European farming community will have to play in realising the Commission’s new vision.
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Seed@Bel was baptized in April 2019. This Belgian association is the fruit of a super cross between two parents with a long tradition and an excellent reputation in the Belgian seed sector.
The father, ASSINSEL, represented the plant breeders. The mother, SEMZABEL, represented the seed traders.
Kristiaan Van Laecke, Head of the Plant Sciences Unit of Flanders Research Institute for ,Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO) andnSecretary-General of the new association,
shares his views on Belgian agriculture, the Belgian seed business and what this merger means for the future of the Belgian seed trade.
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The European Commission and the European Investment Bank announced today that ECBF Management GmbH has been selected as an investment advisor for the European Circular Bioeconomy Fund.
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Plant breeding innovation is essential to contribute to a sustainable agriculture production that fosters food security and healthy nutrition. This is one of the key messages by the High-level Conference on Plant Breeding Innovation “Growing the Future Together” held by Copa-Cogeca and Euroseeds in Brussels this morning.
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The European Commission will allocate €200.9 million in 2020 to fund promotion activities for EU agri-food products at home and abroad.
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Today, the EU and China concluded the negotiations on a bilateral agreement to protect 100 European Geographical Indications (GI) in China and 100 Chinese GI in the EU against imitations and usurpation. This landmark agreement is expected to result in reciprocal trade benefits and demand for high-quality products on both sides.
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British potatoes have been delisted from a number of lines in Poland’s largest supermarket due to fears of a no-deal Brexit, according to a large UK potato exporter, which has had to cancel orders with its growers as a result.
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The latest monthly agri-food trade report published today shows that the EU agri-food trade surplus in August 2019 stood at €2.93 billion, a 29% increase in the positive trade balance compared to last year's figures for the same period.
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On-board slurry analysis takes a step forward with a new system that uses nuclear magnetic resonance technology to determine nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium contents. This enables new levels of accuracy in slurry applications and the recording of application areas.
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Trends in seeding and cultivation technology aim to address these goals: the conservation of soil moisture; the improvement of nutrient availability; and simplified machine operation via digital-electronic aids.
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Today, the Commission has adopted its first ever proposal on fishing opportunities covering both the Mediterranean and the Black Seas.
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The FAO Food Price Index* (FFPI) averaged nearly 170 points in September 2019, unchanged from August but 3.3 percent higher than in the corresponding period last year. While in September sugar prices fell sharply, the decline was almost entirely offset by higher prices of vegetable oils and meat. The Dairy index was down only marginally, whereas that of cereals remained steady.
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The European Commission welcomes the support expressed today by the Council to allow the European Union to join the Geneva Act of the Lisbon Agreement, a multilateral treaty for the protection of geographical indications managed by the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO).
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Last week Copa and Cogeca's Working Party on Fruit and Vegetables elected as Chair and Vice Chair, Mr L. Vanoirbeek from BB, Belgium and Mr Sergio Tondini from Alleanza delle Cooperative Italiane Agroalimentare, Italy.
Together they will be in charge of leading the works of the group in the times when fruit and vegetable sector is facing a high level of competition and requires constant innovation and investments to adapt to consumer demand and to remain economically, socially and environmentally sustainable. The sector needs to overcome significant challenges, including the imbalances of the food chain and increased competition on the internal EU market.
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The DLG (German Agricultural Society), organiser of Agritechnica, today announced the winners of the Agritechnica Innovation Awards. Overall, the DLG Innovations Jury recognised one innovation with the Agritechnica Gold Innovation Award 2019, and 39 innovations with the Agritechnica Silver Innovation Award 2019. The full list of awards follows:
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Few days before the Informal Meeting of Ministers for Agriculture taking place in Helsinki next week, Copa and Cogeca presents a new position paper on climate action, showcasing concreate actions and political options that should allow EU farmers and cooperatives to remain front runners in the fight against climate change.
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A more sustainable, competitive and modern agriculture in Europe will certainly call for increasing the use of precision farming technologies. Reducing the application of inputs, improving knowledge on soil quality or facilitating day-to-day farm data management are some of the operations that can be improved by adopting smart technologies in agriculture.
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On 11th September, the EU’s Trade Defence Instruments Committee will examine the Commission’s proposal enforcing definitive anti-dumping measures on imports of UAN fertilisers[1] originating from Russia, Trinidad and Tobago and the USA. What might at first seem like a dry, technical decision sounds like a potential new hard blow to many farmers across Europe. Such an approval could impact our competitiveness and our livelihood.
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In a report published today, the EU confirms for yet another year its position as largest global exporter of agri-food products, with EU exports reaching €138 billion in 2018.
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Climate change affects agriculture in a number of ways. Changes in temperature and precipitation as well as weather and climate extremes are already influencing crop yields and livestock productivity in Europe. Weather and climate conditions also affect the availability of water needed for irrigation, livestock watering practices, processing of agricultural products, and transport and storage conditions. Climate change is projected to reduce crop productivity in parts of southern Europe and to improve the conditions for growing crops in northern Europe. Although northern regions may experience longer growing seasons and more suitable crop conditions in future, the number of extreme events negatively affecting agriculture in Europe is projected to increase.
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At the upcoming Potato Europe in Kain, Belgium, agricultural machinery manufacturer AVR is presenting its new quick-change digging unit. As of 2020, this option will be available on all 2-row trailed AVR harvesters.
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Member States today agreed to a series of support measures proposed by the Commissionto ease the financial difficulties faced by farmers due to adverse weather conditions, and increase the availability of feed for animals.
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De Ruiter and Seminis seed brands discuss sustainable and tailored solutions / Industry collaborators demonstrate new advances in digital automation technology
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Commissioner for International Cooperation and Development Neven Mimica is in Kigali, Rwanda, to speak at the Africa Food Security Leadership Dialogue.
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UK consumers may face a home-grown potatoes shortage next year as stocks run out due to new storage rules.
Experts fear a 12-week gap could open up in the UK supply in 2020 as a result of the loss of the main chemical used on stored spuds.
But Suffolk farmers could play a critical role in helping to solve the problem, as an advice group for growers tries to work out potential solutions which can be used on-farm.
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The latest monthly agri-food trade report published today shows that a strong increase in exports observed from the beginning of the year continues.
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Copa and Cogeca congratulates Mr David Sassoli for his election as President of the European Parliament and welcome the increase in the number of seats in the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee (from 46 in previous legislative term to 48 seats).
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The latest agricultural short-term outlook report published today by the European Commission shows in its main findings that EU exports of pork, beef, olive oil and dairy products are expected to continue increasing in 2019 with overall EU agricultural production also on the rise.
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The latest monthly agri-food trade report published today shows that the monthly value of EU agri-food exports in April 2019 reached €12.6 billion, 12.5% above the value registered one year ago in April 2018.
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European agri. and forest cooperatives call in an event today for the support of the EU to foster their development as their model and value creation play a pivotal role in a faster uptake of bioeconomy in Europe’s rural areas.
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At the last tender sale, the remaining 162 tonnes of skimmed milk powder out of a total, original amount of 380,000 tonnes in public stocks were sold, fully emptying as a result the total stocks bought and managed by the Commission.
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Reduction of veterinary antibiotic sales by 63 % in the Netherlands from 2009 to 2017 showed no evidence of a negative effect on average production and economic results on broiler and pig farms. Also the international cost competitiveness of Dutch broiler and pig farms was not hampered by the reduction in antibiotic usage. This is evident from a study by Wageningen Economic Research at the request of the ministry of agriculture, nature and food quality.
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The Commission shared today with Member States the successful outcome of the negotiations to review the functioning of an existing quota to import hormone-free beef into the EU.
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The European Commission's report released today confirms the continuous rise in barriers encountered by European companies in foreign markets. Thanks to the EU's firm response, 123 such barriers have been eliminated since the beginning of the current Commission mandate, allowing for more than €6 billion extra exports in 2018.
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The European Commission will provide €120 million to the EU's beekeeping sector over the next three years to support its essential role in agriculture and the environment. This represents an increase of €12 million compared to the support provided for the period from 2017 to 2019.
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Roughage, such as grass and silage maize, is the main source of feed protein, representing 45% of EU total feed use. Oilseed meals supply almost a quarter of the feed proteins. While the EU is fully self-sufficient in roughage, the EU produces only 26% of what it consumes for meals from soya bean and rapeseed. Looking at the total EU use, about 80% of the feed is from EU origin. These are among the key findings of the ‘EU Feed Protein Balance Sheet’ for 2017/18, published today by the European Commission.
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On 6 June 2019 FEFAC celebrated its 60th Anniversary, with the theme “Resource Efficiency Champions of the Food Chain”. The event featured a key note speech[1] by European Commissioner for Agriculture & Rural Development Phil Hogan and panel sessions on the challenges for the agricultural and livestock sector linked to sustainability and societal expectations.
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The last potatoes were planted at the end of April at PotatoEurope’s demo site and until the end of May the participation demands continued to come in … so now, time for an update! With more exhibitors, more space and more demo machines this year it looks like PotatoEurope 2019 is once again going to be a big hit. The ultimate potato event of the year takes place on 4 and 5 September 2019 in Kain, near Tournai (B).
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Innovation and technologies make agriculture more productive and sustainable / NemaStrike™ Technology helps corn, soybean, and cotton farmers protect their yield / Bayer expands biological seed treatment portfolio with JumpStart™ and ProStablish™
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CEJA President Jannes Maes addressed the informal meeting of agriculture ministers in Bucharest, Romania, today on the subject of research in agriculture and the bioeconomy.
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It is possible to see a glass as being either half full or half empty. This saying applies well to the outcome of these 2019 elections. While we can rejoice in the fact that 2019 finally brought about a record turnout, we can still regret that 1 out of 2 Europeans decided not to vote. Although this election has created a more plural European Parliament, it will also be a more fragmented one.
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Milk has nourished humankind since the dawn of time and has allowed our advanced civilisations to progress. Milk is pure and untouched, and it is now impossible to imagine life without it. Milk is a nutritive mix of proteins, fatty acids and lactose, together with folic acid and a number of vitamins and minerals. In fact, milk is one of life’s simple pleasures.
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Having banned unfair trading practices and improved producer cooperation, the Commission is today presenting the third element to improve fairness in the food supply chain by introducing greater transparency in the way prices are reported throughout the chain.
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The European Commission published today its latest ‘EU Feed Protein Balance Sheet', which provides a comprehensive overview of EU feed supply.
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The Short-term outlook is based on reflections of market experts within the Directorate General for Agriculture and Rural Development of the European Commission, using the latest data available. It is published three times per year (in late winter, early summer and early autumn).
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Researchers from Australia, Germany, Switzerland and the United States have quantified the effect of climate extremes, such as droughts or heatwaves, on the yield variability of staple crops around the world.
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Three weeks ahead of the crucial European elections, EU farmers and agri-cooperatives, represented by Copa and Cogeca, are launching their manifesto entitled WeFarm4EU, encouraging the whole European farming community to raise their profile and to vote. In a tense European and international political climate, agriculture is a solution to many key social, political, environmental and economic challenges. For the Brussels-based organisations, Copa and Cogeca, a strong Europe cannot move forward without strong agriculture.
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• EIB loans, channelled through partner banks, will mobilize close to EUR 2 billion of financing for agriculture and the bioeconomy
• At least 10% of EUR 1 billion loans package will be dedicated to young farmers
• Results of fi-compass survey of 7,600 farmers in 24 EU countries confirm need to step up access to finance for farmers
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Commissioner for agriculture Phil Hogan will open tomorrow morning 25 April the “Our Forests, Our Future” conference which will celebrate forests for their role in combating climate change.
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Following its launch on 23rd April 2018, the EU Code of Conduct on Agricultural Data Sharing has received the support of two additional international federations: Centre de Liaison International des Marchands de Machines Agricoles et des Reperateurs (CLIMMAR) and AnimalhealthEurope.
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New figures released by the European Commission today, show that imports of U.S. soya beans by the European Union increased by 121% over the current market year (July 2018 to mid-April 2019), compared to the same period in the previous year.
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Tests of Europe’s rivers and canals have revealed more than 100 pesticides – including 24 that are not licensed for use in the EU.
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The value of EU agri-food exports in January 2019 increased for the 4th year in a row to reach a new record level of €11.2 billion, as shown in the latest monthly agri-food trade report published today.
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While the Withdrawal Agreement negotiated between the EU and the UK remains the best possible outcome, the EU is prepared for a possible “no-deal” scenario in the area of agriculture. The EU remains focused on protecting the agriculture and farming interests of EU citizens.
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Biodiversity is the variety of life at genetic, species and ecosystem levels. Biodiversity for food and agriculture (BFA) is, in turn, the subset of biodiversity that contributes in one way or another to agriculture and food production. It includes the domesticated plants and animals raised in crop, livestock, forest and aquaculture systems, harvested forest and aquatic species, the wild relatives of domesticated species, other wild species harvested for food and other products, and what is known as “associated biodiversity”, the vast range of organisms that live in and around food and agricultural production systems, sustaining them and contributing to their output. Agriculture is taken here to include crop and livestock production, forestry, fisheries and aquaculture.1
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Commissioner for Agriculture Phil Hogan is in Dublin today where he participates in two citizens' dialogues.
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The European Parliament voted today on a new set of EU rules that will ensure protection of 100% of European farmers as well as small and mid-range suppliers against unfair trading practices in the food supply chain.
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Today Phil Hogan, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development and Mariya Gabriel, Commissioner for Digital Economy and Society, are participating in the conference Digital4Bees in Sofia, Bulgaria to discuss the impact of the digital transformation on beekeeping and agriculture at large. Commissioner Gabriel presented the opportunities digitization brings to beekeeping and how EU regulation and funding exemplifies this trend.
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Agriculture Ministry: “Since the beginning of the export season of agriculture products, Egypt's exports of potatoes increased to 200,000 tons.”
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The Commission today announces an investment programme worth over €10 billion for low-carbon technologies in several sectors to boost their global competitiveness.
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The ceiling for national support to farmers will rise significantly, allowing greater flexibility and efficiency, notably in times of crisis and situations demanding a swift response by the public authorities.
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Almost 1.3 million hectares (ha) of land in the European Union (EU) were covered with fruit trees in 2017. A little over one third of this total was accounted for by apple orchards (473 500 ha, 37%), and another one fifth by orange groves (255 500 ha, 20%).
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European young farmers are calling on MEPs to double the ambition for generational renewal in the agricultural sector. The much-appreciated vocal support given to young farmers in the CAP reform negotiations must be matched through funding and concrete, effective measures at the farm level.
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At Fruit Logistica 2019 in Berlin, Bayer will announce new collaboration agreements with some companies active in the agricultural sector, with research institutes and with the American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), an intergovernmental organization in the Americas.
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After a record-breaking 251 startups from 53 countries applied to be part of The Pearse Lyons Accelerator, the class of 2019 has been selected to work with Alltech and Dogpatch Labs to accelerate their business development. This year’s applicants have already raised over $143 million, with 135 startups disclosing funding.
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The latest successful tender sale of skimmed milk powder public stocks means that 99% of the total stocks bought and managed by the Commission have now been sold.
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Given the continued uncertainty in the UK surrounding the ratification of the Withdrawal Agreement, the Commission has today adopted two legislative proposals to help mitigate the significant impact that a “no-deal” Brexit would have on EU fisheries.
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Commissioners Vytenis Andriukaitis and Phil Hogan, respectively in charge of Health and Food safety and of Agriculture, will both be attending the International Green Week in Berlin which gathers exhibitors from the food, agriculture and gardening sectors on 17-19 January.
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The current calculation of production costs in Germany shows that only 85% of production costs were covered in October 2018. This is a slight improvement of 5% compared to the July figures; in January 2018, cost coverage was still 88%.
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Scientists at The James Hutton Institute have unlocked the genetics of potato skin and flesh colour paving the way for new colourful varieties.
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A total of 80,424.05 tonnes of the skimmed milk powder bought into public stock by the Commission since 2015 were sold in the latest tender sale, bringing the remaining stock to around 22,000 tonnes out of the original 380,000 tonnes, stockpiled since the crisis that hit the dairy sector in 2015.
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The European Commission delists Thailand from the group of "warned countries" as recognition of its progress in tackling illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.
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The Climate Corporation (Climate), a subsidiary of Bayer and the industry leader in bringing digital innovation to farmers, today announced strong harvest results for farmers using Seed Advisor, its new predictive seed selection and placement technology for corn. In addition to Seed Advisor, Climate accelerated 25 innovation advancements in 2018 through its global, digital farming pipeline to provide farmers more data-driven insights to sustainably improve their productivity.
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Imports of U.S. soya beans by the European Union increased by 112% over the current market year (July-December 2018), compared to the same period in the previous year. With a share of 75% of EU soya beans imports, the U.S. remains Europe's number one supplier.
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The aim of the Sugar Market Observatory is to provide the EU sugar sector with more transparency by means of disseminating market data and short-term analysis in a timely manner.
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The European Parliament, the Council and the Commission reached today a political agreement on a new set of rules that will ensure protection of 100% of EU farmers and of a very large majority of EU agri-food companies against practices contrary to good faith and fair dealing.
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Last Friday, Eurostat released its first estimates regarding farmers’ income for 2018. As Copa-Cogeca expected, after a record increase in 2017, real agricultural income has dropped by 3% in comparison with last year. Net entrepreneurial income has also declined by 7%.
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That the potato harvest this year in Europe was well below average due to extreme weather conditions is well known by now. I this article we present some recent data from Great Britain, The Netherlands and Spain that further clarify the situation.
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The EU institutions have found an agreement on new EU rules on fertilisers proposed by the Commission in 2016 as a key deliverable of the Circular Economy Package.
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The Commission published today in the framework of the 2018 EU Agricultural Outlook Conference projections for the European agricultural markets to 2030 for a wide range of agri-food products, including meat, arable crops, milk and dairy products, and fruit and vegetables.
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On November 25th, the endorsement by the European Council of the Withdrawal Agreement is a new step forward an orderly Brexit, further minimising the prospect of a 'no-deal’ scenario which would be catastrophic for both EU and British farming communities. 60% of UK agri-food exports go to the EU. EU-27 exports make up an average total of between 70% and 99% of all UK imports
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Commissioner for International Cooperation and Development Neven Mimica is today in Rome to participate in a Conference organised by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
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Today the European Commission adopted its report on the development of plant proteins in the European Union. The report reviews the supply and demand situation for plant proteins (such as rapeseed, sunflower seeds or lentils) in the EU and explores ways in which to further develop their production in an economically and environmentally sound way.
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CEJA and DeLaval announced a collaborative agreement at EuroTier, the world's leading trade fair for animal production in Hannover, Germany.
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Royal Agrifirm Group is introducing a number of integrated agricultural and feed solutions for agricultural entrepreneurs and feed manufacturers at the EuroTier international trade fair in Hanover, Germany. All these new and recently launched solutions are the result of synergy effects within and between the various divisions of Agrifirm and the company's cooperation with third parties. The solutions comprise of a combination of products, advice, knowledge sharing, and monitoring of results. The objective of this customized cooperation is to deliver demonstrable returns on farms, in fields, and within the industry. Agrifirm has demonstrated that its ‘Better Together’ strategy, launched last year, is flourishing.
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Amid recent alarming reports of the dramatic loss of wildlife and ecosystems worldwide, the European Union is calling for stronger global response to biodiversity concerns at the United Nations Biodiversity Conference 2018.
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The 2019 programmes for the promotion of EU agri-food products will focus primarily on markets outside the EU with the highest potential for growth.
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Half of the skimmed milk powder bought into public stock since 2015 (190,000 out of 380,000 tonnes) has been put back into the market without jeopardising its functioning and the recovery of the sector. The latest tender sale of 30,000 tonnes took place on 8 November.
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The European Union makes 23 new commitments to the Our Ocean 2018 conference. These commitments represent around EUR 300 million and cover all six themes of Our Ocean. In addition, several EU Member States have their own commitments. They add up to the 35 commitments made by the EU in 2017.
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The European Commission has published the first report on the application of competition rules in the agricultural sector. The report shows that the work of European competition authorities can help farmers to obtain better conditions when selling their products to large buyers or cooperatives.
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The European Commission has approved an investment package of €243 million from the EU budget for projects under the LIFE programme supporting nature, the environment and quality of life in Europe's transition to a more sustainable and low-carbon future.
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The latest monthly agri-food trade report published today shows stable EU exports compared with last year's high performance, at a value of €136.6 billion for the 12-months period of September 2017 to August 2018.
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Today, the Commission has adopted a proposal on fishing opportunities in 2019 for the most important commercial fish stocks in the Black Sea. The catch limit and quota for the two species, sprat and turbot, are shared between Bulgaria and Romania.
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The European Commission today adopted the EU-Vietnam trade and investment agreements, paving the way for their signature and conclusion. Through this adoption, the Commission is demonstrating its commitment to putting these agreements in place as soon as possible.
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On October 16th, in a workshop held in the European Parliament, the EU Agri-food chain partners - COPA and COGECA, CELCAA and FoodDrinkEurope - reiterated their support for the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA).
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Marking World Food Day, today Commissioner for International Cooperation and Development, Neven Mimica, is attending events at the Food and Agriculture Organisation in Rome, where he is delivering a speech at a high-level panel session on the challenges faced in achieving zero hunger.
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Following negotiations in the Agriculture and Fisheries Council yesterday, the parties agreed on a balanced package that will ensure sustainable fishing opportunities for 2019 in the Baltic Sea. The negotiations were based on the Commission's proposal.
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The European Commission will provide funding of €172,5 million from the EU agricultural budget to promote EU agri-food products in Europe and across the world.
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Today the Commission has put forward an action plan to develop a sustainable and circular bioeconomy that serves Europe's society, environment and economy.
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The results of the latest milk production cost calculations in six European countries show in objective economic terms – black on white – that daily business for milk producers is grim: Milk production costs and farm-gate prices are moving further apart! Even in so-called 'good years' i.e. between dairy crises, prices are permanently below production costs.
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A UK based company focused on the analysis and interpretation of satellite data - has in collaboration with AHDB Potatoes investigated the effectiveness of using satellite data to map the extent of potato crops in pilot locations across England and Scotland.
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Potato production in the Moscow Oblast in 2018 increased by 37% compared to the volumes of the previous year.
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CEJA President Jannes Maes addressed the informal meeting of agriculture ministers in Schloss Hof, Austria, today on the subject of shaping the future of vital rural areas and quality food production in the European Union.
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Today the European Commission has published the latest figures on EU imports of soya beans, showing that the U.S. has become Europe's main supplier of this commodity, reaching a 52% share compared to 25% in in the same period last year.
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Joined by farming stakeholders, academia, NGOs and industry experts from around the globe, Bayer outlined its vision for the future of agriculture today, reaffirming its commitment to innovation, sustainability and digital transformation to help ensure the world’s rapidly growing population can be fed without starving the planet.
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EU agriculture Commissioner, Phil Hogan signed today in Romania a European Investment Fund (EIF) financing agreement that will channel over €150 million, including €87.8 million from the EU budget, to Romanian farmers.
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In light of the difficulties faced by European farmers affected by drought this summer, the European Commission continues acting to provide practical support to the sector. Additional flexibility will be granted to help farmers provide sufficient feed to their animals.
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With increased numbers of both exhibitors and visitors, the second editions of AGRITECHNICA ASIA and Horti ASIA last week reached a successful conclusion in Thailand. There were nearly 300 exhibitors from 29 countries, an increase of about 25 percent from last year, and 10,677 trade participants and conference delegates from 69 countries, a 30 percent increase.
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It's not just the weather that makes this year's potato crop in Washington promising. Chris Voigt also credited the great care and detailed management by the Washington potato growers for the expected high yields and good quality
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At the 30th International Horticultural Congress (IHC2018), which will take place from August 12 to 16 in Istanbul, Turkey, Bayer introduces its latest innovations and novel approaches for sustainable horticulture production.
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The European Commission is standing by Europe's farmers this summer, as they grapple with the difficulties of extreme droughts.
Farmers will be able to receive their direct and rural development payments in advance and will be granted more flexibility to use land that would normally not be used for production, in order to feed their animals.
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Today the European Commission has published the latest figures on EU imports of soybeans, showing an increase of 283% in imports of soybeans from the U.S., bringing the EU's total share of imports of U.S. soybeans to 37%, up from 9% one year ago.
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Due to the long ongoing drought and heat wave, the potato harvest in Germany and Europe will be significantly reduced in quantity, as well as quality compared to the previous year.
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The European Court of Justice (ECJ) published on 25 July its judgment in case C-528/16, ruling that organisms obtained by directed mutagenesis, ie. those techniques that emerged after the adoption of the EU legislation on GMO are, in principle, subject to obligations of the GMO Directive.
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The INTERPOM PRIMEURS covers all aspects of the potato industry, ranging from potato varieties, sensors, crop protection, large agricultural equipment, potato storage, potato products (Belgian Fries!) and processing and packaging equipment.
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The European Commission decided today to refer Belgium to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) for failing to fully implement the Seasonal Workers Directive (Directive 2014/36/EU).
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The latest monthly agri-food trade report published today shows that EU exports remain strong, with €11.2 billion recorded in May 2018. With imports that same month worth €10 billion, EU trade registered a surplus of €1.2 billion.
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ESA-funded demo project “agriloc” successfully completed – hybrid modem for data transmission also via satellite developed – almost autonomous and absolute position of actuators of mobile machines possible – test methods for both prototypes established
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At the EU-Japan summit in Tokyo, Presidents Jean-Claude Juncker and Donald Tusk, and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, signed today the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA).
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The latest monthly agri-food trade report published today shows that the EU exports remain strong at €11.1 billion in April 2018. This represents an increase of 3.7% compared to April 2017.
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CEMA is pleased to announce that the INNOSETA project (in which CEMA is a participating partner) was recently selected for funding by the European Commission under H2020 (RUR-2016-2017 - Rural Renaissance - Fostering innovation and business opportunities) Call for proposals RUR-1-2017.
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Anthony van der Ley, CEO of LEMKEN GmbH, was elected new President of CEMA (www.cema-agri.org), the trade association representing the producers of agricultural machinery in Europe.
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Today, the Joint Research Centre, the European Commission's science and knowledge service, is publishing a new edition of the World Atlas of Desertification, offering a tool for decision makers to improve local responses to soil loss and land degradation.
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Copa and Cogeca underlined today the importance of having a strong CAP in the future, with a strong budget behind it, to stabilize EU farm incomes and to keep rural areas alive.
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The skimmed milk powder from intervention hangs like the sword of Damocles over a long-lasting stability of the milk market.
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The organizer of the DLG-Feldtage 2018 outdoor exhibition for crop cultivation, the DLG (German Agricultural Society), along with exhibitors, have expressed their satisfaction with the way this year’s event has been carried out, and with the overall result.
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Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) President Dennis Slater issued the following statement today calling on the United States Senate Agriculture Committee to mark up the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, which contains a robust safety net for U.S. farmers and ranchers:
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L'Union européenne a maintenu en 2017 sa place de premier exportateur et importateur mondial de produits agroalimentaires avec 138 milliards d'euros d'exportations et 117 milliards d'euros d'importations. Le rapport annuel 2017 sur le commerce agro-alimentaire de l'UE publié aujourd'hui montre par ailleurs que le secteur agro-alimentaire européen a une grande importance économique puisque la chaîne de production et de transformation alimentaire représente 7,5% de l'emploi total dans l'UE.
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With an agri-food trade value of €255 billion in 2017, the EU confirms for yet another year its position as largest global exporter and importer of agri-food products.
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A priority for new Chairman of Copa and Cogeca’s Biofuel Working Party Alexander Bachler is to boost the share of agriculture and forest biomass in the EU renewable energy mix post 2020, and to have a stable long-term policy for crop-based biofuels,
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The international comparison of winter wheat cultivation methods, which has been an important part of the technical program at the DLG-Feldtage since 1988, will this year feature crop experts from seven countries presenting their strategies for growing the crop. This will once again give visitors the opportunity to get to know a wide variety of cultivation philosophies from different European growing regions, as well as Germany, and to discuss these with the experts involved to reach conclusions that could inform how they cultivate their own wheat crops.
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CEJA provided an initial response to the CAP legislative proposals published by the European Commission today. It welcomes the specific focus on young farmers in the CAP’s objectives, “Attract young farmers and facilitate business development in rural areas”, and the greater emphasis on young farmers’ needs.
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One in ten pollinating insects is on the verge of extinction, and a third of bee and butterfly species is declining. This is why today the Commission is proposing the first-ever EU initiative to address the decline of wild pollinating insects.
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For the next long-term EU budget 2021-2027, the Commission is proposing to increase funding by almost 60% for LIFE, the EU programme for the environment and climate action.
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Reacting to the EU Commission proposal on the Future of Food and Farming, Copa and Cogeca warn against plans to erode farmers’ incomes and call for a real simplification of CAP rules. It is vital to ensure that there is no renationalization of the CAP, and it is backed up by a stronger budget.
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The European Commission today published proposals for regulations modernising and simplifying the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
These proposals are for a regulation on the CAP Strategic Plans (a proposed new way of working covering direct payments to farmers, rural development support and sectoral support programmes), a regulation on the Single Common Market Organisation (CMO) and a horizontal regulation on financing, managing and monitoring the CAP. These proposals give shape to the ideas for the future of the CAP, as outlined in the Communication on the Future of Food and Farming, presented by the Commission in November 2017.
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For the next long-term EU budget 2021-2027, the Commission is proposing to modernise and simplify the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
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Copa and Cogeca re-affirmed in Brussels today their commitment to ensuring a sustainable wine culture, governed by responsible drinking, and renewed its participation in the Wine in Moderation (WiM) programme.
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German farmers are currently faced with a long list of challenges that are impacting on their businesses, according to the president of the DLG (German Agricultural Society), Hubertus Paetow. Addressing agricultural journalists at Neugattersleben, Germany, on 26 April, he said the issues included: resistance to pesticides; approval-related loss of important active ingredients for crop protection; stagnation in breeding progress; loss of biodiversity; problems due to too narrow crop rotations; and new measures aimed at protecting water and soil.
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The DLG International Crop Production Center (IPZ) will host the DLG-Feldtage 2018 field exhibition, which takes place from 12-14 June. The event will occupy about 40 ha of the IPZ area, which is set to welcome some 25,000 visitors from across Europe and the rest of the world.
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As part of its ongoing move to simplify and modernise the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), the European Commission has adopted new rules that will for the first time expressly allow a range of modern technologies to be used when carrying out checks for area-based CAP payments. This includes the possibility to completely replace physical checks on farms with a system of automated checks based on analysis of Earth observation data.
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As part of its ongoing move to simplify and modernise the EU's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), the European Commission has adopted new rules that will for the first time expressly allow a range of modern technologies to be used when carrying out checks for CAP payments.
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Preparations for this year's PotatoEurope exhibition are progressing well, with planting now complete at the event venue, Rittergut Bockerode farm, near Springe-Mittelrode in Lower Saxony (Germany).
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Copa and Cogeca express strong disappointment with the proposed cuts to the budget of the future Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) as part of the EU Commission’s budget plans post 2020.
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Following last year’s successful launch of the Spanish BayG.A.P. online training aimed at supporting farmers in Latin America, Bayer is now also offering an English version, for which participants can register with immediate effect. The virtual self-learning course is free and available worldwide. It will last from May 28 until July 16, 2018. Further training sessions in Portuguese and Spanish are planned for the second half of 2018.
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Today's decision by the Council to adopt the text of the Regulation providing new rules for organic farming clears the final hurdle for the modernisation of the sector and the harmonisation of rules covering organic production both within the European Union and in non-EU countries.
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With world food demand set to rise by 60% by 2050, the European Agri-Cooperative (Cogeca) Presidency Business Forum examined today strategies that agri-cooperatives are creating to overcome the economic and environmental challenges created by climate change.
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Today, the European Commission decided to refer Italy to the Court of Justice of the EU on the grounds that the Italian authorities are not taking the necessary measures to eradicate the quarantine harmful organism Xylella fastidiosa in Apulia and thus have failed to stop its spread.
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Copa and Cogeca support the Polish Chamber of Agriculture (KRIR) press event held in Brussels today on the future EU budget post 2020, expressing deep concern and opposition to the planned cuts in EU agricultural spending.
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Phil Hogan, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, is continuing his series of business offensives to promote EU food and drink products with a trip to Shanghai, China, from 14-17 May.
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The DLG-Feldtage 2018 will have live machinery demonstrations on all three days of the exhibition, with an expanded program on offer this year. Comparative demonstrations will take place on the key topics of crop protection sprayers, mineral fertilizer spreaders, sensor technology for precision farming Seed drills for cereals and steering and data management systems and, new for 2018, mechanical weed control. Many of the demonstrations will have live commentaries, which will mostly be in German.
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The IAMO Forum 2018, "Large-scale agriculture – for profit and society?", will provide insights into the general conditions, perspectives and challenges of large-scale agriculture and will discuss the increasing importance of stakeholder interests. The international conference, held mainly in English, takes place in Halle (Saale), Germany, from 27th to 29th June 2018. The IAMO Forum aims to provide the latest research findings, discussion platforms and exchange opportunities between agricultural practice and science.
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Efficient, alternative and environmentally friendly ways of dealing with farm slurry and digestate will be in the spotlight at the 2018 DLG-Feldtage, which will be held from 12 to 14 June at the DLG’s International Crop Production Centre at Bernburg, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany.
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As German arable farmers deal with the consequences of limited cropping practices, DLG-Feldtage 2018 will provide them with the opportunity to find out how increasing the number of different crops in their rotations could address problems that currently need to be addressed by special management practices and crop protection regimes
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According to a proposal tabled by the EU Commissioner for Budget and Human Resources Günther Oettinger, the agriculture budget is to be cut by five percent. The planned savings under the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2021-2027 were presented in Brussels last week.
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European Commissioner for Agriculture & Rural Development, Phil Hogan, has confirmed that he will agree to UK requests for EU rules on crop diversification to be relaxed following excessive rain that has delayed crop planting.
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The Commission today published a new report on the implementation of the Nitrates Directive.
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Reacting to EU Commission budget plans post 2020 released in Brussels today, Copa and Cogeca express strong disappointment with the proposed cuts to the future Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
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Cropping strategies from agronomists based in seven European countries will be assessed at the renowned DLG-Feldtage, taking place this year at the DLG’s International Crop Production Centre (IPZ) at Bernburg, Saxony-Anhalt, from 12 to 14 June. They will take part in the European Cropping Comparisons, which date back to the first DLG-Feldtage held in 1988.
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Copa and Cogeca welcome European Parliament’s vote today on a report highlighting the multiple benefits of support for EU sheep and goat farmers via the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
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European young farmers today reacted with disappointment to the announcement of the European Commission’s budget proposal for the period 2021-2027.
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The Commission is today proposing a pragmatic, modern, long-term budget for the 2021-2027 period.
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The European Commission has conditionally approved under the EU Merger Regulation the acquisition of parts of Bayer's Crop Science business by BASF. This transaction is related to the Bayer/Monsanto merger divestment commitments.
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Agreements giving greater market access and protection for EU agri-food products in Iceland will enter into force on 1 May.
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Today, a new potato processing plant was officially opened in Lipetsk by Ivan Lebedev, State Secretary and Deputy Minister of Agriculture of the Russian Federation, and by Oleg Korolev, head of the executive branch of the Lipetsk region.
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Copa and Cogeca fully back the EU’s decision to ban meat imports from 20 Brazilian meat plants and call for results from European Parliaments latest mission to Brazil to be urgently examined too.
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Commissioner Karmenu Vella will attend the annual Seafood Exhibition Global in Brussels to meet with businesses and visit Member States' stands promoting the local and regional fisheries industry.
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A coalition of associations from the EU agri-food chain launched a joint EU Code of Conduct on agricultural data sharing in Brussels today. The Code promotes the benefits of sharing data and enables agri-business models, including agri-cooperatives and other agri-businesses, to swiftly move into an era of digitally enhanced farming. The Code sheds greater light on contractual relations and provides guidance on the use of agricultural data, particularly the rights to access and use the data.
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The European Union and Mexico today reached a new agreement on trade, part of a broader, modernised EU-Mexico Global Agreement. Practically all trade in goods between the EU and Mexico will now be duty-free, including in the agricultural sector.
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Commissioner for Agriculture Phil Hogan will today participate in a Citizens' Dialogue on the future of food and farming in Kilkenny, Ireland. Entitled "Making CAP 2020 work for you", the dialogue will focus on the future of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and its implications for Irish farmers. Commissioner Hogan will be joined on stage by Mr. Joe Healy, President of the Irish Farmers' Association.
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Tomorrow, Mariya Gabriel, Commissioner for Digital Economy and Society, will attend the conference
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From yesterday’s general assembly of the European Milk Board (EMB), Erwin Schöpges emerged as the new President of the European umbrella organisation. The 53-year-old dairy farmer from Belgium has actively championed a fair milk policy ever since the EMB was founded.
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Organisations representing potato farmers in Belgium and France, ABS (Algemeen Boerensyndicaat, Flanders), FWA (Walloon Federation of Agriculture) and UNPT (National Union of Potato Producers, France), jointly started Interreg project GEPOS to look for alternative destinations for potatoes in Belgium and the North of France in seasons marked by large surpluses.
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Copa and Cogeca wholeheartedly welcomed today a new financing initiative from the European Investment Bank (EIB) to inject close to 1 billion euros into the agriculture and bio-economy sectors.
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When purchasing pork, consumers are very interested in information about the individual farm where the pigs were kept and they are willing to pay more for this information. These were the findings of research by Wageningen Economic Research that was conducted among consumers in the Netherlands, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Consumers primarily want information on the way in which the pigs are kept.
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The European Investment Bank (EIB), the EU bank, today announced the launch of a new financing initiative that aims to unlock close to EUR 1bn of investment in the agriculture and bioeconomy sector. Bioeconomy encompasses the value chains of production and the processing of food, material and energy using renewable biological resources from land and sea. This large EIB lending programme for agriculture and bioeconomy outlines the Bank’s broader support to this sector. The operation will be guaranteed by the EU budget under the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), which forms a central part of the “Investment Plan for Europe” of the European Commission under the Juncker administration. In a new Regulation applicable from early 2018, the scope of EFSI was extended to include a specific sectorial focus on sustainable agriculture and the wider bioeconomy.
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Questions and Answers
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The Commission is targeting the most damaging unfair trade practices to grant farmers and small and medium sized businesses greater certainty and less need to manage risks over which they have little or no control.
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Today, the European Commission proposed legislation on unfair trading practices in business-to-business relationships in the food supply chain. Right now, supermarkets’ poor practices lead to insecurity among their suppliers, which directly impacts the most vulnerable people in the value chain. The directive aims to protect small and medium-sized food suppliers against abusive practices of large buyers by prohibiting certain trade practices and requiring Member State to enforce this ban.
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Copa and Cogeca highlight benefits of support for Areas facing Natural or other Specific constraints (ANCs) in future Common Agricultural Policy (CAP)
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After New Plant Processing Techniques (NBTs) have been allowed in the USA without restriction, Copa and Cogeca urge the EU to improve Europe’s challenging policy and regulatory framework.
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Ahead of trilogue talks between the EU institutions on the EU’s renewable energy plans, Copa and Cogeca call for a stable long-term policy to maximise the potential of crop-based biofuels to decarbonise the transport sector.
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The Global Report on Food Crises indicates that major risks of famine were averted in 2017 in the four countries that were declared at risk in early 2017: Yemen, Somalia, South Sudan and North Nigeria. However, it also highlights the severity and the complexity of food crises around the world.
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The European Commission has approved under the EU Merger Regulation the acquisition of Monsanto by Bayer. The merger is conditional on the divestiture of an extensive remedy package, which addresses the parties' overlaps in seeds, pesticides and digital agriculture.
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Pork products from Italy, including the renowned Parma ham, are now allowed on the Taiwanese market following joint work by the European Commission and the Italian authorities. The opening of the market is expected to generate sales of Italian pork products of around €2 million.
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Over 30 million children across the EU receive milk, fruit and vegetables under to the EU's School Scheme.
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The Sandals group, with 11 resorts in Jamaica, provides potato farmers with major financial assistance in order to cut its import bill, support the local farming community and to serve their guests with local potatoes...
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Copa and Cogeca expressed serious concerns today about the threat of a trade war escalating with the USA as it could have a severe impact on the agriculture sector in the EU and worldwide.
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Copa and Cogeca expressed serious concerns today about the threat of a trade war escalating with the USA as it could have a severe impact on the agriculture sector in the EU and worldwide.
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Copa welcomed in Brussels today International Women’s Day and underlined the importance of women in the agriculture sector as drivers of innovation.
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This year’s Agritechnica Asia trade fair in Bangkok will include the new Systems & Components Asia exhibition for the first time. Systems & Components, which was introduced at Agritechnica 2013 in Hanover, is a platform where visitors involved in research and development, procurement and purchasing at original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in the off-highway sector can find out about innovations in the fields of engines, hydraulics, axles, gearboxes, cabins, electronics and other components.
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On 8 March, Vytenis Andriukaitis, Commissioner for Health and Food safety will be in Sofia to participate in the multi-country workshop on the ‘Role of the Wildlife in Animal Health Management' organised by the Technical Assistance and Information Exchange Instrument (TAIEX) of the European Commission and the Bulgarian Presidency.
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The European Commission is proposing changes to the rules governing state aid in the agriculture sector, increasing the amount that national authorities can use to support farmers without the need for prior approval.
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At the end of February, the European Commission sold over 4,300 tons of skimmed milk powder at a set minimum price of 110 €/100 kg. This has been the lowest selling price since the beginning of the tendering process and has been met with severe criticism from European milk producers.
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The European Commission proposes to increase the maximum amount of agricultural state aid that Member States can distribute without prior notification from €15,000 to €25,000, over three years, per farm holding.
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The DLG-Feldtage 2018 will take place under the theme "Crop 2030”. The focus is on productivity, innovations and strategies. Exhibitors at the event will present their pioneering developments in processes, technologies and resources that will enable sustainable increases in output from crop production.
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Copa and Cogeca welcomed today calls by European Parliament’s Agriculture Committee to enhance EU sheep and goat support via the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
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In 2017, Bayer’s operational business was at the prior-year level. The company made good progress strategically. “We took major steps toward the proposed acquisition of Monsanto,” Management Board Chairman Werner Baumann said on Wednesday at the Financial News Conference in Leverkusen. Pharmaceuticals achieved another record year in business operations. Sales and earnings declined at both Consumer Health and Crop Science – in the latter case, however, this development was attributable to the difficult situation in Brazil. Animal Health posted an increase in sales and earnings. “We remain focused on our objectives and are convinced of our long-term perspective. We therefore have every reason to look to the future with optimism,” said Baumann.
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A study published in the latest issue of Science illuminates the extent of global fishing – down to single vessel movements and hourly activity – and opens an unprecedented gateway for sustainable ocean management.
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Ahead of EU Ministers debate on the future EU budget on Friday, Copa and Cogeca call for no cuts to the spending of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
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Copa and Cogeca welcome publication by the EU Commission of a Roadmap on the Revision of the Bioeconomy, and underline the importance of the EU agriculture and forestry sectors to maximize it’s potential.
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The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) is one of the best performing policies, but improvements are vital to make it work better, Copa and Cogeca told EU Farm Ministers today.
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The value of EU agri-food exports reached €137.9 billion in 2017, corresponding to a sustained increase by 5.1% in value terms compared to 2016.
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New Holland Agriculture will enable its customers to seamlessly share in-depth real-time machine data with The Climate Corporation in order to enhance productivity and in-field efficiency
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Commissioner for Agriculture Phil Hogan is today to Seville, Spain where he took part in a Citizens' Dialogue on the future of food. It is the second time this year that the Commissioner engages with civil society in this kind of event, following his visit to the Netherlands last month.
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At Fruit Logistica 2018 in Berlin, Bayer will sign collaboration agreements with two non-governmental organizations (NGOs) committed to supporting smallholder farmers. "80 percent of the food consumed in developing countries is produced by more than 500 million smallholder farmers. Helping them to increase their productivity in a sustainable manner is key to address food security whilst protecting the environment," says Liam Condon, Member of the Board of Management of Bayer AG and President of the Crop Science Division. "That’s why we are collaborating with strong partners to ensure access to important know-how, quality products and markets."
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Press speakings of Commissioner Jourová at a joint press conference on dual quality of food with Chair of Czech Parliament Agriculture committee Mr. Faltynek
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With respect to the Agriculture Council Decision to limit the buying-in of skimmed milk powder at a fixed price to zero tonnes for 2018, the European Milk Board would like to issue the following statement:
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The European Farmers Organisation Copa urged European women farmers to submit applications for the 2018 European Innovation Award.
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The European Cooperative Organisation Cogeca underlined today at a United Nations event the importance of cooperatives in combating poverty and ensuring vibrant rural areas.
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The European Cooperative Organisation Cogeca underlined today at a United Nations event the importance of cooperatives in combating poverty and ensuring vibrant rural areas.
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Copa and Cogeca welcomed in Brussels this week MEPs vote on the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) which calls for no cuts in farming spending.
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Ahead of the Ministerial meeting between the EU and Latin American trade bloc Mercosur, Copa and Cogeca urge the EU not to increase its offer on agriculture in the trade talks.
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Published today by the European Commission, the latest monthly trade report shows that the value of EU agri-food exports reached €12.7 billion in November 2017. With EU agri-food imports at a value of €10 billion, the latest monthly trade balance is now at about €2.7 billion.
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Commissioners Vytenis Andriukaitis and Phil Hogan, respectively in charge of health and food safety and of agriculture, will both be attending the International Green Week in Berlin which gathers over 1,500 exhibitors from the food, agriculture and gardening sectors.
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La Commission européenne a approuvé la demande d'inscription de la «Carne de Salamanca» dans le registre des indications géographiques protégées (IGP).
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The loan guaranteed by the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) will create more than 200 jobs in rural areas and strengthen the agriculture sector in Bulgaria. The deal was signed in Sofia in the presence of President Juncker and Prime Minister Borissov.
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The Commission will give additional funding of €169 million to promote EU agricultural products throughout the world - €27 million more than in 2017.
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All the innovations in irrigation in a demonstration field, a convention on the theme of water and the presence of the world’s leading plant engineering companies. In other words, an event during the event: AcquaCampus at Macfrut 2018 (Rimini, 9-11 May).
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Commissioner for Agriculture Phil Hogan is in the Hague, the Netherlands, today where he is participating in a Citizens Dialogue on the future of food and farming in the EU.
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This report presents the medium-term outlook for the major EU agricultural commodity markets and agricultural income to 2030, based on a set of coherent macroeconomic assumptions deemed most plausible at the time of the analysis. The projections assume a continuation of current agricultural and trade policies.
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Yesterday, the European Parliament and the Council reached a provisional agreement on the effort sharing regulation - a major Commission proposal for implementing the EU's 2030 climate target. It reduces emissions in transport, buildings, waste and agriculture in line with the EU's climate target for 2030.
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NRGene, the worldwide leader in genomic assembly and analysis, is working with a team of researchers from Wageningen University & Research (WUR) in the Netherlands and leading commercial partners to create multi-genome mapping of commercial food potatoes.
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The European Parliament and Council today reached a provisional agreement on a key legislative proposal for implementing the EU's 2030 climate objectives – on accounting of emissions from land use, land use change and forestry (LULUCF). They form part of the EU's policy to drive Europe's transition to a modern and clean economy.
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This morning, EU ministers reached an agreement on fishing opportunities for 2018 in the Atlantic, North Sea and Black Sea following negotiations at the Agriculture and Fisheries Council on 11 - 12 December.
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Today the European Commission has adopted the harmonised format specifications of plant passports, required under the new Plant health regulation.
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A raft of changes due to come into force on 1 January 2018 continue the drive towards a simpler, more modern Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
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During a high-level meeting with the Estonian Presidency today, Copa and Cogeca told EU Farm Ministers that the new EU Commission Communication on the future of food and farming is a good starting point. It is ambitious and as such requires the appropriate levels of funding.
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During a high-level meeting with the Estonian Presidency today, Copa and Cogeca told EU Farm Ministers that the new EU Commission Communication on the future of food and farming is a good starting point. It is ambitious and as such requires the appropriate levels of funding.
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Fraunhofer signed a joint letter of intent in Lisbon yesterday with FCT (Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia), the Portuguese research funding agency. The letter lays out plans to advance the digitalization of agriculture and forestry, including using digital technologies to manage agricultural and forest areas more precisely and sustainably. A joint task force will be set up to develop potential application areas and scenarios.
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Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmström and Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono today announced the successful conclusion of the final discussions on the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA).
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In a ceremony hosted by MEP Franc Bogovič at the European Parliament in Brussels and in presence of EU Commissioner for Digital Economy and Society Mariya Gabriel, this year’s award celebrates in particular the great commitment of private and public organisations, as well as individual initiatives, to pollinators’ wellbeing and bee-friendly farming practices in Europe.
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The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and the Africa Development Bank (AfDB) have announced a new three-year partnership agreement. The agreement comes on the heels of a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (2014-2017) in which the two organizations committed to deliver major eco-conservation programmes for Africa.
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Demain, le commissaire en charge de la Santé et de la Sécurité alimentaire, Vytenis Andriukaitis, participera à Paris à une rencontre ministérielle, co-organisée par la Commission européenne et le ministère français de l'Agriculture sur la question de la Xylella.Apparue pour la première fois en Europe en 2013, dans la région italienne des Pouilles, cette bactérie a depuis été détectée en France, en Allemagne et en Espagne.
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Today, the High Level Group of the Commission's Scientific Advice Mechanism has published a new scientific opinion on 'Food from the Oceans'.
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The 2017 European Awards for Cooperative Innovation were presented in European Parliament in Brussels this week to five agri-cooperatives for their outstanding innovation practices and solutions.
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Simpler rules and a more flexible approach will ensure the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) delivers real results in supporting farmers and leads the sustainable development of EU agriculture.
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After the political agreement on the EU organic farming review was endorsed, a top priority for Copa and Cogeca will be to work on the implementing rules to ensure that there is a smooth transition over the next 3 years.
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A trade show press conference, focus on Italy-China trade, was held in Shanghai last week during Mac Fruit Attraction China, a new trade show for international fresh produce exhibitors. Mac Fruit Attraction China is a joint effort between Spain’s IFEMA, the home of Fruit Attraction; Italy’s Cesena Fiera, the host of Macfrut; and VNU, organizer of Horti China 2017.
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The European Parliament’s COMAGRI hosted a public hearing on young farmers at which CEJA Vice President Iris Bouwers delivered a speech on the importance of generational renewal in the future CAP.
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Copa and Cogeca welcomed today the launch of the European Circular Economy Stakeholder Platform to raise awareness of the circular economy and the recycling of materials.
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The Commission has today appointed two Directors - Ms Veronica Manfredi and Mr Michael Niejahr - in its departments for the environment (DG Environment) and for agriculture and rural development (DG Agriculture), respectively.
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The 2017 edition of Agritechnica opened with many awards ceremonies. A jury composed by 24 international expert journalists decided to mention FPT Industrial both in the “Tractor of the Year 2018” and “Machine of the Year 2018”. FPT Industrial was involved five times during these ceremonies: first for equipping McCormick’s X6.440 VT-Drive tractor, which won the “Tractor of the Year” award in the “Best Utility” category, then for powering Case IH Maxxum Multicontroller, STEYR Profi, New Holland Agriculture T6.175 Dynamic Command in the “Mid-Class” category and the CLAAS AXION 900 in the “High Horsepower tractors” category of the “Machine of the Year” award.
FPT Industrial is proud to underline its strong market leadership in Europe for Agricultural machinery engines over 30 hp, and this accolade is a further recognition of the constant innovation, research and development dedicated to our customers.
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CIBE, CEFS, COPA-COGECA and EFFAT strongly warn the EU Commission to reject any attempt to include sugar in trade offer to Mercosur
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"With 2,803 exhibitors and 450,000 visitors, including more than 100,000 from outside Germany, Agritechnica has further extended its leading role as the global industry gathering for agriculture and agricultural machinery," said Dr. Reinhard Grandke, Chief Executive Officer, DLG (German Agricultural Society), at the conclusion of the fair on 18 November 2017 in Hanover.
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The success story of cooperatives in boosting farmers positioning in the food chain and driving innovation to help farmers produce more efficiently using less resources was underlined by Cogeca President Thomas Magnusson in Estonia today.
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The success story of cooperatives in boosting farmers positioning in the food chain and driving innovation to help farmers produce more efficiently using less resources was underlined by Cogeca President Thomas Magnusson in Estonia today.
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As the EU readies itself to step up its offer to the Latin American trade bloc Mercosur, Copa and Cogeca denounced the EU move to improve the beef offer, warning it jeopardises public health and climate change objectives.
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Topcon Agriculture introduces TAP, the Topcon Agriculture Platform, a cloud-based agricultural ecosystem designed to provide real-time monitoring and data analysis for smart decision making during every phase of the farming cycle.
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At Agritechnica, the leading international trade fair for agricultural technology, taking place from November 12 to 18 in Hanover, technology company Continental will be presenting its custom-made solutions for greater efficiency in the fields at Booth F19 in Hall 3.
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Ahead of the upcoming AGRITECHNICA fair in Hannover (12-18 November), the world’s largest exhibition for farm machinery, CEMA today launched AgriTech 2030, a new long-term Strategic Vision for Europe’s Agricultural Machinery Industry.
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From 8 November to 13 November, Mr Phil Hogan, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, is visiting Saudi Arabia and Iran accompanied by a business delegation of European agri-food producers from 19 different Member States.
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Reacting to a new EU report on the Sustainable Use of Pesticides debated by EU Farm Ministers today, Copa and Cogeca said it confirms the high safety standards that farmers and their cooperatives meet and how well trained they are in applying these products. Something that it is not promoted enough by the EU Institutions.
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New figures released by Copa and Cogeca today estimate a good EU olive and olive oil harvest this year, despite the spread of the disease Xylella fastidiosa
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Up against increasing challenges, Copa and Cogeca launched in Brussels today a new EU action plan to secure a viable future for EU beef producers .
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Reacting to a new EU report on the Sustainable Use of Pesticides debated by EU Farm Ministers today, Copa and Cogeca said it confirms the high safety standards that farmers and their cooperatives meet and how well trained they are in applying these products. Something that it is not promoted enough by the EU Institutions.
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The EU expects this year's UN climate conference (COP23) to reaffirm once again the international community's commitment to stepping up the global response to climate change and achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement.
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Agriculture is steadily developing into a digitized industry as the limits of engineering progress approach. Increased productivity and efficiency in machines has been achieved for many years by increasing engine power, weight and size, but as manufacturers are forced to operate within limited dimensions and weight specifications, the process of optimizing individual components and systems for additional productivity is almost exhausted.
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The EU Commission plan to re-authorise the widely used herbicide active substance glyphosate for only 5 years instead of the full 15 years is unacceptable. It will undermine credibility in the EU institutions and put at risk our safe food supplies, Copa and Cogeca warned.
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Brazilian farming business SLC Agricola is not afraid to try new smart farming technologies, but will only invest in those that are proven to provide a financial return in tests on the company’s farms
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Sustainable agriculture and smart technology are today´s drivers of the agricultural industry. There is a huge potential for a greener farming future and Trelleborg is at the forefront of shaping that future together with its industry partners.
We are pleased to introduce you to Trelleborg´s latest innovations during our press conference held at
Agritechnica 2017 – Convention Center CC, room 1A
November 13, 2017 at 10 am
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Dewulf~Miedema, full-liner in potato and root crop machinery, has chosen Dewulf as its new official company name. With this, the next step is taken in the merger process that both companies began in 2014. Aside from the name, nothing changes for the personnel. The customers and the dealer network can soon enjoy the comfort and advantages of Dewulf as a one-stop-shop. Furthermore, the unified Dewulf is more driven than ever to make work as enjoyable as possible for its customers and to help them grow. This is expressed with its new slogan, “enjoy growing”.
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Agritechnica role as a global meeting point for farmers and technical professionals involved in the agricultural industry is well known, but the exhibition, which takes place from 12 – 18 November at Hanover’s exhibition grounds, is developing a growing reputation among young farmers too.
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The range of skills required to be an agricultural technician in the 21st century will be highlighted as Workshop LIVE returns at Agritechnica 2017 in November. Rather than a heavy toolbox, today’s technician is more likely to be equipped with a laptop computer loaded with diagnostic software, as agricultural machinery becomes more complicated and intelligent.
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Copa and Cogeca warn that European Parliament’s vote today to harmonise the cadmium level in phosphate fertilizers at 40 mg/kg P2O5 6 years after the date of publication of the new EU Fertilizers Regulation is unrealistic and urge the EU Council to take a balanced approach..
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There were more than 320 innovations registered for the innovation awards contest at Agritechnica 2017 and, as always, entrepreneurial vision and risk-taking by the companies’ managers and great inventiveness of the engineers involved were necessary to produce the new products presented.
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Published today by the European Commission, the latest monthly trade report shows that European agri-food exports remain strong for August 2017 further increasing the trade balance to €2.4 billion.
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There will be 23 national pavilion stands at Agritechnica 2017, where smaller companies can get together to exhibit under the banner of their home nation. The popularity of the pavilions, which will represent 13 different countries at this year’s event, has increased consistently, with the numbers growing hand-in-hand with Agritechnica’s international scope.
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The middle session of the three scheduled Ag machinery conference events within Agritechnica 2017’s specialist conference for farm equipment manufacturers and exporters will focus on Northern China, Russia and Ukraine. The conference series Ag Machinery International 2017 – Business Opportunities in Emerging Markets aims to help inform delegates about interesting markets in emerging economies and developing countries, and the program on 15 November is titled “Emerging markets in focus – positive outlook despite political uncertainties”.
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Copa and Cogeca celebrate on World Food Day the vital role of European Farmers and Cooperatives – the first producers of food – who provide nutritious, quality, tasty, affordable food worldwide.
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More than 300 innovations will be on show at Agritechnica 2017 in November, reinforcing the event’s position as the worlds primary forum for new agricultural equipment and technology
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The EU should forge ahead and become a ‘world leader’ in Digital Farming, according to the conclusions of today’s ‘Farming 4.0’ Summit in Brussels which saw EU policy-makers, industry leaders, digital experts and representatives from the farming community come together to discuss the way forward.
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Copa and Cogeca underlined the importance of innovation and new technologies to secure a viable agriculture sector and to meet growing demand at the EU Agri-Innovation Summit hosted by the EU Commission in Lisbon today.
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The European Commission has today issued guidance to help Member States protect agricultural land from threats such as excessive price speculation and ownership concentration.
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Copa and Cogeca underlined today the importance of the EU agriculture sector for meeting the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) at EU Farm Ministers meeting, saying that the CAP has proved to be a successful tool to ensure sustainable agricultural production.
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The very last agricultural quota system in place, managing sugar production in the European Union, will be scrapped on 30 September 2017, after nearly 50 years.
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EU and Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations join forces to take action on food waste and antimicrobial resistance.
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Copa and Cogeca rejected today the EU move to put beef and ethanol in its market access offer to the Latin American Trade Bloc Mercosur and will step up action against it . It would devastate the EU beef sector, growth and jobs in rural areas and undermine EU food safety standards.
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The EU must lift the barriers to young people in the farming sector by offering them access to land and a fair income, according to a survey released today by CEJA in partnership with DeLaval.
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Copa and Cogeca underline urgent need to develop new and better plant varieties using new breeding techniques to deal with increasing challenges like climate change
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The European Commission has approved an investment package of €222 million from the EU budget to support Europe's transition to more sustainable and low-carbon future under the LIFE programme for the Environment and Climate Action.
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Innovative startups in the agricultural and apple industry can apply for the Interpoma Innovation Camp 2017. The event is an excellent platform to gather new ideas and experiences, make connections and new contacts, and help improve and support the apple sector in South Tyrol. Applications are open until Friday, 13 October for the chance to win a unique presentation package.
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Ahead of the European Commission’s conference on Modern Biotechnologies in Agriculture on 28 September, the European seed sector launches the campaign #EmbracingNature to underline and explain the essential role plant breeding innovation plays in tackling Europe’s agri-food challenges, including meeting consumer demands and contributing to a highly productive and more sustainable agriculture and food production system.
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Cosmetic quality standards for fruits and vegetables are specific requirements with regard to colour, shape and size which harvested products have to meet after preparation and packaging. Their aim is to promote trade, optimise the packaging and logistic process and enable product differentiation.
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The European Farmers Organisation Copa, representing 23 million farmers and their families, elected a new President Joachim Rukwied from Germany in Brussels today to help secure a viable future for EU farmers.
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In view of Brexit and upcoming trade talks with Latin American Trade Bloc Mercosur, Copa and Cogeca underline that agriculture must not pay the price
Copa and Cogeca underlined today that agriculture must not pay the price for the exit of the UK from the EU or for the trade liberalizing talks between the EU and Mercosur.
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Last week (on September 15) the first Kipster farm was officially opened. This is the most state-of-the-art layer farm in the world.
The farm is located on the Wusterveld in the town of Venray
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Digitally assisted agricultural machinery and equipment can already be found in arable farming. A few examples of this are self-steering tractors, application technology with variable dose rates for fertilizers and plant protection agents, and automatic yield logging with combine harvesters. Milking robots, sensors, databases and various items of digital auxiliary equipment have been assisting farmers in animal husbandry for a long time too.
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BELFertil, the Belgian-Luxemburg Mineral Fertilizer Association, is celebrating its 10th anniversary today. It is a sector with strong local roots operating in a global context and investing in solutions for global challenges, such as the food issue, and local problems, such as the loss of nutrients into the environment.
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Copa and Cogeca welcome European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker’s work programme and vision of the future of Europe announced today, and underlined the need for a strong budget to fund an innovative Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
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The European organisations representing the forestry and agriculture sectors as well as woodworking and paper industries see the reaction of the European Parliament within the Land Use, Land Use Change and Forestry (LULUCF) regulation as a positive step.
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The trend towards further automation of processes – coupled with intelligent data management systems to optimize the regulation and control of equipment, logistics, documentation, quality assurance and traceability – is proceeding unabated in agriculture. This is demonstrated by the more than 320 new product registrations the DLG (German Agricultural Society) has received for this year's Agritechnica.
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Advances in process automation - Agritechnica 2017 shows solutions – International mood displays confidence – World’s leading trade fair for agricultural machinery and equipment with more than 2,800 exhibitors from 53 countries – Fairgrounds fully booked – More than 400,000 visitors expected
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dewulf~miedema, full-line supplier of potato and carrot processing machinery, will this year once again present its innovative technology for the potato harvest during the main event of the sector, Potato Europe. Although the foremost specialist will be present with an impressive number of machines, the main eye-catcher will be the unveiling of Torro. This long-awaited light, 2-row trailed offset harvester with bunker will be officially launched at the trade show. In addition, dewulf~miedema will give numerous demonstrations of harvesting and storage technology and can be visited at the trade stand V455.
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The European frozen food leader Ardo has acquired a majority stake in VLM Foods, a well-established supplier of processed food in North America, headquartered in Montreal with sales of EUR 129 million (USD 143 million).
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MEPs from the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development praised this week a report presented by the Employers Group of Professional Agricultural Organisations in the EU (Geopa-Copa) on social dumping and undeclared work (UDW) in the EU agricultural sector which calls for more social dialogue and simplification of administrative requirements to effectively tackle UDW.
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The Commission has opened an in-depth investigation to assess the proposed acquisition of Monsanto by Bayer under the EU Merger Regulation. The Commission has concerns that the merger may reduce competition in areas such as pesticides, seeds and traits.
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The European Commission is launching today an EU-wide public consultation on how to make the EU food supply chain fairer.
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VIB, Ghent University and KU Leuven have launched a new spin-off: Aphea.Bio. This new company will develop sustainable agricultural products based on natural microorganisms to increase crop yields and to protect them against specific fungal diseases. Thanks to a successful Series A financing round and an R&D grant approved by Flanders Innovation & Entrepreneurship (VLAIO), Aphea.Bio is now backed by 9 million euros of funding, giving it a clear shot at a leading position in the fast-emerging market of biopesticides and biostimulants. Headquartered in Ghent, Belgium, Aphea.Bio will be led by CEO Dr. Isabel Vercauteren and CSO Dr. Steven Vandenabeele.
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The new EU school fruit, vegetables and milk scheme will be in place on 1 August, ready to be implemented across the Union as of the first day of the 2017/2018 school year.
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The Commission launched today a market observatory for crops to ensure more transparency and increase availability of market data for European farmers and traders.
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On 20 July, the European Commission will launch a new Bioeconomy Knowledge Centre to better support EU and national policy makers and stakeholders with science-based evidence in this field.
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Copa and Cogeca organized a press trip this month on livestock farmer Daniel Coulonval holding where a renewable energy plant has been developed on the farm to produce electricity for 350 households using manure from the cattle.
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Joint WTO proposal also addresses promotion of food security in a way that does not distort the market.
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On 6 July 2017, the CEJA General Assembly met in Brussels in order to elect a new President and four new Vice-Presidents for the next mandate of 2017-2019.
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Copa & Cogeca urged MEPs in Brussels today to approve the draft report by Ms Gàll-Pelcz on the review of the EU fertilizer regulation which is set to be voted on by European Parliaments Internal market and Consumer Protection Committee this week.
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European Parliaments’ Environment Committee today adopted a draft report by the Committee’s Rapporteur MEP Norbert Lins on the Regulation on Land Use, Land Use Change and Forestry (LULUCF). This policy is of utmost importance for the forest and agricultural sectors as it defines the climate benefits of forest management and the use of wood.
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Agricultural policy is best managed at the EU level, focusing on core issues of support for farmers and environmental protection, consultation findings show.
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Copa and Cogeca welcomed in Brussels today the political agreement on a trade deal struck between the EU and Japan, saying that it will have a beneficial impact in particular on the EU livestock and wine sectors.
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Copa & Cogeca and Agricord hosted an event in Rome on Sunday on increasing cooperation between European and African farmers’ organisations to help tackle poverty and ensure rural transformation in Africa and underlined the need to step up investments in skills.
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As of tomorrow, 1 July, the exceptional measures already in place to help producers of perishable fruits affected by the ban on imports imposed by the Russian authorities will be extended for a further year until end of June 2018.
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Yesterday, the negotiators of the Council and the European Parliament reached an agreement to update the rules for organic production, thereby accommodating the needs of a growing sector.
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Ahead of the release of the EU Commissions reflections paper on the future budget, Copa and Cogeca call for no cuts in agriculture spending, warning EU farm incomes already 40% of average earnings
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On 26-27 June, Commissioner Health and Food Safety Vytenis Andriukaitiswill be in Norway on an official visit.
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The monthly value of EU agri-food exports in April 2017 reached € 10.6 billion, a level equal to the last 4-year average.
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As trade talks between the EU and Latin American trade bloc Mercosur intensify, Copa, Cogeca and Celcaa held a high-level breakfast debate with MEPs in Brussels today to look at the impact of a potential trade deal with Mercosur.
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Copa and Cogeca welcomed in Brussels today European Parliaments calls for legislation to be introduced at EU level to tackle unfair trading practices (UTPs) in the food chain and outlined other key elements needed to make the food chain work better.
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Four out of five accidents that happen on public roads with farm machines can be attributed to just five major factors. This is the result of an analysis of accident data from Switzerland from the past six years (2011-2016).
The analysis provides new evidence on why such accidents occur and gives helpful indications on which measures should be pursued with priority to prevent and reduce them. This is particularly important since solid, comparable data for on-road accidents involving farm machines is still largely missing in Europe.
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Copa & Cogeca held a major Workshop this week on How to integrate the Sustainable Development Goals and Climate Change in the future CAP, looking at how to produce more using less resources in the future to feed a growing world population in a changing climate.
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Agritechnica’s organizer, DLG (Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft or German Agricultural Society) today announced that more than 2,400 exhibitors from 53 countries have already registered for the international agricultural exhibition Agritechnica, which will be held in Hanover from 12 to 18 November 2017 (preview days on 12 and 13 November). Agritechnica's project manager, Marie Servais, says all the world's leading companies will be represented at Agritechnica 2017, where they will present their innovations and current developments.
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Copa and Cogeca, CEPF and ELO underlined the potential benefits today of the ‘EU Action Plan for nature, people and the economy’ to make Natura 2000 a success in order to protect biodiversity at a major Conference at the Committee of the Regions in Brussels.
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Today, European Commissioner Vytenis Andriukaitis officially inaugurates the kick-off meeting of the EU Platform on Animal Welfare (the Platform). The Platform will gather 75 representatives from stakeholders, NGOs, scientists, Member States, EEA (European Economic Area) countries, international organisations and EFSA (European Food Safety Authority). This is the 1st time that all key EU players will gather to exchange experiences and contribute to improving the welfare of animals.
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FEFAC will discuss the competitiveness of EU animal production with European Commissioner for Agriculture & Rural Development, Mr Phil Hogan, at its XXVIII Congress in Cordoba on 8 June 2017.
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Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Phil Hogan is today in Kilkenny, Ireland to participate at a seminar on 'Digital Innovation Hubs for Agriculture' organised by the European Innovation Partnership and the European Commission.
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Overview of protein crops – a useful tool in CAP post 2020 discussions
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Copa and Cogeca underlined at a major workshop today during this years’ Green Week the important role farmers and their cooperatives play in driving green jobs in Europe.
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Ahead of vote, Copa & Cogeca urge MEPs to approve draft opinions by MEPs Jan Huitema and Elisabetta Gardini on review of EU fertilizer regulation
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Today, CEJA President Alan Jagoe addressed EU Agriculture Ministers, Commissioner for Agriculture Phil Hogan and Commissioner for Environment Karmenu Vella in the context of the Maltese Presidency’s informal Council meeting on the theme “Climate Change and Water Resources in the EU: Emerging Challenges for Agriculture.”
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The Commission today adopted a delegated act specifying the conditions under which the name of the "teran" wine grape variety may appear on wine labels of the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) "Hrvatska Istra", a Croatian wine, allowing its producers to use the name "teran" in the labelling of their wines under specific labelling conditions.
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The Commission has approved today the addition of a new wine name from the United Kingdom to the quality register of Protected Designations of Origin (PDO). The "Darnibole" is a white, dry wine made from bacchus grapes variety.
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Today, the first European Agri-Food Startup of the Year Challenge was launched. This is a competition in which European startup companies in the field of food and agriculture are challenged to come up with new solutions regarding food security, sustainability, food quality, food safety, and nutritious food. In doing so, the Netherlands is leveraging its leading position in the field and taking the initiative in calling for new solutions from European startups. FoodNexus, a partnership of more than 50 parties in Europe, with members from the industry as well as research institutes, is a founder of the European Agri-Food Startup of the Year Challenge.
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Today, the first European Agri-Food Startup of the Year Challenge was launched. This is a competition in which European startup companies in the field of food and agriculture are challenged to come up with new solutions regarding food security, sustainability, food quality, food safety, and nutritious food.
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The sixth edition of the Flemish Agriculture and Fisheries Report (LARA / VIRA) was published in 2016. As the central theme is food, the report is entitled 'Food for thought'. The report is a description of the whole Flemish food system.
We describe what the Flemish eat, what attitudes, behaviors and trends play a role and what the economic, environmental and social consequences are. We analyze the different Flemish food supply chains and indicate the importance of distribution, processing and production. To meet the challenges of the Flemish food system we conclude with a set of recommendations.
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Copa and Cogeca adopt position on future EU rural development policy and underline importance of implementing the Cork 2.0 Declaration to ensure a better life in rural areas at major Conference
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Following the closure of the 12 week period of public consultation on "modernising and simplifying the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP)" at midnight on 2 May, preliminary figures indicate that the European Commission has received in excess of 320,000 responses from all 28 Member States.
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European farmers and cooperative Presidents united in Brussels today and agreed on a joint position on the future Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), underlining the need for a stronger, sustainable and more modern CAP which is more capable of responding to current and future challenges.
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From today, 27 April, to 3 May Phil Hogan, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, will be on a working visit first to the United States and then to Canada where he will be accompanied by a business delegation comprising over 60 agri-food representatives from 23 Member States. This trip is part of the Commission's support to European producers in their effort to find new markets.
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The European Commission has adopted a new Action Plan to improve the protection of nature and biodiversity in the EU, for the benefit of its citizens and the economy.
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• CR8.90 soybean harvesting world record: 439.730 tonnes in 8 hours
• CR Series – a record-breaking combine range
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A new system of electronic certification to better monitor imports of organic products becomes applicable tomorrow, making the EU a global leader in traceability and in the collection of reliable data on trade of these products.
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Potato breeder Solynta started a potato revolution nearly ten years ago: to develop and apply new breeding technologies to convert potatoes into a hybrid crop. Years of research went into the development of a hybrid potato.
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”DLG will be co-operating with Informationssystem Integrierte Pflanzenproduktion e.V. (Information System Integrated Plant Production) on a new special feature at Agritechnica 2017
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The European Commission published for the first time on April 10 a comprehensive EU protein balance sheet. The EU protein balance sheet 2015/2016 is an overview of total EU production, consumption and trade of all marketable sources of proteins used in animal feed production. Next to well-known protein-rich materials such as soybean meal, rapeseed meal and pulses, the balance sheet includes sources with lower protein content like cereals.
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The Commission today published as part of its commitment to a more transparent trade and investment policy – a report summarising the progress made during the latest round of negotiations for a trade agreement between the EU and Mercosur (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay), which took place in Buenos Aires during the week of 20 March.
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The European Commission has approved under the EU Merger Regulation the proposed acquisition of Syngenta (based in Switzerland) by ChemChina. The approval is conditional on the divestiture of significant parts of ChemChina's European pesticide and plant growth regulator business.
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Mayor of World Potato City Emmeloord Aucke van der Werff himself took place in the telehandler to throw a load of seed potatoes in the Miedema planter, to get the planting underway
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In a high-level meeting with the Maltese Presidency, Copa & Cogeca outlined views on the EU Omnibus Regulation and simplification of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) discussed by EU Farm Ministers in Luxembourg today
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Many European farm and cooperative organisations are opening their doors free to the public in 2017, bringing consumers back in touch with nature and showing the many benefits of farming.
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The European Commission has approved under the EU Merger Regulation the proposed merger between US-based chemical companies Dow and DuPont. The approval is conditional in particular on the divestiture of major parts of DuPont's global pesticide business, including its global R&D organisation.
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Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Phil Hogan is on a two-day visit in Zagreb, Croatia to discuss the future of agricultural and rural policies as the European Union celebrates the 60th anniversary of the Treaties of Rome and debates the White Paper on the future of Europe.
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Copa and Cogeca underline importance on World Water Day of sustainable water management to produce quality food and call for research and innovation to be stepped up WorldWaterDay
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Nearly 44 000 farmers from across the EU have applied for support from the EU for agreeing to voluntarily reduce their production of milk by nearly 852 000t in the last quarter of 2016.
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Some 23,000 farmers in 13 potato-producing counties in Kenya have signed contracts with various potato processing companies in the country to buy the produce to supply enough food to consumers.
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European fruit and vegetable producer organisations will benefit from simpler rules, reduced administrative burden and greater financial support in times of crisis thanks to new rules adopted today by the European Commission.
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The Commission publishes today its short-term outlook for arable crops, olive oil, meat and dairy markets in the EU for 2017-2018, confirming that the reduction in the EU milk supply at the end of 2016 contributed to a significant recovery in EU milk prices. Exports and domestic demand led to record high prices for butter and a significant price recovery for cheese.
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Copa welcomed in Brussels today the initiative from European Parliament to debate on International Women’s Day the Women’s Economic Empowerment: Let’s Act Together[1] and underlined the importance of this also in the agriculture sector.
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The latest addition to the Copernicus satellite Earth observation family will halve the time needed to provide precision land-use data to benefit farmers, builders, fishermen and anyone who needs rapid access to up-to-the-minute data on conditions on the ground.
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This week, the British government has extended the avian influenza (bird flu) prevention zone to April 2017. Also the requirements of the zone have changed, meaning keepers may let their birds out provided that they have enhanced biosecurity measures in place. These restrictions have caused havoc for free-range and organic poultry farms across the UK.
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Trade agreements can help increase sales and support jobs in the EU agri-food sector, a new study shows.
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Agritechnica will have an overall theme for the first time this year. It has chosen “Green Future-Smart Technology”, which recognizes the need for today’s agriculture to be sustainable in terms of ecology, economy and human resources. It also suggests the way to achieve this is for farmers to use all the available knowledge about interactions of plants and soil, technology and labor to develop appropriate farming systems.
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New Copa Chairman of the Horse Working Party underlined the need to have a true European policy for horses to maximize the economic potential of the sector and to take better account of the benefits of the equine sector for rural areas.
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Copa & Cogeca welcomed this week EU Ministers move to act against the use of patents on plants bred via essentially biological processes, saying that we have constantly stressed that patent law is not the right instrument for the EU agriculture sector.
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Copa & Cogeca welcome EU Ministers move to act against the use of patents on plants bred via essentially biological processes
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Copa President Martin Merrild pays tribute to FNSEA President and Copa Vice-President Xavier Beulin, saying it is a great loss to agriculture
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As one of the leading partners in the European H2020 project “Internet of Food and Farm 2020” (IoF2020), ILVO contributes to the large-scale introduction of Internet of Things (IoT) in the European and Flemish agriculture and food sector. In this way, the transformation of agriculture and food into smart networks of connected objects has also begun in Flanders.
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Agritechnica 2017 has just launched its overall theme “Green Future – Smart Technology” in 2017.
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Reacting to MEPs approval of the trade agreement between the EU and Canada (Ceta) today, Copa & Cogeca welcomed the move saying it offers opportunities for the agri-food sector on both sides as long as trade is managed properly to avoid market disruption.
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Mitsui Chemicals Agro, Inc. (MCAG) has acquired a 10% shareholding position in Belchim Crop Protection NV. The two companies agreed on a business collaboration. This collaboration and shareholding will reinforce the relationship with MCAG and drive further success for both companies by accelerating the development of products in the market as well as introducing new products into the market.
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With names like AAC Poppy, AAC Glossy, and AAC Red Viola – today's marketplace for spuds is no longer as simple as "you say PO-TAY-TOE, I say PO-TAH-TOE."
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Copa & Cogeca welcome European Farm Commissioner Phil Hogans’ statement that adequate budget needed for #futureCAP in high-level meeting
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Copa & Cogeca underline that EU agriculture and forestry sectors part of the solution in tackling climate change but right policy must be in place to maximize potential
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Agritechnica 2017, The world’s largest trade fair for agricultural machinery and equipment, is once again expecting very good participation of domestic and foreign agricultural machine manufacturers. Based on previous participation levels at this time of year and the high levels of interest again this year, the organizer, DLG (German Agricultural Society), is expecting more than 2,900 exhibitors from Germany and the rest of the world.
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Bayer showcases its Food Chain Partnership activities at Fruit Logistica in Berlin that is taking place from February 8 to 10. The company presents a number of successful partnership examples from various regions that link partners along the value chain enabling safety, quality, affordability, transparency and above all sustainability, from seed to shelf.
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Last week the CEJA team attended the kick off meeting of the “Creating Entrepreneurs in Food (CEF)’ project in Ireland. The project -- supported by the Erasmus+ programme -- aims to build food innovation and entrepreneurship-focused rural communities, and develop a model for Europe.
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The debates of the 1st European Sorghum Congress, held in Bucharest last November, helped spark a new dynamics around the crop – as also proved by the consensus reached at the end of the event, calling for the development of a European sorghum industry.
The call was soon followed by the European Commission’s clearance for a EUR 1,17-million grant, of which EUR 870 000 are spread over a three-year period, having been earmarked for the promotion of the crop across Europe, beginning spring 2017.
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The FAO Food Price Index (FFPI) in January 2017 averaged 173.8 points, up 3.7 points (2.1 percent) from the revised December value. At this level, the FFPI is at its highest value since February 2015.
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The cliché of Asian agriculture is endless fields with rice. But there is literally and figuratively speaking room for the potato.
The project ‘Growing out of poverty with the potato’ is trying to make Vietnam self-sufficient in the production of potatoes. Interestingly, the project involves the whole chain from producer to consumer.
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Modernising and simplifying the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), one of the European Union's longstanding policies, will allow it to better respond to today's social, political, environmental and economic challenges.
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Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture of Kazakhstan Askar Myrzakhmetov on January 25 met with representatives of the Dutch company Farm Frites which plans to build a plant for production of frozen fried potatoes in the northeast of Kazakhstan, the official website of the Prime Minister of Kazakhstan reports.
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In a high-level meeting, Copa and Cogeca discussed today the Maltese Presidency’s work programme and outlined key ways to ensure a sustainable EU agriculture sector in the future Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
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Together with the EU Livestock and Meat Trade Union (UECBV) and the EU Commission, Copa & Cogeca held a high-level event at Green Week in Berlin today and underlined the success of strategies to contain the spread of African Swine Fever which has enabled the EU to consolidate and even increase its market share on many export markets.
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The monthly value of EU agri-food exports in November 2016 reached a new record level of €11.7 billion, which is € 813 million higher than in November 2015. Considering a slight decrease in agri-food imports from third countries, the EU now has a trade surplus in agri-food products at €19 billion over 12 months.
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Studies on the safety of GMOs, glyphosate or other pesticides could enjoy higher levels of trust from the general public if there were stronger guarantees that the science behind them is really independent, says Bernhard Url, executive director of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).
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China's urbanisation drive this century will cost it nearly 9% of its crop output by 2030 - with the loss in Egypt more than one-third, a reflection of the pace at which cities are swallowing up productive land.
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NRGene's GenoMAGICTM Software Makes Genomic Selection and Trait Mapping More Efficient
Syngenta, a leading global agrochemical and seed company, has chosen NRGene's GenoMAGICTM cloud-based software package for more comprehensive evaluations to accelerate trait discovery and breeding across diverse crops. NRGene is the leading genomic big data company.
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On the last trading day, wheat futures finished the year down, as did corn, while soybean futures finished the year up.
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Reacting today to EU Commission reflections on the Fitness Check of EU Nature legislation and implementation of the Birds and Habitats Directives, Copa & Cogeca underlined the need to strike the right balance between environmental, economic and social objectives.
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Copa Vice-President Henri Brichart elected to Chair EU Commission stakeholder group on the future Common Agricultural Policy (CAP)
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A unanimous agreement on fishing opportunities for 2017 in the Atlantic, North Sea and Black Sea was reached last night by EU ministers following negotiations at the Agriculture and Fisheries Council on 12 - 13 December.
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With the opening of exhibitor registrations for Agritechnica 2017, the new exhibition theme has been announced. Reflecting the high-tech side of modern agriculture, and the new working environment of today’s farmer, Agritechnica’s new main theme in 2017, “Green Future – Smart Technology”, will shape many of the features at the fair, which takes place in Hanover, Germany, from 12–18 November 2017.
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Today, the European Commission adopted a proposal for a Regulation on new, integrated ways to collect and use statistics on farms so as to better support policy making in general and agricultural policy in particular. The proposed framework Regulation on Integrated Farm Statistics will improve the analysis of the state, trends and impacts of European agriculture and contribute to EU responses in the areas of climate change, environmental policies, rural development, and food security.
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A top priority for the new Chairman of Copa & Cogecas’ Working Party on Research and Innovation Dr. Daniel Rossi is to focus work on “green growth” - how to produce more while using less resources.
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Today the College held an orientation debate on the next steps of the Fitness Check of the Birds and Habitats Directives.
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South Korea plans to cull more chickens and ducks as it tries to contain an outbreak of bird flu, with a total of around 8 percent of the nation's poultry population expected to be slaughtered.
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25,437 visitors from 57 countries came to Messe Stuttgart from 27 to 30 November for the première of INTERVITIS INTERFRUCTA HORTITECHNICA. This year the traditional trade fair opened with an extended concept: In addition to technology for wine and juice, the event also presented innovations for special crops. The halls were well-filled - organisers, exhibitors and visitors were relatively positive and optimistic. Particularly pleasing: The quality of the visitors increased once again compared with the trade fair in 2013.
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Copa and Cogeca underlined key measures needed for a strong rural development policy at a major event held in Brussels this week, stressing that it’s important to have efficient EU rural networks (ENRD and EIPagri)) and to improve infrastructures and skills in rural areas to unleash the potential of digital farming.
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Copa & Cogeca rejected in Brussels today EU Commission plans to cut by almost half the targets for conventional biofuels used in transport by nearly half by 2030, warning that it will reduce the EU’s ability to meets its climate goals and to decarbonise the transport sector.
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Copa & Cogeca outlined key priorities and goals for the EU Platform on Food Losses and Waste (FLW) at the first meeting held in Brussels today.
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Washington State University (WSU) scientist Mark Pavek and two Tri-State potato research colleagues check out new potato varieties in a WSU research field.
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The economic accounts for agriculture show that total agricultural output in the European Union (EU) stood at €411.2 billion at basic prices in 2015, down by 1.8% compared with 2014. In 2015, the equivalent of 60% of the value of agricultural output generated was spent on intermediate consumption (input goods and services), while gross value added (i.e. the value of output minus the value of intermediate consumption) was the equivalent of 40% (or €164.6 bn).
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European farmers eligible for direct payments will receive as from 1 December 2016 an additional €435 million amounting to the unused crisis reserve. Since the 2013 CAP reform, a relevant amount is deducted every year from farmers' direct payments in order to create a yearly agricultural crisis reserve.
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Around 88 million tonnes of food are wasted annually in the EU – around 20% of all food produced, with associated costs estimated at 143 billion euros. We are looking for every opportunity to prevent food waste and strengthen sustainability of the food system.
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Copa & Cogeca call on EU Ministers to support the EU Commission and not allow patents on products created via essentially biological processes
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Jim Cruickshank OBE, one of the most well respected seed producers in the UK, is this year’s winner of the British Potato Industry Award, organised by AHDB Potatoes. Presented to individuals for their outstanding contribution to the industry, Jim is the 20th winner of this prestigious honour.
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A tender procedure on skimmed milk powder currently in intervention will open this Friday 25 November following today's vote by Member States on the Commission's proposal.
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The European Commission published today the second report on the operation of the so-called Milk Package, a series of measures launched in 2012 to strengthen the position of European dairy producers in the supply chain.
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Copa and Cogeca send letter to MEPs urging them to approve herbicide active substance bentazone after EU food safety authority (EFSA) gave positive assessment
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This will be an Interpoma tenth anniversary very much focused on the event’s growing internationalisation. For twenty years now, the international trade show on the production, storage and marketing of apples has taken place every two years at the Fiera Bolzano: this year the event will run from 24 to 26 November.
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This will be an Interpoma tenth anniversary very much focused on the event’s growing internationalisation. For twenty years now, the international trade show on the production, storage and marketing of apples has taken place every two years at the Fiera Bolzano: this year the event will run from 24 to 26 November.
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Copa & Cogeca debate ways with EU Commission & MEPs to protect farmers against increasing risks in EU agriculture sector
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World sugar inventories will fall to a five-year low by the end of the 2016-17 season, as consumption rises faster than production.
The US Department of Agriculture saw sugar stocks falling by some 7.2m tonnes in 2016-17, to 30.78m tonnes.
This compared to a previous forecast of a 5.1m tonne drop.
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A new EU trade impact study released by the EU Commission in Brussels today confirms the negative impact that upcoming trade deals could have on the EU beef, sheep meat, rice and poultry sectors whilst the impact on the dairy sector is more favourable, Copa & Cogeca Presidents said today.
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Economic study gives valuable information on potential effects of future trade agreements and validates current EU approach of systematically protecting sensitive sectors.
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Economic study gives valuable information on potential effects of future trade agreements and validates current EU approach of systematically protecting sensitive sectors.
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The Commission will consider the report's recommendations and an appropriate policy response in line with its continuous support to the agricultural sector.
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The move came after the EU Commission released a statement saying that EU promotion funds will rise to 133 million euros in 2017 . This will contribute to raise awareness in the EU and also in non-EU markets of our high quality and diverse EU products. It also comes after Commissioner Hogans’ mission to Hong Kong, Vietnam and Indonesia in November to promote EU agri produce. Copa and Cogeca representatives play a key role in these missions.
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EU producers will receive an increased budget of €133 million in 2017 to promote EU agricultural products outside and inside the EU and to continue finding new markets.
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The Real Potential of Sorghum in Europe” was the subject for the first – and successful – European Sorghum Congress* held in Bucharest on 3 and 4 November, 2016.
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Currency and supply dynamics are affecting the relative price of British processing potatoes compared to supplies from Belgium and the Netherlands.
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From 1 November, Phil Hogan, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, is visiting Hong Kong, Vietnam and Indonesia accompanied by a business delegation of European agri-food executives from 16 different Member States.
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Chinese authorities on Sunday recommended separating various rights to rural land, which they say would better protect property rights, improve land circulation, increase farmers' incomes, and contribute to the development of modern agriculture.
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The European Investment Fund (EIF) and The Danish Growth Fund (Vækstfonden) have signed a COSME agreement in Denmark, guaranteed by the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), the heart of the Investment Plan for Europe.
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INTERPOM | PRIMEURS, the leading indoor trade fair for the entire potato, vegetable and fruit sector in Europe, will be held in Kortrijk Xpo (Belgium) from Sunday November 27 to Tuesday 29 November 2016.
Once again, the event has chalked up strong growth figures and with 310 exhibitors, all stand space available is already fully booked, weeks before the opening date. This year will be the largest edition ever, making it the biggest indoor potato trade fair in the world where the whole chain is represented, from growing to processing and marketing.
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CEMA’s Technical Board – which bring together Europe’s leading industry experts on farm machinery – has appointed a new Chairman: during the next two years, the Board will be headed by Dr. Markus Baldinger, Chief Technical Officer, Pöttinger (Austria), who was unanimously elected during the Board’s last meeting on 12 October in Brussels. On the same occasion, Jeannot Hironimus, Vice-President Product Portfolio and Business Development of Kuhn (France), was re-elected as Vice-Chairman of the group.
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As the level of applications for reducing milk production in the 3 month period starting on November 1 - covering roughly 97 880 tonnes from some 6 000 milk producers around the EU - exceeded the available volume for this second wave of offers (12 198 tonnes), the Commission has applied an allocation coefficient of 0.12462762.
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On World Food Day, Copa and Cogeca underlined in Brussels the crucial role of EU farmers and cooperatives in producing sustainable food supplies to help fight hunger and malnutrition across the world.
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At a major event held in European Parliament today, hosted by MEP Elisabeth Köstinger, Copas’ Innovation Prize for Women Farmers and Special Achievement Award were presented to Margaret Farrelly from Ireland and Lisa Paganelli from Italy.
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Copa & Cogeca outlined first thoughts on the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) post 2020 after two days of intensive talks at a high-level Congress of European Farmers organized in Greece today.
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Bayer plans to further expand its position in the market for biological crop protection products and has invested some EUR 16 million in new capacity for research, development and production at its Wismar site.
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Bayer today announced the completion of the sale of the Consumer business from Environmental Science, a business unit of the Crop Science division, to SBM. The Consumer business encompasses the Bayer Garden and Bayer Advanced businesses in Europe and North America. With the completion of the sale, 220 dedicated employees as well as the entire product portfolios of Bayer Garden and Bayer Advanced, including the home and garden R&D pipeline, and for a transitional period a license to use the Bayer brand, have been transferred to SBM.
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The Commission has approved today the addition of two new product names to the list of Protected Designations of Origin (PDO) both from Croatia.
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Laurie Breuch, World Dairy Expo dairy cattle show coordinator, and Wisconsin Secretary Ben Brancel pose with Miss Madison a granite statue commissioned in honor of World Dairy Expo Anniversary and unveiled.
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Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmström is in Kyiv today to discuss the progress in putting into practice the Association Agreement between the EU and Ukraine, in particular the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area.
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Koppert and Lantmännen BioAgri have agreed on the acquisition of the assets of BioAgri’s microbial products, registrations and IP by Koppert. The agreement means Koppert will expand its seed treatment capabilities and Lantmännen BioAgri will continue to cover its home market area in Scandinavia and around the Baltic Sea. Both parties have also agreed to further develop a strong partnership around the acquired product portfolio with joint R&D and marketing.
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The Milk Production Reduction Scheme, announced by the Commission to incentivise a reduction in milk production, has been almost fully subscribed (98.9 %), with applications made offering to reduce production by 1.06 million tonnes (of the 1.07 million tonnes available) in the final quarter of 2016.
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Please find attached a press release from the EU Agricultural Machinery Association Cema underlining the benefits of smart farming and precision agriculture in helping producers to produce more using less resources & calling for support and an adequate broadband infrastructure to unleash the promise of digital farming.
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For the 12-month period from August 2015 to July 2016, EU agri-food exports reached a value of more than EUR 128 billion, corresponding to an increase of 0.7% in value terms compared to the same period one year ago.
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Copa and Cogeca Presidents outlined key challenges facing the EU agriculture sector at a major press event in Brussels today, warning of the fragile state of the commodity markets and excessive red tape under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
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Copa and Cogeca pay tribute to André Herlitzka: founder & creator of the most powerful agricultural lobby in the EU
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On 15 September 2016 in Brussels at the civil dialogue group meeting on “International aspects of agricultural policy”, a delegation of agricultural worker unions affiliated to EFFAT highlighted the threats to jobs for agricultural workers and the dismantling of social protection caused by EU trade policy.
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CEJA has called for a fair, well-functioning and practical food supply chain where farmers determine the price at the Informal Meeting of Ministers of Agriculture and Fisheries on Tuesday 13 September in Bratislava, Slovakia. Although CEJA acknowledges the recent creation of the Milk and Meat Market Observatories, as well as the Agricultural Markets Task Force, much more decisive action needs to be urgently taken to strengthen farmers’ position in the food supply chain.
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European Commissioner for Agriculture, Phil Hogan, welcomed the Declaration entitled "A Better Life In Rural Europe" presented to him by the participants of the Cork 2.0 Conference.
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Strong innovation pipeline will help solve key agricultural challenges / Sustained high R&D investment level of about 10 percent of sales confirmed / EUR 2.5 billion capital expenditure program from 2017 to 2020 / Strong commitment to sustainability also supported by investments in Digital Farming, ForwardFarming and Smallholder Farming
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Copa & Cogeca welcomed adoption today of a 2016 European Rural Development Declaration in Cork & underlined the importance of farmers and forest owners and their cooperatives in achieving its goals with the right support and investments in place.
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On 5-6 September Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Phil Hogan will attend the second edition of the Cork Rural Development Conference which will focus on the challenges facing farming and rural areas, and the potential policy responses.
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Apples are the second most commonly consumed fruit in the U.S., according to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, but the way apples are harvested in the orchard hasn’t changed much in the past two centuries. It’s still a manual process, by and large.
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The 11th edition of PotatoEurope will be held on 14 and 15 September 2016 at Villers-Saint-Christophe in France, halfway between Lille and Paris. This open-field exhibition – organised by the ARVALIS - Institut du Végétal agricultural research institution with the support of the entire French potato industry – has become a worldclass business gathering. Dynamic equipment demonstrations, the Commercial Village and an introduction to technical innovations in potato production are the highlights of this event, which draws visitors from every continent.
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From winegrowing to enology through to marketing: The programme of the 62nd German Winegrowers' Congress at INTERVITIS INTERFRUCTA HORTITECHNICA
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The European Investment Bank (EIB) is lending EUR 15 million to Agricover Credit IFN in order to finance smaller projects implemented by SMEs in the agricultural sector.
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Reacting to new EU rules to tackle climate change, Copa & Cogeca welcome fact flexibility has been included in the plans to enable EU agriculture and forestry sectors to curb climate change at the same time as ensuring food security
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Low-emission mobility beyond 2020 will still need conventional biofuels Acknowledging the European Commission long-term strategy to tackle emissions in the EU transport sector, FEDIOL welcomes the proposal to set blending obligations for fuel suppliers as a means to grant a certain share of renewable energy in transport, but expresses concern on the lack of perspective for crop-based biofuels after 2020. “Conventional and advanced biofuels do not mutually exclude each other.
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Commissioner Hogan Engages with Young Farmers at CEJA General Assembly on Access to Land and Credit
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The European Commission yesterday presented a new package of measures worth €500 million from EU funds to support farmers in the face of ongoing market difficulties, particularly on the dairy market.
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EU confirms its No. 1 position as agri-food exporter worldwide. Agri-food exports reached €129 billion in 2015, more than 7 % of all goods exported from the EU.
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EU confirms its No. 1 position as agri-food exporter worldwide. Agri-food exports reached €129 billion in 2015, more than 7 % of all goods exported from the EU.
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Invasive alien species are plants or animals alien to their natural environment, crowding out indigenous species and thereby representing one of the most rapidly growing threats to biodiversity in the EU.
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The biggest edition ever and …. the biggest indoor potato trade fair in the world The 18th edition of INTERPOM | PRIMEURS will be held from Monday 27 to Tuesday 29 November 2016 at Kortrijk Xpo (Belgium). INTERPOM | PRIMEURS is the most specialised indoor trade fair for the potato, vegetable and fruit sector in Europe where the whole chain is represented: from growing, to processing and marketing. The trade fair is set to continue growing and improving its global reach and the 2016 edition will be the biggest edition ever. INTERPOM | PRIMEURS is also the biggest indoor trade fair in the world for the potato sector, the professional platform par excellence where you can check all the latest market developments and innovations. The next edition will take up the whole of the Kortrijk Xpo complex – including additional space for stands in the Rambla. And the theme of this year’s promising event is ‘Growing through precision technology’.
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Waste from potato crops could be ‘recycled’ into personal care products such as medical gels and beauty creams – thanks to a new University of East Anglia (UEA) research project.
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The digital revolution has the potential to change European Agriculture profoundly: Decision-making becomes sharper, smarter, and simpler. By combining the power of a farmer’s instinct with cutting-edge technologies such as satellite imagery, variable application algorithms, high-tech sensors, mobile applications or GPS, a farmer can make better informed choices that lead to higher yields and a lower environmental impact.
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In view of the Agriculture Council meeting of 27-28 June 2016 and the ongoing EU agricultural market crisis, CEJA has published a statement requesting immediate action to be taken by decision-makers in terms of funding the implementation of Article 222 as well as more medium to long-term measures to ensure crises of such scale are avoided at all costs in future. Young farmers – and therefore the future of EU food production – are being hit the hardest by this crisis due to recent investments, a lack of financial backing and cash flow difficulties, all of which adds to their vulnerability when it comes to such substantial price drops.
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EU agriculture ministers must take temporary measures to cap milk production in order to stabilise the market and ensure the survival of the European milk sector
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China is the world’s largest apple producer and offers excellent business opportunities to those operating in this sector. This is the message that emerged during the "Interpoma International" conference held recently in Bolzano as a preview of Interpoma 2016, the international apple show taking place from 24 to 26 November at Fiera Bolzano.
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China is the world’s largest apple producer and offers excellent business opportunities to those operating in this sector. This is the message that emerged during the "Interpoma International" conference held recently in Bolzano as a preview of Interpoma 2016, the international apple show taking place from 24 to 26 November at Fiera Bolzano.
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High quality, innovative meat products and new easy to cook recipes were presented at a major event organized by Copa & Cogeca and hosted by MEP Michel Dantin in European Parliament today as part of the #livestockcounts #enjoyagrifood campaign.
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The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr Phil Hogan, participates today in a Citizens' Dialogue in Aarhus, Denmark to discuss among other topics farming, sustainability and growth.
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New Holland has signed a European agreement with Italian machine builder Mascar, specialised in equipment for haymaking and seeding.
Mascar produces a complete range of round balers, bale wrappers, precision pneumatic planters and mechanical planters.
The contract provides for the exclusive supply of a range of fixed chamber round balers designed for perfect baling of any type of crop from hay to straw. Rugged, straightforward, reliable and compact, this series of balers combines low operating costs with exceptional performance.
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Overall satisfaction among exhibitors and visitors despite adverse weather conditions - Some 22,000 visitors at the estate Maria Burghausen in Hassfurt (Lower Franconia) - More than 2,000 foreign visitors
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The organizers and exhibitors at the 2016 DLG-Feldtage today expressed satisfaction with the overall development and outcome of this year's exhibition – in spite of adverse weather conditions. The event, which was held in Germany at the Maria Burghausen estate, in Hassfurt (Lower Franconia) from 14 to 16 June 2016, produced an impressive array of modern crop production methods and solutions.
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These eight new names bring the number of protected food names to 1349 (PDO, PGI and Traditional Specialities Guaranteed altogether).
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The European Commission today presented a proposal for the European Union to ratify the Paris Agreement, the world's first universal, legally binding deal to tackle climate change. The Commission's proposal comes just weeks after the EU and 174 countries signed the landmark agreement at a ceremony.
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The European Commission has today formally extended until the end of June 2017 the safety net measures for the EU fruit and vegetables sector. Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Phil Hogan, had announced "a prolongation of the measures for another year, reflecting the new market situation" at the Council meeting of EU agriculture Ministers in March this year.
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The EPP Group in the European Parliament is by far the strongest defender of the interests of European farmers. During the last reform of the CAP, it was the EPP Group that ensured a substantial EU agriculture budget. We continue to stand up for a common agricultural policy and together with our farmers amid the current crisis on the agricultural markets.
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The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr Phil Hogan, today visits Portugal, where he will open the first water connection from the Alqueva Irrigation Global System in the small town of Ervidel.
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The European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr Phil Hogan, today confirmed his intention to extend the date by which Member States may make CAP direct payments without any reductions in the rate of reimbursement from the EU to the Member States concerned. Effectively, this measure extends the deadline by which direct payments must be made from 30 June to 15 October.
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China has confirmed that it is lifting its import ban introduced 4 years ago on bovine & ovine genetic material from Denmark, France, Germany and United Kingdom due to Schmallenberg virus.
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Efficient, alternative and environmentally friendly ways of dealing with farm slurry and digestate will be in the spotlight at the 2016 DLG-Feldtage exhibition, which will be held from 14 to16 June at Maria Burghausen in Hassfurt (Lower Franconia), Germany.
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The European Commission welcomes the commitment by the G20 Agriculture Ministerial meeting to support sustainable agriculture for ensuring global food security and to fight antimicrobial resistance, including the phasing out of antibiotics as growth promoters in animals.
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On 5 June, the Port State Measures Agreement, a key international treaty aimed at combating illegal fishing, will come into force.
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From 14th to 16th of June 2016 the DLG-Feldtage take place at Gut Mariaburghausen in Hassfurt, Bavaria. The Agency for Renewable Resources (FNR) is partner of this event and presents the main topic “Bioeconomy – agriculture as raw material producer”. Various crops, products and special harvest equipment show many possibilities of energetic and material use for renewable resources.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Glyphosate
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Copa & Cogeca underlined the crucial role of using drones in agriculture as an additional agronomic tool that can help to enhance resource efficiency, productivity and profitability as well as ensure greater sustainability at a major Conference organized in the Netherlands today.
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A stronger and simpler Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) post 2020 which better responds to the challenges hitting the EU agricultural sector is what is needed, Copa & Cogeca told EU Farm Ministers at their meeting in Amsterdam this week.
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Yesterday, CEJA President Alan Jagoe addressed EU Agriculture Ministers and European Commissioner for Agriculture Phil Hogan in the context of the Dutch Presidency's informal Council meeting in Amsterdam on the theme 'Food for the Future - the Future of Food'. Mr. Jagoe spoke on behalf of all European young farmers, calling on those present to send a positive signal to young farmers and acknowledge how indispensable they are to the 'Future of Food', warning Council members that young farmers are currently being lost from the industry every day, putting the future of European food production at risk.
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Bayer and the aerospace technology company Planetary Resources, based in Redmond, Washington, USA, have signed a memorandum of understanding about the development of applications and products based on satellite images. Bayer intends to purchase these data from Planetary Resources to create new agricultural products and improve existing ones. The collaboration will be part of the Digital Farming Initiative at Bayer (www.digitalfarming.bayer.com). Financial details were not disclosed.
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In response to further market speculation and stakeholder inquiries, Bayer is publicly disclosing the contents of its private proposal to acquire Monsanto. Bayer has made an all-cash offer to acquire all of the issued and outstanding shares of common stock of Monsanto Company for USD 122 per share or an aggregate value of USD 62 billion.
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Ukraine, the country with its fertile black Chernozem soil and huge agricultural potential, is largely unknown to European investors and agricultural specialists. To increase the knowlegde of the agricultural potential of Ukraine, Promote Ukraine in cooperation with Rehbock & Friends, Brussels Plus and other partners, will organise the business seminar "Doing business in Ukraine: Focus on agriculture".
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This year, the G7 summit will take place from 26 to 27 May in Ise-Shima (Japan). The European Union will be represented by the President of the European Commission, Jean-Claude Juncker, and the President of the European Council, Donald Tusk.
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Japan has lifted an embargo on Italian beef in place for 15 years, following an earlier opening of its market to beef products from other EU Member States (France, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland, Denmark and Sweden).
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Copa & Cogeca warned against using patents in the EU plant breeding sector sector, warning it will reduce the amount of new varietes on the market and add to costs, at a Conference hosted by the Netherlands Presidency this week.
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Following recent information that has come to light in Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) negotiations between the European Union (EU) and the United States (US) as well as in Mercosur discussions, CEJA would like to underline the importance of protection for those sensitive sectors in EU agriculture which are most at risk in trade agreements, in particular the livestock sector, as well as the protection of European geographical indications (GIs).
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At a major Conference held in Brussels today, Copa and Cogeca underlined the benefits of crop-based biofuels in terms of cutting greenhouse gas emissions in Europe, creating jobs, reducing the EU’s protein deficit in animal feed, improving energy security and outlined key elements of future policy post 2020.
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"The blossoming in the valley began in early April and is now over. It was a bit earlier than usual, by about six days. However, there is still blossoming in the apple orchards located at around 800m a.s.l. The weather was mild and conducive to fertilisation and the blossoming was very abundant this year.” Wolfang Drahorad, agronomist and teaching assistant at the University of Bolzano’s Faculty of Science and Technology, describes a very positive situation, in late spring, in the apple orchards of South Tyrol.
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The DLG-Feldtage 2016 will again offer live machinery demonstrations on all three days of the exhibition, and new this year will be individual demonstrations performed by exhibitors on three key topics.
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Syngenta announced today the appointment of J. Erik Fyrwald, currently President and CEO of the U.S. chemistry distribution company Univar Inc., as Chief Executive Officer effective June 1. Erik succeeds John Ramsay who has been ad interim CEO since November 2015.
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The lists of substances which can be used in EU organic farming have been amended to include 39 new products.
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The 14th International Field Robot Event (FRE) will take place during the 2016 DLG-Feldtage, which will be held from 14 to 16 June at Maria Burghausen in Hassfurt (Lower Franconia), Germany.
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The EU farm group Copa released in Brussels today a Strategic vision to improve the status of women farmers and close the gender equality gap
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CEJA has called on the EU institutions to make new budget available to fund the implementation of Article 222, which will enable producer organisations, interbranch organisations and cooperatives to establish voluntary agreements on production.
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Speaking in Brussels, Chairwoman of the Women’s Committee of COPA, Willemien Koning-Hoeve, said “Even though women have higher educational qualifications, the payment gap, the pension gap and the gap in farm ownership are real. In general, the pension gap stands at 41.1% and in rural areas is sometimes 10% higher. Women represent 29% of the total farm managers and they tend to have farms 40% smaller than men”.
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Farm organisation & agri-cooperative Presidents from across Europe unite to warn of unprecedented crisis hitting EU agricultural markets & stress future CAP must ensure competitivity
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The two leading exhibition organizers in livestock and agricultural machinery today announced a joint-venture agreement to launch a new exhibition, AGRITECHNICA ASIA, 15 – 17 March 2017 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Asian edition of AGRITECHNICA, the world’s largest trade fair for agricultural machinery and equipment, is set to be the first agricultural exhibition that covers all of Asia by focusing on Asia’s largest agricultural buyers from across the region.
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Copa & Cogeca launched a major campaign in Brussels today to underline the multiple benefits of the EU livestock sector and meat for growth & jobs, vibrant rural areas, a balanced diet and to show the high production standards EU farmers meet.
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At their spring Members' Assembly in Brussels, EMB milk producers appointed the existing Executive Committee to another term in office. This is an important signal - especially in light of the difficult market situation - for the EMB to consistently keep at its efforts in favour of farmers.
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Today, the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-Biotech Applications (ISAAA) released its annual report detailing the adoption of biotech crops, “20th Anniversary of the Global Commercialization of Biotech Crops (1996-2015) and Biotech Crop Highlights in 2015,” showcasing the global increase in biotech hectarage from 1.7 million hectares in 1996 to 179.7 million hectares in 2015. This 100-fold increase in just 20 years makes biotechnology the fastest adopted crop technology in recent times, reflecting farmer satisfaction with biotech crops.
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EU agri-food exports in February 2016 were worth €10.2 billion, which is well above export values in January 2016 and even slightly above exports in February 2015, according to the latest monthly statistical report.
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Working to build greater prosperity for disadvantaged and vulnerable rural people in developing countries around the world, the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) signed an agreement today to reinforce and expand cooperation between the two organisations.
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Phil Hogan, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, will visit China and Japan accompanied by a business delegation of more than 60 European agri-food executives from 15 Member States representing key sectors in EU trade with the two countries.
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In an exclusive interview with ViEUws, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme Achim Steiner, talks to AGRA FACTS journalist Rose O’Donovan about the urgent need to reinvent the agricultural economy. He insists that sustainable agriculture and food security are at the heart of the seventeen UN Sustainable Development Goals adopted by world leaders in New York last September. Steiner makes a case for a “revolution in thinking” as the current food and farming system has been “ruinous” in many parts of the world in ecological and social terms.
Finally, he echoes the words of UN Special Advisor Amina Mohammed – seen as one of the key architects of the post-2015 development agenda – that these ambitious and universal plans must leave nobody behind.
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Europatat and Freshfel Europe will jointly celebrate their first common annual meeting on 2 June 2016 in Brussels.
Adhering to the European Commission work programme 2016, the common conference will be held under the theme “Not business as usual”. The conference will review the upcoming challenges and opportunities for both sectors in light of a complex political and business environment.
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New EU rules providing the opportunity for farmers to jointly plan milk production have now been finalised and published in the Official Journal today.
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Copa & Cogeca welcomed today serious concerns expressed by EU Farm Ministers about the bad EU agriculture market situation and of any attempt by the EU to make the situation worse by negotiating unfair trade concessions on agriculture in the free trade talks with the Latin American Trade bloc Mercosur.
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A new single framework for school schemes distributing fruits, vegetables and milk to schoolchildren will be operational as from August 2017 following today's decision by Agriculture Ministers in the Council meeting in Luxembourg.
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The European Commission’s system for assessing how EU measures under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) support farmers’ incomes is not well-enough designed and has significant limitations, according to a new report from the European Court of Auditors. As a result, there is no adequate data demonstrating that the support for farmers’ incomes under the CAP makes an effective and efficient contribution to its objectives, say the auditors.
Between 2014 and 2020, about €270 billion – a third of the EU budget – will go directly or indirectly towards supporting farmers’ incomes. This is intended contribute to viable food production throughout the EU and help farmers maintain fair living standards.
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The “Pilot Project: Exchange programmes for young farmers” has been commissioned by the European Commission, Directorate-General for Agriculture and Rural Development (DG AGRI) to identify the needs of young farmers, get an overview of the existing exchange schemes for young farmers and develop a guide to establish or improve exchange schemes for young farmers (DG AGRI, Tender No AGRI-2012-Eval-03). The study has been implemented by Ecorys in cooperation with LEI and Aequator Groen & Ruimte in 2014-2015.
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The European Union and Chile have concluded negotiations on an agreement on trade in organic products. Through this agreement, the EU and Chile will mutually recognise the equivalence of their organic production rules and control system and ensure a high level of respect of the principle of organic production.
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Organic agriculture is a production system that sustains the health of soils, ecosystems and people.
It relies on ecological processes, biodiversity and cycles adapted to local conditions, rather than the use of inputs with adverse effects. Organic agriculture combines tradition, innovation and science to benefit the shared environment and promote fair relationships and a good quality of life for all involved.
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Labour costs in the EU - Hourly labour costs ranged from €4.1 to €41.3 across the EU Member States in 2015; Lowest in Bulgaria and Romania, highest in Denmark and Belgium
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Last Wednesday Agrico was awarded the Ambassadors’ Prize 2016. The award was announced during the Ambassadors’ Conference in The Hague. The Ambassadors’ Prize is awarded every two years to the company that exports sustainably, or operates a company abroad, in the most outstanding way.
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Commissioner for Health and Food Safety Vytenis Andriukaitis welcomes adoption of Animal Health Law, another weapon in the fight against animal diseases and antimicrobial resistance
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In an exclusive interview with ViEUws, EU Farm Commissioner Phil Hogan talks to AGRA FACTS journalist Rose O’Donovan about the role of European farmers in implementing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The EU’s Farm chief also responds to questions on the current agricultural crisis and proposed measures to tackle oversupply on the market.
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Today the European Commission adopted a €30 million programme to provide 350,000 Syrian children with drinking milk, as part of the already substantial aid provided by the EU to those in need as a consequence of the crisis in the region.
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In the wake of increasing market volatility and adverse weather conditions, newly re-elected Chairwoman of Copa and Cogeca Working Party Paola Grossi said a top priority is to put more focus on measures, such as insurance, to help protect farmers against risks.
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EU agri-food exports rose slightly in January 2016 relative to January 2015 to €9.3 billion, according to the latest monthly statistical report.
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"This is a package of measures which can have a material and positive impact on European agricultural markets and it should now be given the chance to succeed."
The European Commission is announcing today an additional package of exceptional measures using all the tools made available in the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) to support EU farmers while safeguarding the EU internal market.
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With thousands of farmers protesting across Europe, Copa and Cogeca outline measures to solve EU agriculture crisis & tell EU Farm Ministers to act Monday
With thousands of farmers protesting across Europe hit by the bad situation on EU agricultural markets, Copa and Cogeca outline measures to solve the crisis and tell EU Farm Ministers to act when they meet Monday.
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Many uncertainties question the way we produce, process and consume food. We are challenged to reduce the climate footprint of our food systems. Citizens and consumers are demanding more information on how food is produced, while food systems have to remain competitive on quality and costs in an open world. Business as usual is not an option, which is why research and innovation (R&I) is so crucial in helping future food security and competiveness.
European farming and agro-food systems need knowledge from many different sources to compete with quality products and services in a globalised world. New knowledge is generated by farmers, researchers, companies and citizens. The old ‘linear’ model of technology transfer (from scientists to the users) is gradually being replaced by an interactive model of systems which integrates knowledge production, adaptation, advice and education. Using an open innovation approach provides opportunities to leverage research into a new setting. It was on this basis that the Standing Committee on Agricultural Research (SCAR) began working on Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems (AKIS) in the SCAR-AKIS Strategic Working Group in 2010.
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Over 3 000 Finnish farmers with 500 tractors demonstrate today in front of Finnish government building – Farmers demand rapid EU- and national measures to improve their catastrophic financial situation
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Ahead of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting on 14 March 2016 where Member States will discuss potential solutions to the current EU agricultural market crisis, CEJA would like to underline the urgency and importance of a Council agreement on necessary and appropriate action to address the crisis. It is essential that measures are put in place as soon as possible to help struggling farmers across Europe who are suffering from substantial cash-flow difficulties, many of them young farmers who are being hit particularly hard by this market turmoil as they are more vulnerable to such shocks.
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The Commission has approved today the addition of two new products to the register of Protected Geographical Indications (PGI).
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On International Women’s Day, Copa underlined the big contribution women make to the EU agriculture sector, accounting for 45% of the agricultural labour force, but warned that conditions for women in rural areas must be stepped up.
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La Commission européenne a approuvé la demande d'enregistrement de deux nouveaux produits dans le registre des indications géographiques protégées (IGP).
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A growing number of pollinator species worldwide are being driven toward extinction by diverse pressures, many of them human-made, threatening millions of livelihoods and hundreds of billions of dollars worth of food supplies, according to the first global assessment of pollinators.
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The United States announced that it will lift its ban on beef from the Netherlands.
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The European Commission decided today to appoint Ms Veronique Wasbauer to the position of Principal Adviser in the Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety (DG SANTE), and to second her, for a period of four years, to the function of Director of the Consumers, Health, Agriculture and Food Executive Agency (CHAFEA).
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The latest global data on organic farming will be presented by the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL) and IFOAM – Organics International at the BIOFACH fair 2016 in Nuremberg. The statistics yearbook “The World of Organic Agriculture” will be launched on Wednesday, February 10, 2016, from 4.30 to 5.45 pm in Room Istanbul, NCC East.
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The Commission has approved the addition of a new product to the register of Protected Designations of Origin (PDOs).
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Global improvements in grassland management could see grasslands taking on a significantly more important role in food production. Better management would increase the production of meat and milk and prevent the need for additional feed for grazing livestock – feed in the form of grain crops that could otherwise be available for human consumption.
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The Commission has today approved the addition of a new Croatian product to the register of Protected Geographical Indications (PGIs). ‘
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Bayer has acquired the plant health diagnosis and infection level warning service provider proPlant Gesellschaft für Agrar- und Umweltinformatik mbH. The acquisition continues the expansion of Bayer’s activities in the field of agricultural digitalization. The company based in Münster in North-Rhine Westphalia, Germany, was originally established as a spin-off by employees of the Institute for Geoinformatics at Münster University. It will operate as Bayer Digital Farming GmbH in the future.
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As from 2 February 2016, Japan lifted its long-term ban on Danish beef based on an alleged risk of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE). The decision on products from Denmark follows an earlier opening of the Japanese market to beef products from France, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Poland.
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The Commission has today approved the addition of a new German product to the register of Protected Geographical Indications (PGIs).
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The Commission has approved today the addition of two new products to the register of Protected Geographical Indications (PGIs).
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The European Commission and the government of Colombia announced today the start of negotiations towards a bilateral agreement on trade in organic products.
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More than 270 companies registered – About 25,000 visitors expected – Held from 14 to 16 June 2016 at the estate of Mariaburghausen in Haßfurt (Bavaria).
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La Commission européenne a ouvert aujourd'hui les premiers appels à propositions pour la promotion des produits agricoles de l'Union Européenne.
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Seven Flamish potato suppliers are looking forward to meet their customers at Fruitlogistica: Bart's Potato Company, Binst Breeding & Selection, Dauchy, De Aardappelhoeve, Pomuni, RTL Patat and Warnez
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Syngenta today announced that ChemChina has offered to acquire the company at US$ 465 per ordinary share plus a special dividend of CHF 5 to be paid conditional upon and prior to closing.
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The Europatat Congress 2016 will take place in Brussels (Belgium) on 1 & 2 June 2016.
Under the slogan “Not business as usual”, the Congress will focus on discovering ways for business to manage change in an uncertain world to remain successful.
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Copa and Cogeca underlined the key role of research and innovation in a viable EU agriculture sector and the need for farmers and agri-cooperatives to play a key role in the process right from the start at a major Conference this week.
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After a slight decrease in October 2015, EU agri-food exports in November 2015 picked up again and achieved a value of €10.9 billion, thus exceeding the value of previous years for the same month by about €500 million.
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CEJA, the European Council of Young Farmers, organised a dinner debate entitled “CEJA – Inspiring the Future of our Industry” yesterday evening hosted by Vice-President of the European Parliament and Member of the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development (COMAGRI), Mairead McGuinness. The debate featured a number of MEPs from across the Union including prominent COMAGRI members Ulrike Müller and Marijana Petir engaging directly with leading young farmer delegates from their own Member States and regions. Discussions were centered on young farmers and the importance of CEJA taking a leading role in the long road to CAP 2020.
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Copa and Cogeca met with senior EU Commission officials this week to underline the low incomes facing EU beef producers and to warn against the possibility of relaunching the free trade talks with the Latin American trade bloc Mercosur and, saying it would have a catastrophic effect on the EU agriculture sector, especially the beef sector. Other on-going bilateral free trade negotiations and their impact on the beef sector were also raised.
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Speech by Phil Hogan, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development at the Extraordinary Meeting of COMAGRI, Strasbourg 18 January 2016
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EU Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Phil Hogan welcomes the announcement on the improved access to the Indian market for EU apple exports:
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This guide describes the practical application of FAO’s ‘Save and Grow’ model of sustainable crop production intensification to the world’s key food security crops: maize, rice and wheat. With examples from Africa, Asia and Latin America, it shows how ecosystem-based farming systems are helping smallholder farmers to boost cereal yields, strengthen their livelihoods, reduce pressure on the environment, and build resilience to climate change. The guide will be a valuable reference for policymakers and development practitioners during the global transition to sustainable food and agriculture.
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In line with the ongoing efforts to simplify the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), Commissioner Hogan presented on Monday evening his latest proposals to the members of the Agriculture and Rural Development committee of the European Parliament, in Strasbourg.
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Statement by EU Health and Food Safety Commissioner Andriukaitis, Trade Commissioner Malmström and Agriculture Commissioner Hogan
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Mr Phil Hogan, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, attends the 81st International Green Week (IGW) opening today in Berlin.
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The European Commission has today formally confirmed the names of the experts who will participate in the new Agricultural Markets Task Force, ahead of the first meeting of this expert group taking place in Brussels tomorrow (13 January).
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Copa and Cogeca underlined the importance of innovation in the EU agriculture sector to remain competitive and sustainable in order to meet growing world food demand using limited resources at a major event organized by Politico in Brussels today.
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According to a new Eurobarometer survey published today, there is a growing awareness among Europeans of the contribution of the EU's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) to the European Commission's top priorities, with over 80% of the respondents considering the role of the CAP "very or fairly important" for stimulating jobs and growth and for supporting the role of the farmer in the food chain.
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The European Commission has confirmed they have removed the chicken rinse item from today’s agenda. We are investigating the reasons for postponing the discussion on peroxyacetic acid.
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New rules opening Private Storage Aid in the pigmeat sector have entered into force today 4 January.
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Canada's Federal Agriculture Minister Lawrence MacAulay and Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Development Minister Ron Kostyshyn have announced an investment of nearly $380,000 for the McCain Foods potato processing plant in Carberry to increase efficiency, reduce waste and support the sustainable growth of Manitoba’s potato industry.
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In the context of the simplification of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), the European Commission has today launched a 12-week public consultation on the "Greening" measures of the CAP that were introduced in the 2013 CAP Reform.
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Tractors and machinery for agriculture and forestry are an important market, with more than 450 different types of machines manufactured worldwide, including agricultural and forestry tractors, soil working machinery and machines for seeding, crop care and harvesting.
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EU ministers have reached an agreement on fishing opportunities for 2016 in the Atlantic, North Sea and Black Sea, following discussions at the Agriculture and Fisheries Council on 14 and 15 December.
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Reacting to Ministers talks, Copa and Cogeca urge EU negotiators to quickly agree EU organic farming review, welcome private storage aid for pork & deal on school schemes & bioeconomy progress
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EU Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Karmenu Vella will present the Commission's proposals for fixing fishing opportunities for 2016 for the Atlantic, North Sea and Black Sea to the Agriculture and Fisheries Council on 14-15 December.
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Worth €99.6 billion for 2014-2020, all 118 EU Rural Development Programmes for 2014-2020 are now ready to roll.
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New Copa and Cogeca Task Force debated in Brussels this week the importance of technology in modern farming - big data and precision farming – to improve farmers returns .
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Danone and Veolia today announced an innovative strategic partnership focusing on the water cycle, waste management, sustainable agriculture and energy efficiency, to meet the challenge of climate change. Creating economic, social and environmental value, this global alliance is one of a kind. It is part of Danone’s new climate policy, which calls for zero net carbon emissions by 2050 for operations within its direct and shared scope of responsibility.
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Copa-Cogeca Secretary-General Pekka Pesonen said “Farmers play a vital role in protecting soils and it is in their interest to keep them healthy in order to enhance soil fertility and yields. Food Production and Environmental Protectionare not competing but instead complementing each other. It is important for farmers to use good soil management practices to improve soil fertility. By cutting down on intensive tillage for example soil health will be improved a lot. Crops and forests also sequestrate carbon and need to be included in the soil carbon cycle in order to acknowledge agricultures contribution to fighting climate change”.
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The European Technology Platform ‘Plants for the Future’ (Plant ETP) in collaboration with Mr Jasenko Selimović and Mrs Anthea McIntyre, both Members of the European Parliament (EP), organised the first event of a series of workshops “Sustainable growth: Unlocking the potential of plants”. This series of workshops follows a report by former MEP Marit Paulsen on “Plant breeding: what options to increase quality and yields” published last year.
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Secretary Vilsack, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, I am very pleased that so many of you have been able to join us this morning. After the problems that we have seen in the past couple of weeks, I'm pleased to see that we are getting back to business as usual. I'm particularly pleased that Secretary Vilsack is also with us and I very much look forward to hearing what he has to say about the prospects for the agri-food sector and, of course, his view on the conditions for success in the ongoing TTIP negotiations.
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This two-day high-level event will focus on the state of agriculture, and the global issues which lie ahead.
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The Guidelines aim to support European farmers by clarifying how they can, under certain conditions, cooperate to jointly sell olive oil, beef and veal, and arable crops without breaching EU competition rules. These markets are worth more than €80 billion annually.
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While area used for agriculture remained stable, over 1 out of 4 farms disappeared between 2003 and 2013 in the EU, according to information published by Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union.
In the European Union (EU), there were 10.8 million farms in 2013 working 174.6 million hectares of land (the utilised agricultural area).
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Organised by ARVALIS ‒ Institut du végétal, with support from the potato industry as a whole, the 11th POTATOEUROPE event will take place on 14 and 15 September 2016, in Villers-Saint-Christophe, Aisne, France. The main attraction of this international event will be the dynamic equipment demonstrations, the commercial village and the technical workshops on potato production.
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Precision agriculture is already the norm for many arable farms. Modern technological advancements like guidance systems and positioning technology are helping us get the most out of the land.
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Whether soil erosion, water shortage or hail damage – in particular the cultivation of crops such as grapes, apples and asparagus suffers from the effects of climate change. However, new opportunities such as intelligent irrigation or "smart breeding" and proven equipment such as hail protection nets help farmers to optimally protect their crops. With over 600 international exhibitors and around 36,000 visitors from Germany and abroad, INTERVITIS INTERFRUCTA HORTITECHNICA 2016 in Stuttgart will promote the interdisciplinary exchange of ideas and opinions and dialogue between science and practical application for the benefit of protection against climate change.
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The European Commission has today published a regulation to reimburse € 410 million to European farmers.
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Nw Copa and Cogeca figures for this years’ olive oil harvest were released by Copa and Cogeca olive oil working party this week showing a good harvest but serious concerns were expressed about plans to raise significantly duty free import quotas for Tunisian olive oil
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Commission co-finances under LIFE programme projects supporting the environment, nature and a more sustainable economy.
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The European Commission is making funds available to boost research into Xylella fastidiosa, a pathogenic bacterium that has been found on olive trees and other plants in southern Italy and on ornamental plants in southern France and Corsica.
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On occasion of its Executive Committee meeting EFFAT, the European Federation of Food Agriculture and Tourism Trade Unions, adopted its position calling for a prompt and ambitious legally binding agreement on climate change to preserve quality jobs in Tourism and Agriculture.
In the run up to the UN International Climate Negotiators’ meeting in Paris for COP 21 scheduled from 30 November to 11 December 2015, EFFAT exposes the threats that climate change poses to the preservation of sustainable jobs in agriculture and tourism.
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Copa and Cogeca underline need to step up innovation and invest in new technologies to unleash potential of biomass from EU agriculture and forestry sectors at major workshop
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The dashboards below give an overview of recent developments in the main agricultural markets. They are regularly updated.
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'Once again, Agritechnica 2015 has impressively cemented its lead position as the benchmark international trade fair for agricultural machinery and farming. With some 2,907 exhibitors, around 450,000 visitors – including more than 100,000 from overseas – Agritechnica has matched its figures from 2013.'
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EU agricultural market situation still critical and measures needed to alleviate pressure on EU pigmeat and dairy sectors and to simplify the CAP, Copa and Cogeca Presidents tell EU Farm Ministers
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Geopa-Copa re-elected C.-Botterman from Belgium as President of the EU employers group today, and underlined the need to tackle undeclared work and cut red tape to ensure regular work in agriculture
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Copa and Cogeca underline challenges and opportunities facing EU sheep meat sector at an EU reflections group and outline measures to benefit the sector
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Two and a half months after fending off a $46 billion bid from Monsanto Co., Switzerland’s Syngenta AG is back in play -- this time from China.
China National Chemical Corp. is in talks to buy the pesticide maker in what would be the largest acquisition ever by a Chinese company, people with knowledge of the matter said. Syngenta shares gained the most in six months.
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The Commission has approved 33 new programmes to promote agricultural products. Worth €108 million, these programmes will contribute to opening new markets for EU products and to increasing consumption within the EU.
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Hanover, Germany, 12th November, 2015 - The reputation of Agritechnica as the meeting place for agricultural professionals from around the world is undisputed, but with more than 20,000 young farmers attending in 2013, it is also an important date in the calendar for the people that represent the future of the industry.
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2014, a record-breaking year! According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), for the first time in one year, 2.54 billion tons of cereals were harvested in 2014. The favourable weather conditions in Europe and an unprecedented maize harvest in the United States explain this impressive figure. This record gives a precious indication on the major issue for global agriculture. While easy to state, it is truly challenging to implement: better feeding the planet!
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New Holland reaps a prestigious award at Agritechnica 2015: the brand new T7.315 tractor was crowned with the coveted “Machine of the Year” 2016 in the L category , title bestowed by a jury of 19 journalists representing leading European agricultural publications. The machine was rewarded for its technical innovation and the benefits it brings to customers, with selection criteria focusing on innovative features, performance, productivity, cost of operation, ease of use and operator comfort.
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Agritechnica 2015, the world’s leading forum for the future of the agricultural sector, is celebrating the thirtieth year since it started with record exhibitor participation. As Dr. Reinhard Grandke, Chief Executive Officer of the organizer DLG (Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft – German Agricultural Society), told the international press, up to and including Saturday, 14 November 2015, the Fairgrounds in Hanover will be the meeting place and forum for the world’s agricultural sector. “With more than 2,900 exhibitors from 52 countries we have reached a new record level”, said the DLG CEO. “The Fairgrounds are fully booked.” Agritechnica is thus impressively continuing its success story and further consolidating its leading position as the international trade fair for agricultural machinery and equipment and the agricultural sector.
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Today, Commissioners Carlos Moedas, responsible for Research, Science and Innovation and Phil Hogan, responsible for Agriculture delivered keynote speeches at the Bioeconomy Forum in Brussels which addresses the need to strengthen the transition from a fossil-based to a bio-based economy in Europe.
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The new FR Forage Cruiser self-propelled forage harvesters deliver consistently high chop quality and industry-leading crop processing efficiency. This exceptional productivity is further enhanced by the powerful and fuel efficient performance of the new engines – with horsepower ranging from 476 to 775 – and ECOBlue™ Hi-eSCR Tier 4B technology, with the top model retaining the 20.1 litre 824hp engine. The new five-model line-up offers superior comfort in the spacious flagship cab, enabling operators to make the most of the forage harvester’s exceptional productivity with its ergonomic layout and intuitive automation.
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NNew Holland Agriculture launches the new generation CX Series of super conventional combines – 2 five-strawwalker and 4 six-strawwalker models that set new standards of operator comfort, grain and straw quality, productivity and versatility while preserving the soil with lower compaction. The CX range has been expanded with the new CX8.85 450hp six-strawwalker model with a 12,500 litre grain tank. At the top of the range, the flagship CX8.90 is the highest capacity conventional combine in the world and, with its 360 kW (490 hp), vast 12,500 litre grain tank and state-of-the-art cleaning systems, it delivers threshing and separation efficiency combined with a cleaning performance without equal.
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Deere & Company said today it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Monosem, the European market leader in precision planters. The purchase includes the company's four facilities in France and two in the United States.
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Every two years, many thousands of international farmers visit Agritechnica exhibiting which takes place in Hanover, Germany every two years. In 2013, Brazilian farmer Richard Dijkstra made his first visit to the event, and it is with a contagious enthusiasm that he describes his experience.
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As a recognized international event for agricultural professionals, Agritechnica, which takes place at Hanover’s exhibition grounds every two years, can proudly boast a high level of visitors from outside Germany. Nearly a quarter of the 450,000 who attended in 2013 came from outside the country, and they included Ukrainian farmer Gennadii Smolniuk, who has become a regular at the event.
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According to national declarations, twelve Member States – Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Ireland, Spain, Italy, Cyprus, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Austria and Poland - exceeded their national milk quotas for deliveries in the 2014/2015 quota year by a total of 2 938 000 tonnes, and must therefore pay a surplus levy totalling roughly € 818 million.
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Copa and Cogeca warned EU Farm Ministers against patenting plant traits in the EU agriculture sector at a high-level meeting today, saying it would cause less competition and higher costs the seed market.
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The Commission has approved the addition of two new products to the register of Protected Geographical Indications (PGIs).
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Volatile compounds and extrafloral nectar are common defenses of wild plants; however, in crops they bear an as-yet underused potential for biological control of pests and diseases. Odor emission and nectar secretion are multigene traits in wild plants, and thus form difficult targets for breeding. Furthermore, domestication has changed the capacity of crops to express these traits. We propose that breeding crops for an enhanced capacity for tritrophic interactions and volatile-mediated direct resistance to herbivores and pathogens can contribute to environmentally-friendly and sustainable agriculture. Natural plant volatiles with antifungal or repellent properties can serve as direct resistance agents. In addition, volatiles mediating tritrophic interactions can be combined with nectar-based food rewards for carnivores to boost indirect plant defense.
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The Canadian Government has decided to re-open its market to the European producers of 19 Member States of beef and meat from other ruminants. The Canadian market has been closed to all EU beef since 1996, when Canada introduced import restrictions on meat from ruminants on the basis of BSE concerns. On the occasion of the re-opening of Canada's market, EU Health and Food Safety Commissioner Andriukaitis, Trade Commissioner Malmström and Agriculture Commissioner Hogan stated: "We welcome the decision by the Canadian Government to re-open Canada's market for imports of European beef from 19 EU Member States.
It will provide a welcome boost to Europe's beef producers and exporters, particularly as it comes at a time when farmers across the EU are going through a particularly difficult period."
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As a result of its Scientific Programme at EXPO 2015, the EU is today making available a set of expert recommendations on the role of science and research in improving food and nutrition security, which has been the topic of this year's Universal Exhibition.
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Agritechnica, the world’s largest and most innovative international agri-machinery exhibition is back in Hanover again in November 2015, with hundreds of thousands of visitors already preparing to attend this exciting “must-see” farming extravaganza.
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A simpler more flexible Common Agricultural Policy will reduce the impact of the volatility of the market and revitalise rural economies EU local and regional leaders have said. In its report adopted today, the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) welcomed EU plans to reduce the administrative burden of the CAP which it agrees could boost the sector and help redress rural-urban inequality.
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New initiatives to encourage healthy eating habits at an early age and to bring consumers back in touch with nature presented at Copa and Cogeca’s Seminar on EU Farmers & Agri-Cooperatives contribution to a healthier lifestyle.
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Copa and Cogeca welcomed today European Parliament Environment Committees’ outright rejection of the EU Commission proposal which lets member states decide whether or not to authorise the use of genetically modified food or feed in their countries.
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Delegates from the136 member nations of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) have given their approval to set up an international information gateway for the genetic data of food crop seeds.
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In 2016 European producers will benefit from programmes worth €111 million to find new markets and promote consumption outside and inside the EU. Promotion is a key part of the measures presented by the Commission to support farmers.
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Cogeca presented in Brussels today a report to MEPs showing that agri-cooperatives are resilient in times of crisis and help improve farmers livelihoods. This is demonstrated by the fact that the top 100 agri-cooperatives in the EU increased their turnover by 14% in 2013, compared to 2012.
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As part of the implementation of the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement, the Ukrainian government has an ambitious reform agenda that aims to overcome the political and economic crisis, and that lays the foundations for sustainable economic development.
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USDA Foreign Agricultural Service regularly reports on various agricultural topics around the world. In GAIN report CH15036 published in September 2015, the production of potatoes and potato products in China as well as imports and exports are highlighted.
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The first edition of the "new phase" of Macfrut, concluded last Friday at the Rimini Expo Centre, ended with a bang. Here are the numbers: 39,000 people attended the trade fair of the Italian fruit and vegetable sector, the highest number the event organised by Cesena Fiera has ever reached in 32 years.
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“Together with Celcaa, Copa and Cogeca underlined the importance of trade for agriculture and the need for fair rules to keep a dynamic market at a 2015 WTO public forum in Geneva today.
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EU Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Phil Hogan will present the Multi Annual implementation Plan (MAP) of the EU Forest Strategy to the European Parliament Agriculture Committee in Strasbourg this evening.
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At a major Awards Ceremony held in European Parliament today hosted by MEP Tibor Szanyi, Copa and Cogeca awarded first prize to a French project from the region of Aisne for good agricultural practices vis-à-vis pollinators.
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Together with key partner organisations, Copa and Cogeca showcased at Expo Milano under the auspices of the Italian Ministry of Education a new on-line Farm Inc project designed to help farmers better market and brand their produce.
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In this exclusive interview for viEUws, EU Agriculture Commissioner Phil Hogan outlines the details of a ‎€500 million aid package for farmers in response to falling dairy and pork prices, describes plans to combat unfair trading practices and says an expert group will look at new instruments to tackle price volatility. AGRA FACTS journalist Ed Bray has the story.
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The mid-term review of EU biodiversity strategy shows progress in many areas, but highlights the need for greater effort by Member States on implementation to halt biodiversity loss by 2020.
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FAO and the European Agricultural Machinery Industry Association CEMA, an international non-profit organisation, today forged a new partnership that aims to promote wider use of sustainable agricultural mechanization in developing countries.
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The first elements of the special aid package for EU farmers worth €500 million, announced in early September, have now been adopted by the European Commission.
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The Commission has today approved the addition of one new product from the Netherlands to the register of Traditional Speciality Guaranteed (TSGs).
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Copa and Cogeca called for realistic and achievable targets to be included in Review of EU Air Quality Policy at high-level event today, warning it will hit the EU livestock sector hard
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From 10 to 13 May 2016, Hall 1 of Fira de Barcelona’s Gran Via Exhibition Centre will be hosting the Livestock Forum, an international event intended to improve livestock production and animal health. This initiative aims to offer a cross-cutting and up-to-date overview of modern technologies and processes to produce safe and secure foodstuffs of animal origin for mass consumption. The Livestock Forum fills a gap in the calendar of trade fairs and congresses dedicated to livestock and is the first forum designed to provide a global response to the challenges facing this sector.
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Copa elected a new President Martin Merrild from Denmark today to lead European farmers for the next two years, with top priorities including a cut in red tape and better prices for farmers
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The official inauguration of the 32nd edition of Macfrut, organised by Cesena Fiera and hosted at the Rimini Expo Centre for the first time, took place with great optimism and enthusiasm in facing future challenges.
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To unleash the potential of the advanced European farm and construction equipment sectors and maintain their presence and growth in Europe, industry leaders call on EU policy makers to adopt a ‘smart’ approach to EU regulation, and open up funds from the Common Agriculture Policy and the European Investment Fund (‘Juncker Plan’).
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Copa and Cogeca confirm fall in EU cereals and oilseeds production this year partly due to bad weather and new CAP and express serious concerns over farmers cash flow problems
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The European Commission and Iceland initialled this Thursday two agreements on the further liberalisation of trade in agricultural products and foodstuffs and one on the protection of Geographical Indications (GIs).
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Native soils are thought to take up more of the greenhouse gas methane than land used for farming.
This study shows that, while agriculture can exert an adverse impact on soil methane uptake, the application of soil conditioners like compost may compensate for loss of the methane sink function. The researchers propose new land management strategies based on this finding.
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The European Commission has today adopted a legislative proposal offering additional temporary access for Tunisian olive oil to the EU market to help support Tunisia's recovery in the difficult period being faced by the country.
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Commissioner Phil Hogan presented today to EU Agriculture Ministers the details of the €500 million support package announced last week to support European farmers.
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DLG, organizer of the world’s largest trade fair for agricultural machinery and equipment, Agritechnica, being held from 10 to 14 November 2015 (Preview Days on 8 and 9 November), reports outstanding registration figures. Around 2,800 exhibitors from 52 countries will be presenting their innovations and current further developments at the Exhibition Grounds in Hanover. This means that the grounds are fully booked. All the leading companies in the industry will be represented with a complete range of products. With these exhibitor figures, Agritechnica impressively affirms its high attractiveness and its position as the internationally largest agricultural machinery show. The trade fair generates impetus and signals for the agricultural machinery markets worldwide.
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Growing crops with stacks of two or more resistance genes from closely related species, introduced into the crop via for instance genetic engineering, combined with the simultaneous introduction of resistance management, can ensure the long-term resistance of these plants to economically significant and aggressive diseases.
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Copa and Cogeca regreted today that member states did not agree to raise the EU milk intervention price to reflect rising production costs or take sufficient measures to improve the drastic situation hitting the EU milk, pork, beef, fruit and vegetable markets.
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The European Committee of the Regions (CoR) has claimed that the European Commission has waited for the milk situation to become untenable for producers before announcing emergency measures.
The new package, it argues, will still not tackle structural problems in the EU's deregulated dairy sector.
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Copa-Cogeca held a high-level event at ExpoMilano this week underlining the importance of having an innovative Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) with new measures to drive the EU farm sector to provide quality nutritious food to feed a growing population.
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Weather is the most important factor in determining whether aflatoxin contamination will be a problem. Hot and dry weather is associated with increased aflatoxin production by the fungus from Aspergillus species. Extremely high temperatures and changing weather conditions (high humidity and drought, high precipitation, big difference between day and night temperatures) are ideal for aflatoxin formation.
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(DLG) Agritechnica is the world’s leading trade fair for farm machinery. This year’s show to be held at the Hanover exhibition centre from 10 to 14 November (Preview Days: 8 and 9 November) will feature numerous innovations. No fewer than 311 innovations have been registered with DLG (Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft / German Agricultural Society) which is organizing the fair. Applying the strictest criteria, an independent panel of experts appointed by DLG has conferred Gold Medals on five of these innovations and Silver Medals on a further 44:
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Parliament beefed up the Commission’s initial proposal to ban animal cloning to include the cloning of all farm animals, their descendants and products derived from them, including imports into the EU, in a vote on Tuesday.
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Copa and Cogeca welcome some positive additions to the new EU Commission aid package agreed by EU Farm Ministers last night but warn it is still far from sufficient to help solve EU farmers problems.
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Earlier today, CEJA launched its Young Farmer Manifesto to young farmers, stakeholders and members of the press alongside the CEJA General Assembly 2015 taking place at EXPO 2015 in Milan, Italy. The Manifesto focuses on policy issues relevant to young farmers in order to raise awareness of the concerns which need to be addressed for them to help secure the future of EU agriculture.
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The Commission is announcing today a comprehensive support package worth €500 million, recognising the difficulties being experienced by producers.
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Reacting to the new aid package proposed by the EU Commission today to help alleviate the drastic situation hitting EU farmers, Copa and Cogeca warned it is far from sufficient to have any noticeable impact.
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The agriculture committee on Thursday rejected the Commission's draft law that would give member states the power to restrict or prohibit the use of EU-approved GM food or feed on their territory.
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Over 6000 farmers and 2000 tractors after across the EU demonstrated in Brussels today to underline the drastic situation hitting EU agriculture, in particular dairy, pork, fruit and vegetable and beef producers, and call on the EU for action.
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Statement by EU Health and Food Safety Commissioner Vytenis Andriukaitis, Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmström and Agriculture and Rural Development Commissioner Phil Hogan on the opening of the US market for imports of meat and meat products from Lithuania
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Speech during the kick-off meeting on the first of september 2015 in the Town hall of Tournai
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WHAT: In response to the drastic situation hitting EU dairy, pork, fruit and vegetable and beef producers, Copa and Cogeca are holding a mass demonstration outside EU Agriculture Ministers extraordinary meeting on September 7 to underline the unprecedented situation and demand action. There is an extremely difficult situation on the EU pigmeat, dairy, fruit and vegetable and beef markets, mainly as a result of the Russian export restrictions which shot the EU’s main export market overnight. Prices are below production costs in many countries and farm incomes low, forcing some out of business.
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185 exhibitors from 12 countrieshad been registered for this installment of PotatoEurope 2015 (2/3 sept. 2015 in Kaïn/Doornik-Belgium).
All segments from the potato industry are represented here, from warehousing, construction, plants and fertilizers to services, trade, irrigation, farm machinery and machine accessories to transport of seed potatoes, packing, processing and processing installations. The large tent is fully booked, but new exhibitors are signing up every week for the outside spots.
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In a scenario for the year 2050 described by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), a world population of around nine billion (i.e. one-third more than today) will need to be supplied with food, raw materials and energy.
To keep pace, food production must increase by about 70 percent – a massive challenge that is aggravated by the impacts of climate change, water shortage and loss of farmland and that cannot be met without the use of hi-tech solutions in the entire agricultural sector.
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The European Commission has today formally extended until the end of June 2016 the safety net measures for the European fruit and vegetables sector.
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The Commission has today approved the addition of one new product to the register of Protected Designations of Origin (PDO) and two new products to the register of Protected Geographical Indications (PGI).
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Safety net measures for the European dairy, fruit and vegetables sectors will be extended into 2016. The European Commission is currently finalising the last details with a view to formally adopting the relevant legal decisions in the coming weeks as a matter of formality.
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Today the Commission has approved the addition of ‘Traditional Bramley Apple Pie Filling’ to the register of Traditional Specialties Guaranteed (TSGs).
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Copa and Cogeca highlighted the excellence of European quality produce at the Libramont Agricultural Fair Friday, but warned of the desperate market situation facing farmers, and called for a powerful export strategy.
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During a celebration of Agricultural Research Day on July 15, Alberto Maurer, the Head of Peru’s National Institute for Agricultural Innovation (INIA), accompanied by CIP Director General Barbara Wells and representatives of various other national and international institutions, announced that Peru will host the 10th World Potato Congress in 2018.
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Xylella fastidiosa (Wells et al.) is one of the most dangerous plant bacterium worldwide, causing a variety of diseases, with huge economic impact for agriculture. Since October 2013, a strain of this bacterium is spreading in Apulia (Italy). For the moment the first and only confirmed outbreak in the EU, affecting mainly olive groves.
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EU farmers and agri-cooperatives victim of international politics faced with Russian export ban: action vital, Copa and Cogeca warns at high-level conference
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On Wednesday 8 July the Province of Antwerp will be holding a prominent international forum in the Belgian Pavilion at Expo Milano 2015. A delegation of major players in the agricultural sector as well as leading research and test centers will be participating in order to promote a diverse range of high-quality products and innovative applications to visitors from around the world. The food industry is the economic motor of Belgium and probably the most important employer of the Province of Antwerp.
Besides being a world centre for the diamond trade and fashion, the province is also known as the vegetable basket of Europe. Located at the heart of Europe with a well-connected world harbor, Antwerp offers major assets for logistics and agriculture, going beyond provincial borders and fitting in perfectly with the theme of the expo ‘Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life’.
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Updated figures on trade of agri-food products between the European Union and the rest of the world in 2014 show that exports increased by 1.6% compared with 2013. These exports represent 7.2% of the total trade with third countries. The most exported product categories are alcoholic beverages (spirits, wine, etc) and wheat.
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viEUws has published an exclusive interview with EU Health & Food Safety Commissioner Vytenis Andriukaitis on food origin labels and endocrine disruptors.
EU Health & Food Safety Commissioner Vytenis Andriukaitis rejected an extension of mandatory country of origin labels and also acknowledged that the Commission was late in laying down new criteria for regulating endocrine disruptors
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For the first time, Bayer CropScience and the European Agricultural Machinery Association CEMA joined forces to demonstrate to a blend of representatives from the EU institutions and agriculture stakeholders how the latest farming technologies, including big data and the Internet of Things, are changing the face of agriculture. During two farm visits, organized on 29 and 30 June at “Hof ten Bosch” in Huldenberg, near Brussels, participants had the opportunity to experience first-hand how such technologies are helping farm operations to become smarter and more sustainable.
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This year marks the 10th anniversary of the General Food Law and the establishment of EFSA, a defining moment in food safety in which the European Union turned firmly towards science to point the way forward. To recognise this milestone, EFSA is today holding a joint conference with the European Commission’s Directorate General for Health and Consumers (DG SANCO) to review the Authority’s main achievements over the past decade and to look ahead to the challenges that it faces in the future.
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Copa and Cogeca warned against using patents in the EU agriculture sector at a seminar this week by the CPVO on the interface between patents and plant variety rights in Brussels , saying it will result in less products and varieties and additional costs .
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The Agri-Food Chain Coalition (AFCC)[i], representing 11 leading industry associations across the agri-food chain, today presented its joint declaration entitled: “Food for Thought: a vision for unlocking the potential of agriculture and food industries in the EU[1]” to the Agriculture Commissioner, Phil Hogan. The event took place on the first day of the Food & Drink Week[2] at the Universal Expo in Milan with the aim of showcasing the importance of science and innovation in the EU agri-food sector.
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Copa and Cogeca warned against using patents in the EU agriculture sector at a seminar today by the CPVO on the interface between patents and plant variety rights in Brussels , saying it will result in less products and varieties and additional costs .
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DuPont Pioneer (DuPont) today announced a technology license and research collaboration agreement with Vilnius University to further the technical and commercial utility of guided Cas9 genome editing technology. Under the agreement, DuPont receives an exclusive license to Vilnius University intellectual property for all commercial uses, including in agriculture. In addition, Vilnius University and DuPont have entered into a multi-year research collaboration to advance the development of the technology.
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Copa-Cogeca underlines huge potential of EU agriculture and agri-food sectors to boost growth and jobs in EU and outlines key areas where investment is needed to achieve this.
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Copa and Cogeca hold major Conference examining how best to collect and share data from farmers to cooperatives and others parts of food chain to increase efficiency and productivity
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The “Systems & Components” platform for suppliers kicks off at this year’s Agritechnica, the world’s largest trade fair for agricultural machinery and equipment, with the topic “Future Farming”. Some 800 exhibitors from about 40 countries out of a total of more than 2,400 companies will be exhibiting specifically in this sector at Agritechnica in Hanover from 10th to 14th November 2015 (preview days on 8th and 9th November). Visitors will be given a comprehensive insight into innovations, trends and developments from the segments of motors, hydraulics, axles, drive technology, cabs, electronics, spares and wear parts, as well as user-friendly software.
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Expo Visit BENELUX - Carlo Lambro, Brand President NH Agriculture,
welcoming speech
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Phil Hogan, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, is today and tomorrow (18-19 June 2015) in Edinburgh, Scotland at the occasion of the Royal Highland Show.
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Copa-Cogeca presented a strong statement to MEP Siekierski, Chairman of COM AGRI Committee, today at a high-level dairy event warning prices paid to producers do not even cover production costs and action is crucial to prevent them going of business.
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More than 2,400 exhibitors from 49 countries have already registered to participate in this year’s top international trade fair for agricultural machinery and equipment, Agritechnica, 2015, which features several exciting new ventures.
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TheThe Commission has approved the addition of a new product from Portugal to the register of Protected Geographical Indications (PGIs).
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The Commission has adopted a measure allowing Member States increased flexibility to use their Rural Development budget (EAFRD) commitments for the 2007-2013 Rural Development Programmes (RDPs).
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Copa and Cogeca underline key role EU agriculture and forestry sectors play in protecting nature and outline key issues to be dealt with in the assessment of EU habitats and birds legislation - the Fitness Check
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Phil Hogan, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, is today and tomorrow (4-5 June 2015) visiting for the first time the EXPO 2015 Universal Exhibition in Milan centred on the theme of global food and nutrition challenges ("Feeding the planet, energy for life").
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Measures to prevent and treat animal diseases such as avian flu or African swine fever were informally agreed by MEPs, the Latvian Presidency of the Council of Ministers and the European Commission on Monday. The draft EU law, on diseases that are transmissible among animals and potentially to humans too, will merge and update many scattered items of old legislation, so as to help prevent and halt new outbreaks and keep pace with scientific progress.
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Member States have to publish the list of beneficiaries of CAP payments as of today.The Common Agricultural Policy reform from 2013 introduced new rules on transparency on beneficiaries of the CAP. Each Member State's Ministry of Agriculture is in charge of publishing the required information, including the name of the beneficiary, amount and nature of the measure.
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Copa and Cogeca welcomed today the agreement made by EU negotiators on the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), stressing the Fund could play a vital role in enabling the EU agriculture sector to reach its potential to boost growth and jobs in EU rural areas
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The European Agricultural Machinery Association CEMA and Bayer CropScience are pleased to invite you to their first joint Farm Visit on “Precision Farming for Smart and Sustainable Agriculture" on 29 & 30 June 2015. This unique event will feature in-field demonstrations of equipment and technologies used by farmers to produce food sustainably and competitively.
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The European Commission has today approved a further 24 Rural Development Programmes (RDPs) aimed at improving the competitiveness of the EU farming sector, caring for the countryside and climate, and strengthening the economic and social fabric of rural communities in the period until 2020.
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New Holland has celebrated the success of its national network of agricultural dealers with the presentation of five awards in recognition of excellence in performance and service quality.
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The Sustainable Farm Pavilion is strategically located in a central position close to the Lake Arena and is immediately recognizable thanks to its striking architectural features. EXPO Milano 2015 will inaugurate a long season of exhibitions, events and conferences, that will attract millions of potential visitors to the New Holland Sustainable pavilion in the 184 days until 31 October, learning about the core role of agricultural mechanization in the food production supply chain and celebrating the role of farmers who use New Holland equipment and technology day after day to provide food all over the world, in strict respect for the environment and protecting the natural resources.
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Chairman of Copa-Cogecas Beef Working Party Jean Pierre Fleury called on the EU Commission this week to take urgent action to help improve the EU beef market situation, saying its crucial to find new market outlets for the produce.
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Together with Cooperatives Europe, Cogeca launched today a debate in European Parliament on the benefits of the 315 billion euros Juncker Investment plan, stressing that EU cooperatives and especially the agri-food, renewable energy and bio-economy sectors must be central to it.
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At the end of last week the Europatat Congress 2015 took place, organised in coordination by Europatat, the European Potato Trade Association, and DKHV, the German Potato Trading Association (Deutscher Kartoffelhandelsverband).
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The European Union will tomorrow officially kick-start its programme of activities at the EXPO 2015 Universal Exhibition in Milan. Centred on the theme of global food and nutrition challenges, EXPO is an opportunity for the EU to showcase its work in different food related areas and help raise awareness of this important global issue.
To ensure a lasting legacy, the main focus will be put on the role of science with dedicated events and a set of recommendations to be unveiled on 15 October, the day before World Food Day. The central role of science will also be reflected in the EU pavilion, the EU's main exhibition space at EXPO.
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Copa-Cogeca welcomed today European Parliament Agriculture Committee vote to keep import licenses and rules on communicating statistics for ethyl alcohol derived from agriculture sources, stressing it will help maintain market transparency and balance.
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On the occasion of yesterday’s meeting of the EU Special Committee on Agriculture and ahead of EU Ministers meeting, Copa-Cogeca, EFFAT and IFOAM EU urged in a letter sent to EU Agriculture Ministers to safeguard the European organic sector and not introduce measures that could threaten its development.
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Chairman of Copa-Cogecas Working Party on greening and direct payments under the new CAP Udo Hemmerling warned in a hearing organized by European Parliaments Agriculture Committee today that it is unacceptable that farmers risk losing their full payment when making small errors when applying environmental greening measures under the new CAP.
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Innovative crop protection solutions from Bayer CropScience have helped a New Zealand farming couple break the world record yield for barley. Warren and Joy Darling, from Timaru in the country’s South Island, produced 13.8 tonnes per hectare, easily breaking the previous record of 12.2 tonnes held by Scottish grower Stockton Park since 1989. The new record was officially ratified by Guinness World Records on April 15 after the crop was harvested on January 23, 2015.
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Portuguese agriculture is at the heart of European agriculture, Copa President and LTO President Albert Jan Maat claimed in Lisbon.
That statement was made by Albert Jan Maat during the 40 th anniversary of the Congress of the Portuguese farmers organization (CAP).
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The EU and its member states must invest more effort and money in promoting healthy eating and the consumption of local foodstuffs amongst children, said the agriculture committee said on Tuesday when it amended draft rules on schemes to provide fruit, vegetables and milk in schools.
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The European Commission has approved 41 new programmes to promote agricultural products in the EU and on third country markets, worth 130 million EURO over 3 years, half of which (65m EURO) comes from the EU budget. This includes an extra 30m€ of EU funds made available by the Commission following the Russian ban on imports of EU food products last August.
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In November last year the Groupe de Bruges officially launched a unique e-learning platform, www.caneucapit.eu, where all European citizens can engage in online learning and discussing the oldest European policy: the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). The platform consists of four parts: CAP Game, CAP Basic videos, CAP Pro course & CAP Forums.
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Bayer CropScience and Farm Frites recently started a Food Chain Partnership initiative designed to implement sustainable agricultural practices in potato cultivation in the Netherlands and Belgium.
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The European Commission has launched an online consultation on how science and innovation can help the EU ensuring safe, nutritious, sufficient and sustainable food globally.
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The EU beef market situation continues to be difficult Copa-Cogeca Secretary-General Pekka Pesonen and Chairman of Copa-Cogecas’ beef working party Jean Pierre Fleury underlined in a meeting this week with high-level experts from the EU Commission Directorate-General for Agriculture and Trade.
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New EU rules for a new scheme of authorisations for vine plantings, allowing for a yearly limited expansion in the EU's wine area, have been published by the European Commission today. As agreed in the 2013 Common Agricultural Policy reform, the new scheme will apply from 1 January 2016, replacing the transitional planting rights regime.
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Root Demand Irrigation® (RDI®) recently accepted one of 50 awards from the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) for ground-breaking industry innovation for the development of its subsurface irrigation product. ASABE President Lalit Verma and ASABE Executive Director Darrin Drolinger further honored RDI by naming it one of five innovations that will change the nature of the crop farming industry.
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Today is the last day of the milk quota regime, introduced in 1984 as a temporary measure to address the structural oversupply on the EU market that had led to the infamous "milk lakes" and "butter mountains".
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Milk quotas were introduced to address the structural oversupply on the EU market of the late 1970s and early 1980s that had led to the infamous milk lakes and "butter mountains". EU dairy farmers were guaranteed a price for their milk (considerably higher than on world markets) regardless of market demand. Despite different efforts in the 1970s to slow down EU production, it continued to rise much faster than domestic demand. The system was also having a negative impact on world market prices, as the EU frequently subsidised exports on to the world market.
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The EU milk quota regime comes to an end on March 31, 2015. First introduced in 1984 at a time when EU production far outstripped demand, the quota regime was one of the tools introduced for overcoming these structural surpluses. Successive reforms of the EU's Common Agriculture Policy have increased the market-orientation of the sector and, in parallel, provided a range of other, more targeted instruments to help support producers in vulnerable areas, such as mountain areas where the costs of production are higher.
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The European Commission and the European Investment Bank (EIB) have today presented a model guarantee instrument for agriculture, the first new product developed in the framework of their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on co-operation in agriculture and rural development within the EU, signed in July 2014.
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The Commission has today proposed the extension of the deadline of aid applications for Direct Payments to Monday June 15th.
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The national allocation of the 150 million euro of EU funds for the School Fruit and Vegetables Scheme in 2015-16, proposed by the European Commission, was accepted by Member States.
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Raising China potato production is of utmost importance. In the coming years a great effort is to be made to meet the increasing demand of potatoes for fresh consumption and for industry.
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting will take place in Brussels on 16 March 2015. The Commission will be represented by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Phil Hogan and by Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Vytenis Andriukaitis.
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The Commission's proposal enabling the recovery of the surplus levy related to the milk quota year 2014/2015 in 3-year instalments was approved by Member States and will enter into force after its publication in the Official Journal before the end of March.
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From 10 to 12 March, Commissioner for Regional Policy Corina Creţu is in Romania. On 12 March she will participate in a conference on SMEs financing opportunities for 2014-2020. "I want the European Regional Development Fund to be a vital partner for our SMEs", she said, ahead of the conference.
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The European Commission has formally adopted measures providing Aid for Private Storage measures for the EU pigmeat sector. Under this standard market support measure, the Commission pays for part of the costs of storing pigmeat for 3-5 months.
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Copa and Cogeca sent a letter with detailed proposals to EU Farm Commissioner Phil Hogan this week outlining areas where simplification in the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) is vital.
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The Commission has approved the addition of two new products to the register of Protected Geographical Indications (PGIs) and Protected Designation of Origin (PDOs).
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Bayer had a very successful year in 2014, both operationally and strategically. The company set new records for sales and for EBITDA before special items.
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The Commission's proposal for the introduction of a Private Storage Aid for pigmeat was voted by Member States and will be operational in the beginning of March.
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New Holland Agriculture has upgraded the T8 Series with its ECOBlue™ Hi-eSCR technology for compliance with Tier 4B emissions standards. The entire range is more powerful than its predecessor and has maintained its excellent fuel efficiency. The upgrade also introduces a host of improvements to the operator’s comfort and convenience with enhancements for machine setting and maintenance.
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New Holland Agriculture introduces its new tractor styling with the new T7 Series featuring its ECOBlue™ HI-eSCR technology for compliance with Tier 4B emissions standards. The new eight-model range, which includes a new standard wheelbase model with an impressive peak power of 225 horsepower, delivers more power and bristles with productivity-boosting features.
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Carried out like conferences and exchanges, SIMA International Meetings are an opportunity to have a look with a transverse approach on all agriculture from all over the world. SIMA is more international than ever and offer a comprehensive range of products to meet all the needs of a farm operation.
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Discover the programme of the SIMA practical workshops in 2015 that take place in hall 7. Free acces
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Agritechnica 2015, which takes place from 10 to 14 November (with preview days on 8 and 9 November) is only nine months away and the deadline for booking exhibition stands has now past.
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The European Commission has today approved a further 18 Rural Development Programmes (RDPs) aimed at improving the competitiveness of the EU farming sector, caring for the countryside and climate, and strengthening the economic and social fabric of rural communities in the period until 2020.
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Year-around availability of high-quality fruits and vegetables at affordable prices is one crucial demand consumers have today: From February 4 to 6, Bayer Crop Science’s Food Chain Management team welcomed experts and partners from different stages of the food value chain. The key focus was the exchange on views about consumer demands, perfect quality and how to keep consistency of food supply for the future at the Fruit Logistica trade fair in Berlin (Germany).
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SIMA, the international trade show for agriculture suppliers, has associated with IMPACT, a Thai trade show organizer, to create a new SIMA show and access the whole ASEAN region.
The first edition will take place in Bangkok, from 17th to 19th of September 2015.
The ASEAN region is experiencing a dynamic agricultural expansion, as well as a growing mechanization of the agricultural practices, and now requires inputs, efficient agricultural equipment and first food process in order to meet its needs and ambition in the agri-food chain.
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A new report released by Cogeca today reveals how the top 100 agri-cooperatives in the EU increased their turnover by 14% in 2013, compared to 2012, enhancing growth and jobs in the EU and helping farmers to have a viable future
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The European Commission receives from the Member States, on an annual basis, data on the payments made to the beneficiaries of the EAGF (before 2007: EAGGF Guarantee section), for carrying out its functions in the context of the clearance of accounts and for monitoring developments and providing forecasts in the agricultural sector.
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Today, the National Academy of Science’s Institute of Medicine (IOM) released a report that is the first in a series to evaluate the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).
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The time is approaching to nominate your guild’s top young leader for the IFAJ-Alltech Young Leaders in Agricultural Journalism Award. The award, now in its tenth year, recognizes the leadership potential of young members from countries belonging to IFAJ, and supports their participation at an IFAJ congress.
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ASAJA-Sevilla, co-partnered by Copa-Cogeca, receives award for campaign to raise awareness of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and farming amongst citizens
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The European Commission and the Republic of Korea have announced that, from 1 February 2015, processed organic products certified in Europe or in South Korea may be sold as organic in either region.
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Critics of genetic engineering have long worried about the risk of modified organisms escaping into the environment. A biological-containment strategy described this week in Nature1, 2 has the potential to put some of those fears to rest and to pave the way for greater use of engineered organisms in areas such as agriculture, medicine and environmental clean-up.
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For China, and the world, the stakes are huge. Demand for food in China is predicted to rise by 50 billion kilograms in the next five years, according to China’s Ministry of Agriculture, threatening to put an intolerable strain on the country’s food supply.
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During a lunch event hosted by Mrs. Marit Paulsen, MEP, ESA - European Seed Association officially presented its ‘Speak up for Seeds’ Vision to Members of Parliament and the Commission. Next to representatives from the seed sector and policy advisors, the event was also attended by Agriculture Commissioner Phil Hogan and by the Deputy Head of Cabinet of Health Commissioner Vytenis Andriukaitis, Mrs. Nathalie Chaze.
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One man’s cure is another’s conspiracy, even in the case of potentially life saving cattle that have been genetically engineered to produce antibodies that would battle Ebola, a virus that has infected over 21,000 and killed 8,000 since December 2013.
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Yesterday, three outstanding events concluded the 7th Global Forum for Food and Agriculture (GFFA). Around 1,200 guests from around the world were in the audience to follow the GFFA Panel discussions at the CityCube Berlin. Afterwards, the German food and farming industries invited the participants to attend the International Business Panel. At a parallel event the agriculture ministers of more than 70 countries gathered to meet with high-ranking representatives of the World Bank and the World Food Organization (FAO) at the Berlin Agriculture Ministers' Summit.
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Crop based biofuels are vital for animal feed, the environment, jobs, fuel. It is unacceptable to limit their use and turn our back on science and innovation, Copa-Cogeca Secretary-General Pekka Pesonen warned at an International Conference"Fuels of the Future 2015" in Berlin today.
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On 19 January, the European Commission, in partnership with the European Investment Bank (EIB), is launching fi-compass, a new advisory service on financial instruments for the European Structural and Investment Funds.
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The European Union and Morocco have concluded negotiations on an agreement to mutually protect their Geographical Indications (GIs). Through this agreement Morocco and the EU will ensure high level protection for their respective GIs for food products. Also aimed at promoting and fostering trade relations in agricultural products and foodstuffs produced in Morocco and the European Union, the text of the agreement was initialled today at chief negotiator's level.
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Please note: On Sunday (18 Jan.) at 12.30 p.m. in Hall 19 the Green Week 2015 will welcome its 100,000th visitor. The lucky person will be the recipient of a gift hamper from the partner country Latvia.
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established in 1926, International Green Week is taking place for the 80th time in 2015. The IGW is a one-of-a-kind international exhibition for the food, agricultural and horticultural industries. At the same time, the IGW is the point of origin for the Global Forum for Food and Agriculture (GFFA) with more than 65 departmental ministers. Producers from all over the world come to IGW to test market food and luxury items and reinforce their brand image.
Following consumer trends, regional sourcing plays an increasingly important role. Renewable resources, organic agricultural, rural development and gardening continue to gain importance at International Green Week.
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According to the Russian Agriculture Minister, some 14 agreements worth €102 million were expected to be signed in Berlin during “Grüne Woche”, or Green Week, the world's biggest agricultural fair.
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Every drop counts in agriculture – especially when it comes to crop protection products. There should be absolutely no spilling onto the skin of the farmer when he fills herbicides, fungicides or insecticides into his equipment. And the soil and waters also have to be protected from these so-called point-source inputs. After all, such unintentional spilling during dosage accounts for about half of all incidents of pollution. But farmers can protect themselves and the environment: with a closed transfer system. It directly links the canister with the crop protection product to the tank of the field sprayer or mistblower.
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This year's edition of Grüne Woche in Berlin takes place on 16 - 25th January. This is one of the most important worldwide events dedicated to food industry and agriculture. Last year's edition was participated by almost 1 650 exhibitors from several dozen countries, and the number of visitors exceeded 400 000.
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The European Commission is inviting comments on new draft guidelines on the application of EU antitrust rules in the agricultural sector. After a reform of the EU's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), new specific rules apply to the sale of olive oil, beef and veal livestock and arable crops. In particular, the new rules allow producers to jointly commercialise these products if certain conditions are fulfilled, including that their cooperation creates significant efficiencies.
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Agriculture Commissioner Phil Hogan and Health and Food Safety Commissioner Vytenis Andriukaitis will both attend the 80th International Green Weekin Berlin this week, which starts on Thursday evening.
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Following the conclusion of the 41st edition of Eima International, we are pleased to send you attached hereby the statistical data.
The event, promoted by FederUnacoma and organized by FederUnacoma Surl, took place in Bologna from November 12th to 16th and achieved extraordinarily positive results, with the highest-ever numbers in terms of exhibitors, exhibiting area, visitors, journalists and foreign delegations. These results name the Exhibition as an event par excellence, a world-wide reference point for the Agricultural Machinery sector.
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Agriflanders 2015, 9th Agriflanders Agricultural Fair is starting on 15 January, 2015 and ending on 18 January, 2015.
The venue of the Fair and Exhibition has been chosen as Flanders Expo.
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Australia’s tropical wonderland beckons for all IFAJ members contemplating heading Down Under for the 2015 World Congress in New Zealand. The Australian Council of Agricultural Journalists is joining with the Rural Press Club of Queensland to put together an enticing pre-congress tour.
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IRON Solutions provides market information, analytics-based intelligence and a cloud-based enterprise system to improve dealer and producer productivity. Coupled with Trimble's Connected Farm™ solution, IRON Solutions will enable improved real-time decisions for equipment fleets and more tightly link equipment, seed and chemical dealers to the grower through its ERP/CRM systems. Farmers, their equipment dealers and their agronomy advisors will now have one Connected Farm platform for collaboration on key investment and prescription decisions. IRON Solutions manages over 15 million data points annually from over 1,200 manufacturers and over 2,200 retail sources throughout North America.
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Statement by EU Health Commissioner Vytenis Andriukaitis, Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmström and Agriculture and Rural Development Commissioner Phil Hogan
Brussels, 05 January 2015
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In the next 40 years, humans will need to produce more food than they did in the previous 10,000 put together. But with sprawling cities gobbling up arable land, agricultural productivity gains decreasing, and demand for biofuels increasing, supply is not keeping up with demand. Clever farmers, scientists and entrepreneurs are bursting with ideas. But they need money to make this jump.
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Climate change will require major transformations in agricultural systems, including increased irrigation and moving production from one region to another, according to the new study, published in the journal Environmental Research Letters. However without careful planning for uncertain climate impacts, the chances of getting adaptation wrong are high, the study shows.
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The European Union has announced new funding of total €410 million under its bilateral cooperation with Cambodia over the period 2014-2020 to continue its support to Cambodia's progress.
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The European Commission welcomes the announcement by South Korea today that, from 1 February 2015, processed organic products certified in the European Union may be sold as organic in South Korea.
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A total of €102 million of EU agricultural policy funds, unduly spent by Member States, is being claimed back by the European Commission from Greece, Ireland and Slovenia under the so-called clearance of accounts procedure. This money returns to the EU budget because of non-compliance with EU rules or inadequate control procedures on agricultural expenditure. Member States are responsible for paying out and checking expenditure under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), and the Commission is required to ensure that Member States have made correct use of the funds.
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The European Commission has given the green light to a further six Rural Development Programmes (RDPs) for the 2014-2020 period to provide different forms of support and investment in rural Europe.
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The European Commission has today approved the first three of 118 Rural Development Programmes (RDPs) aimed at improving the competitiveness of the EU farming sector, caring for the countryside and climate, and strengthening the economic and social fabric of rural communities in the period until 2020.
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The European Commission intends to adopt additional emergency market measures for perishable fruit & vegetables in response to the market disturbances resulting from the Russian ban on imports of certain EU agricultural products. The additional measure will run until the end of June 2015. The scheme provides for new eligible volumes of certain fruit and vegetables in specific Member States that may be withdrawn from the market.
The quantities will be based on export volumes for this period in the last 3 years to Russia.
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Karmenu Vella, the EU's Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, will present the Commission's proposals for fixing fishing opportunities for 2015 for the Atlantic, North Sea and Black Sea to the Agriculture and Fisheries Council on the 15th and 16th December.
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Copa-Cogeca welcomed today as a step in the right direction the 10.7 million euros aid package to help compensate Finnish dairy producers who lost their main export market overnight due to the Russian export ban on farm produce.
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Copa-Cogeca welcomed today the provisional agreement struck between European Parliament and European Council ensuring that there will be no cuts in EU farm spending next year which is crucial faced with the Russian crisis.
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Deere & Company has fully acquired Auteq Telematica, an onboard software and computer company located in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Deere had previously created a joint venture with Auteq in 2009 to provide integrated, innovative technologies and solutions for sugarcane production.
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In a first meeting with new EU Agriculture Commissioner Hogan, EU farm leaders from across Europe welcomed his plans to simplify EU farm policy, and outlined areas where action is crucial.
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The members of AgriCord mobilize knowledge and means in order to advise farmers’ organisations and cooperatives around the globe on their development into strong defenders of the farmers’ interests and solvable businesses.
Echoing the Netherlands (co-founder), France, Belgium, Sweden, Finland and Canada, now also Spain and Germany join the network.
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At the invitation of Italian Minister of Agriculture Maurizio Martina, EU Ministers met in Sicily on 28 November 2014 accompanied by CEJA President Matteo Bartolini in order to discuss agriculture and food security in the Mediterranean region.
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Healthy soils are critical for global food production, but we are not paying enough attention to this important "silent ally," FAO Director-General José Graziano da Silva said on the eve of World Soil Day, to be celebrated on 5 December.
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Avian influenza, known as bird flu, has killed thousands of turkeys and chickens on two farms in the province of British Columbia, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) said on Tuesday.
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Belgium has donated €5.8 million to support FAO activities that help protect agriculture-based livelihoods for food security and resilience in the face of natural disasters and human-induced crises.
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Donation helps protect agriculture livelihoods and paves way to strengthen resilience.
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The Ministry of Agriculture of Fiji has plans to source potato seed materials for the Red Pontiac variety from Australia as it continues its efforts to boost local production.
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Watchword of the forthcoming exhibition, the slogan "Innovation First!" will be applied around 3 topics: material (techniques, equipment,…), crops (large-scale crops, tropical crops, specialised crops,…) and the human factor (regions, development of professions, the place of the farmer,…).
It will be expressed in the exhibition through:
- the Innovation First! Area: a veritable laboratory of ideas that will combine the work of French and international engineering schools with forecast scenarios on the topic of "agriculture until 2050", and the Innovation Gallery, showcase of the 2015 SIMA Innovation Awards;
- events, with International Forums, Conferences and
Practical Workshops.
More than 600 new products will be presented by the exhibitors.
And, to show how far we have come in less then a century, the Flashback Area presents old equipment, showing to what extent there has been revolution in the development of agricultural machinery! Still in matters of innovation.
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Discover the results of SIMA Innovation Awards 2015: 2 Gold medals, 3 Silver medals and 18 Special mentions.
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The 17th edition of INTERPOM | PRIMEURS in Kortrijk Xpo has again chalked up record visitor numbers with no less than 19 529 visitors, representing an increase of 10.5%.
In spite of the difficult market situation today, these growth figures (the last edition was also up 25.7%) together with the many new products at the event show that there is strong confidence in the future of our potato, fruit and vegetable sector.
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First results from Farm Inc project to help farmers better market produce show experiential learning best way to help farmers understand marketing principles in the agricultural sector
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yesterday Arnold Schuler, the Provincial Agriculture Councilor, opened the 9th edition of Interpoma, the international trade show for the apple cultivation, storage and marketing, with 423 exhibitors coming from 20 different countries.
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The Commission has approved the addition of a new German product to the register of Protected Geographical Indications (PGIs).
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The European Commission yesterday confirmed its intention to adopt a €28m support package for milk producers in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. This new package will be the latest in a series adopted by the European Commission in response to the Russian ban on the importation of certain EU agricultural products.
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South Korea on Tuesday imposed a ban on all poultry imports from Britain and the Netherlands, in a move aimed at preventing the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza reported in the countries this week, the government said.
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New Holland has significantly upgraded the T4 PowerStar™ series, which is the first in Europe to feature PM Cat (Particulate Matter Catalyst) technology for Tier 4B compliance. Showcased for the first time in Europe at Cereals 2014, it also benefits from Common Rail technology for lower fuel consumption and improved operating productivity and efficiency.
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Monsanto Co said on Wednesday it reached a settlement with U.S. wheat farmers who sued the seed company over market disruption after unapproved genetically engineered wheat was discovered growing without oversight in Oregon.
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CEJA strongly welcomes the proposals put forward by the Italian Presidency at today’s Agriculture Council meeting on the subject of ‘Strengthening EU policies to support young farmers’. The barriers to access a career in farming, most importantly lack of access to land and credit, are also the barriers that stand in the way of a more innovative and sustainable European agricultural sector.
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Copa-Cogeca welcomed today as a step in the right direction EU Farm Ministers strong support to not cut EU agriculture expenditure next year.
They called for every effort to be made to ensure that sufficient funds are made available in the 2015 EU budget to aid farmers and agri-cooperatives hit severely by the Russian ban on EU farm exports.
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Numerous meetings will enliven the five days of the international agricultural mechanization exposition. Agencies, publishing houses and exhibiting industries are promoting gatherings and conferences on technical and policy issues of interest. More than one hundred appointments are on the calendar to confirm the Bologna review as not only a promotional and commercial event but also cultural
Young farmers, contractors, bioenergy, hydrogeological dissolution and international markets are only a few of the issues to be taken up during the 41st edition of EIMA International, the agricultural machinery exposition set for November 12 to 16 in the Bologna Trade Fair Center. The event, one of the world’s greatest in the field of technologies for the primary sector, is also stepping up as an occasion for meetings, conferences and discussions on the salient points of the agricultural economy, the environment, industrial policy, research and innovation as well as the rural society.
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A potato genetically engineered to reduce the amounts of a potentially harmful ingredient in French fries and potato chips has been approved for commercial planting, the Department of Agriculture announced on Friday.
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The November Agriculture and Fisheries Council will take place in Brussels on 10-11 November 2014 with the Commission represented for the first time by Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Karmenu Vella, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Phil Hogan and Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Vytenis Andriukaitis. A press conference will be held at the end of the discussions on Monday late afternoon (for Agriculture) and Tuesday lunchtime (Fisheries). The public debates and the press conferences can be followed by video streaming.
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The 17th edition of INTERPOM | PRIMEURS will take place between Sunday 23 and Tuesday 25 November 2014 at Kortrijk Xpo (Belgium). INTERPOM | PRIMEURS, the most specialised indoor trade fair in Europe for the potato, vegetable and fruit sector, has broken a new record number with 270 exhibitors.
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Supported by the unique partnership between Potato Council and Scottish Government to boost export opportunities, senior officials from Cuba’s Agricultural Ministry and Plant Health section traveled to Scotland this month to meet officials from Scottish Government, SASA, Fera and Potato Council to view our seed potato industry at first hand and discuss revised import conditions for GB seed potatoes.
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More than twenty of Europe's most prominent plant scientists today signed a joint letter warning that Europe will never meet agricultural targets unless it starts allowing GM crops
GM crops have polarised opinion for 30 years
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On Friday, 31 October 2014, the EU Commissioner for Trade Karl De Gucht will travel to Kenya to meet with a number of high level government representatives in the area of foreign affairs and international trade, East African affairs, finance, industrialisation and agriculture.
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The European Commission has today approved 27 programmes to promote agricultural products in the European Union and in third countries. The total budget of the programmes, the grand majority of which will run for a period of three years, is € 77,4 million of which the EU contributes € 39 million.
The selected programmes cover a variety of product categories, such as fresh and processed fruit and vegetables, dairy products, quality products (PDOs, PGIs, TSGsand organic products), flowers, quality meat, as well as, for the first time, sheepmeat.
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The European Commission has adopted a "Partnership Agreement" with Belgium setting down the strategy for the optimal use of European Structural and Investment Funds throughout the country. Today’s agreement paves the way for investing €2.28 billion in total Cohesion Policy funding over 2014-2020 (current prices, including European Territorial Cooperation funding and the allocation for the Youth Employment Initiative. Belgium also receives €551.8 million for rural development and €41.7 million for fisheries and the maritime sector.
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Starch Europe (formerly AAF, Association des Amidonniers et Féculiers) announced its support for the European Commission’s Communication for a European Industrial Renaissance at an event held in Brussels October 15. The Communication which forms part of the Commission’s efforts to tackle weaknesses hampering economic growth through industry support is a priority shared by Jean-Claude Juncker who begins his term at the helm of the European Commission.
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Copa-Cogeca welcomes the appointment of new EU Agriculture Commission Mr Hogan (EPP) from Ireland who will take over from Commissioner Ciolos.
Amanda Cheesley
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Ms Christina BORCHMANN has been appointed as Director of "Audit of agricultural expenditure" in the Directorate-General for Agriculture and Rural Development.
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The approach for financing the agriculture crisis measures following the Russian embargo is consistent with the budgetary rules, the political circumstances and the serious shortage of payments that we are facing.
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Global demand for food is expected to increase by 70% by 2050, while a steep increase in biomass use will also put pressure on agriculture.
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Copa-Cogeca highlighted at a seminar this week how the EU biofuels sector is crucial for creating growth and jobs in EU rural areas, at the same time as reducing oil dependency, cutting greenhouse gas emissions, stabilising commodity markets and ensuring animal feed supplies.
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The food supply chain plays a crucial role in the daily life and well-being of every one of us. Apart from ensuring that we all have food to consume on a daily basis, it also provides employment for 46 million people in more than 15 million enterprises engaged in agriculture, food industry, food trade and services. This afternoon's final meeting of the EU's High Level Forum for a Better Functioning Food Supply Chain will reveal a lot of progress in improving the operation of the food supply chain; in particular the group has contributed to more equitable business-to business trading relationships. But work still needs to be continued on sustainability, social dialogue and the monitoring of food prices.
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of October 2014 will take place in Luxembourg on 13-14th October 2014. The Commission will be represented by Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Maria Damanaki and Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Ciolos.
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Farm Leaders from across Europe gathered in Brussels today and adopted a major declaration underlining the huge benefits of European Family Farms and Agri-Cooperatives in boosting EU economic growth, providing quality food, helping to feed the world and care for the environment.
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More than 170 leaders of the dairy industry will gather in Stresa (Italy) next week to discuss the benefits, opportunities and potential risks of free trade agreements and other challenges of the European dairy sector in a global context.
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Copa-Cogeca called at EU Farm Ministers Informal meeting today for measures that benefit the environment at the same time as being economically viable in order to meet the needs of a growing world population set to rise by over 2 billion in less than 40 years.
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The European Commission has today adopted a new programme for emergency market measures for perishable fruit & vegetables in the wake of the Russian ban on imports of certain EU agricultural products. Worth up to €165 million, this new scheme provides support to withdraw surplus volumes from the market and comes in addition to the programme worth up to €125 million € for fruit & vegetables that was announced on August 18, but suspended on September 10 because provisional applications showed that the full budget allocation had already been claimed.
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Around 3,000 farmers work 6,000 hectares in Veracruz, the west coast of Mexico, to grow potatoes (Solanum tuberosum). In recent decades, the fields of the Cofre de Perote area were affected by the presence of the golden nematode of potatoes (Globodera rostochiensis), also known as the yellow potato cyst nematode, a devastating plant pathogen, which reduced crop yields by more than 40 percent, leading to loss of income, loss of food and greater environmental strain due to making up the gap.
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Interpom | Primeurs 2014, the leading trade fair for the whole of the potato, vegetable and fruit sector in Europe, will be held on Sunday 23 to Tuesday 25 November 2014 in Kortrijk Xpo (Belgium). With two months still to go before the opening, the event is already bigger than last time – and virtually fully booked!
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Bayer CropScience is optimistic about the development perspectives of the agricultural markets and commits to invest significantly to deliver new solutions for sustainable agriculture. "We are convinced of the long-term growth potential of the agricultural markets despite increasing volatility," said Bayer CropScience CEO Liam Condon at the company’s annual press conference in Monheim, Germany. "We expect the worldwide market for agricultural inputs of crop protection products, seeds and traits to grow to around EUR 100 billion by 2020, up from EUR 50 billion in 2008", Condon forecasts.
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The European Commission has approved the addition of two new quality food products to the register of protected designations of origin (PDOs) and protected geographical indications (PGIs).
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The European Commission has approved under the EU Merger Regulation the acquisition of Noble Agri belonging to the Noble Group by COFCO Corporation of China.
COFCO is a large supplier of diversified products and services in agricultural products and the food industry in China.
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The all-important goal of safeguarding farmers’ health and protecting the environment is achieved at this Bayer ForwardFarm by means of proactive stewardship measures to protect the health of farmers and consumers, maintain biodiversity on the farm, and protect the environment.
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Bayer CropScience has inaugurated the first Bayer ForwardFarm in the Belgian town of Huldenberg. The "Hof ten Bosch" farm owned by Jan and Josse Peeters brings together farmers, scientists and academia, technology partners and other players throughout the value chain, politics and regulators, as well as consumers, with the goals of exchanging agricultural know-how and forming partnerships to jointly promote the important role of agriculture in society.
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Fine Gael's Phil Hogan has been confirmed as the European Union's Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development.
European Commission President-elect Jean-Claude Juncker announced the list of 28 new EU Commissioners this morning.
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Ardo and Dujardin Foods are pleased to report that the merger of Ardo and Dujardin Foods has been approved by the competition authorities in all of the countries where we are active. No restrictions or conditions have been placed on the merger.
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Postmenopausal women who eat foods higher in potassium [such as potatoes; PotatoPro] are less likely to have strokes or to die from any cause than women who eat fewer potassium-rich foods, according to data from the Women's Health Initiative (WHI). The research, led by Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University, was published online in the journal Stroke.
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of September 2014 will take place in Brussels on 5th September 2014, starting at 2pm. The Commission will be represented by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Cioloş.
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On August 7, 2014, Russia announced the introduction of an import ban, applicable from August 8, on certain meat, dairy, fruit, vegetable and processed food products from the EU, USA, Canada, Australia and Norway. This memo is aimed at addressing the most Frequently Asked Questions relating to these measures.
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The Commission has today confirmed its intention to provide an additional €30 million of EU funding for CAP promotion programmes starting in 2015, on top of the €60 million that is foreseen annually in the CAP budget. As these schemes are co-funded, this change is likely to mean an additional 60 million EURO for promotion measures. Aimed at alleviating the impact of the Russian measures against certain EU agricultural products, this additional effort will start with the promotion programmes that need to be submitted by the end of September.
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The European Commission has announced today that it will open Private Storage Aid for butter, Skimmed Milk Powder (SMP) and certain cheeses in order to alleviate the impact of Russian restrictions on imports of EU dairy products and to limit the negative effects on the internal market. The Commission has also confirmed that the period for public intervention of butter & SMP will be extended until the end of the year.
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The Yara Prize 2014 is being awarded to Professor Tekalign Mamo Assefa. Currently state minister and adviser to the Ethiopian Minister of Agriculture, Professor Mamo has long been a key contributor to the country’s food security, soil health and natural resources programs.
For 2014, the Yara Prize Committee has focused on the future of farming in Africa. Special attention has been given to food and nutrition security and the twin challenges of employment and income generation.
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An agricultural research center in western Japan has developed and commercialized a ladybug as a biopesticide.
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Copa-Cogeca welcomed today the move by European Agriculture Commissioner Ciolos to help support the EU farm sector in response to the crisis hitting the sector as a result of the Russian ban on agricultural products. Copa President Albert Jan Maat urged the Commission for swift implementation of the measures to avoid a further deterioration of the market.
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In the context of Russian restrictions on imports of EU agricultural products and following on from last week’s Management Committee meeting discussion of the market situation, the European Commission is moving as from today to introduce support measures for certain perishable fruits & vegetables.
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The European Commission is moving today to introduce support measures for the EU peach & nectarine sectors, notably by increasing the volumes of fruit eligible for withdrawal operations and free distribution. These markets have been hard hit by unfavourable weather conditions, with additional pressure now resulting from the import ban introduced by Russia.
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In potatoes precision farming technologies may support nearly every part of the production. Which solution is helpful? Agricon, the German supplier for precision farming solutions, will answer this question at the Potato Europe. The side specific application of fertilizer and plant protection agents will be one of the main topics, besides the raise of quality in tillage.
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The European Commission is sending, as an emergency response, a total of 1,1 million doses of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) vaccines to the Algerian and Tunisian authorities, in support of the FMD control campaign carried out following the spread of a new strain of the virus.
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CNH Industrial celebrated today the opening of its new manufacturing complex in Harbin, in Heilongjiang Province. It is the largest agricultural equipment production plant in Northeast China and will produce a complete line of products under its Case IH and New Holland Agriculture brands to support the Country's agricultural needs, and the full cycle of corn, wheat, soybean and hay production.
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Experts from the UK and India are working together to identify and develop novel environmentally-sustainable strategies to control plant pests, known as plant-parasitic nematodes or eelworms, to ensure global food production and security. This project is funded by the UK-India Education and Research Initiative (UKIERI).
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Precision Agriculture (PA) is a whole-farm management approach using information technology, satellite positioning (GNSS) data, remote sensing and proximal data gathering. These technologies have the goal of optimising returns on inputs whilst potentially reducing environmental impacts. The state-of-the-art of PA on arable land, permanent crops (eg potatoes, ...) and within dairy farming are reviewed, mainly in the European context, together with some economic aspects of the adoption of PA.
Options to address PA adoption are discussed, including measures within the CAP 2014-2020 legislation and the important contribution of advisory services across Europe.
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Modern agriculture places ever-changing demands upon farmers, managers and contractors, but a key constant is the need to manage equipment in the field as efficiently as possible to optimise utilisation and reduce downtime. New Holland PLM® Connect is a state-of-the-art communication system that can facilitate the control and supervision of equipment from a centralised office, allowing machine operation to be monitored and managed without the need to spend time travelling between separate operations. It is a flexible system, needing just a 12volt supply to enable it to work with all brands of equipment.
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In the last decade, both the number of organic farms and the area dedicated to organic farming have grown by 50% or more. Organic area in the EU increased by about 500 000 hectares per year.
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Did you know that plants (potatoes) and trees have a pulse? It’s true, plants expand, contract and experience stress in ways similar to the human heart. Phytech, an agri-tech company out of Israel, calls this pulse a “plantbeat” and says that understanding the plantbeat is the key to high-yield crop production..
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David Thompson, President & CEO, World Potato Congress Inc. (WPC Inc.) has announced the appointment of Mr. Ron Gall, New Zealand; Dr. Nora Olsen, USA; and Anne Fowlie, Canada; as members of the Board of Directors.
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There are around 12 million farms in the EU while agriculture (vegetables, meat, potatoes, rice, ...) represents 5.2% of employment in the EU, with big variations across Member States.
These are among the statistics presented in the Agriculture in the European Union: statistical and economic information report published today by the European Commission, an annual publication covering agriculture-related topics in EU Member States and acceding and candidate countries.
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In the first week of June, a grower could expect to receive between $7.75 and $8.25 for 100 pounds of potatoes, depending on quality, according to data. In the first week of July, prices had fallen to between $4.25 and $4.75.
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The Directorate General for Agriculture and Rural Development (DG AGRI) of the European Commission has today finalised the review of the composition of the civil dialogue groups dealing with matters covered by the Common Agricultural Policy such as environment and climate change, animal products, organic farming, forest or quality and promotion.
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North Korea needs sustainable agriculture as much as it needs nuclear power to keep enemies at bay, which has led to a push for self-sufficient farming — but for it to succeed the country would have to sanction capitalist-style reforms
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Australia’s industry association of vegetable and potato growers, AUSVEG, has welcomed the announcement by the Federal Minister for Agriculture that the Federal Government will review the current process by which biosecurity threats are assessed.
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European Commission and European Investment Bank (EIB) sign Memorandum of Understanding for co-operation in agriculture and rural development
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of July 2014 will take place in Brussels on 14th July 2014. The Commission will be represented by Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Maria Damanaki, and the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Cioloş.
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Copa-Cogeca welcomed today the start of a new joint European Undertaking on Bio-based Industries (BBI) designed to trigger investments and create a competitive market for bio-based products and materials sourced locally and “Made in Europe” and the launch of the first calls.
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A total of €57 million of EU agricultural policy funds, unduly spent by Member States, is being claimed back by the European Commission today under the so-called clearance of accounts procedure. However, because some of these amounts have already been recovered from the Member States the financial impact of today's decision will be some €52 million.
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A report published today by the European Court of Auditors (ECA) reveals that the Commission did not adequately supervise Member States for the calculation of payment entitlements to EU farm support under the Single Payment Scheme in the period 2010-2012.
The distribution of the available support by the Member States was not always consistent with EU principles and policy objectives and the payment entitlements were sometimes incorrectly calculated."
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The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) is the European Union's answer to the need for a decent standard of living for 12 million farmers and a stable, varied and safe food supply for its 500 million citizens.
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The Short-term outlook is based on reflections of market experts within the Directorate General for Agriculture and Rural Development of the European Commission, using the latest data available. It is published three times per year (in late winter, early summer and early autumn).
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EFFAT calls for a Europe in which workers have guaranteed rights, high-quality jobs are assured, products are of the highest quality, the environment is protected, and men and women, irrespective of their place of origin or employment contract, enjoy equal treatment and equal opportunities.
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EU Commissioner for Development, Andris Piebalgs, will today participate in an event to promote global food and nutrition security and increase resilience for rural poor people. Co-organised with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) the World Food Programme (WFP), and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the event will take place in Rome (Italy).
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Currently, the world is locked on to the FIFA World Cup in Brazil. Though they have already reached a high technical level as far as football is concerned, the South American countries still have development potential in the fields of biogas technology and renewable energies. In the interview, Aguinaldo Ramalho Of the German biogas plant manufacturer WELTEC BIOPOWER talks about the potential, experiences and opportunities that exist in South America in this area.
What are the conditions for the operation of biogas plants in South America?
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The EU requested the World Trade Organisation (WTO) in Geneva to rule over a dispute concerning the Russian ban on imports of pigs and their genetic material, fresh pork and certain other pig products from the EU, purportedly because of a limited number of cases of African Swine Fever (ASF) in certain areas of Lithuania and Poland, close to the border with Belarus.
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On 27 June 2014 the EU signed Association Agreements with Georgia and the Republic of Moldova and complete the signature process with Ukraine, each providing for a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area.
This is an important moment both for the EU and for the countries concerned as the Agreements will significantly deepen political and economic ties between the signatories with a long-term perspective of closer political association and economic integration.
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Kiremko B.V., the Netherlands, a leading Dutch food processing equipment firm, has entered the crowded segment of potato chips in India by supplying the potato chips line to Fryo Foods Pvt. Ltd., a 45 years old potato producing firm, by installing a state of the art potato chips manufacturing line in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh.
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The European Commission has today set out revised and updated criteria under which Member States can support agriculture, forestry and rural areas, in line with EU state aid rules. This is part of the Commission's State Aid Modernisation (SAM) initiative, aimed at fostering growth and competitiveness in the EU, and goes hand in hand with the Common Agricultural Policy, more particularly with the new rural development policy of the EU. In more precise terms, the Commission has adopted a new Agricultural Block Exemption Regulation (ABER) and new Guidelines for State aid in the agricultural and forestry sectors and in rural areas 2014 to 2020 (GL). ABER allows the granting of certain categories of State aid to the agricultural and forestry sectors and in rural areas without prior notification to the Commission.
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The European Commission has found that Lutèce, Prochamp and Bonduelle participated in a cartel to coordinate prices and allocate customers of canned mushrooms in Europe during more than a year and has imposed fines totalling € 32 225 000.
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The European Commission has published a decision today defining new rules for using the optional quality term "mountain product" for food products coming from mountain areas. This is the first optional quality term to be introduced, as provided under the 2012 "Quality Regulation" aimed at highlighting to consumers products which have an important added value, but are not covered under the other EU quality labels.
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The Belgian fruit and vegetable auctions are joining forces to promote sustainable development. Two years ago, in February 2012, they launched the collective sustainability label Responsibly Fresh. Since then, the auctions involved in the initiative - Belgische Fruitveiling, BelOrta, Limburgse Tuinbouwveiling, REO Veiling en Veiling Hoogstraten - along with the associated producers (fruits, vegetables, potatoes, ...), have been continuing to work tirelessly.
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of March 2014 will take place in Luxembourg on 16th and 17th June 2014. The Commission will be represented by Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Cioloş and Commissioner for Health, Tonio Borg.
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The European Commission has today published a report on the development of the dairy market situation and the operation of the 2012 "Milk Package". It describes the rather positive outlook for the dairy market, takes stock of the implementation of the provisions and possibilities of the "Milk Package" and outlines further considerations in view of the end of the quota system in 2015.
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The second formal Environment Council under the Greek Presidency will be held in Luxembourg on 12 June. Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik, Commissioner for Climate Action Connie Hedegaard and Health Commissioner Tonio Borg will represent the European Commission.
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Tajikistan intends to increase potato production and Russia’s Closed Joint-Stock Company (CJSC) Kolnag is ready to provide local farming units with elite and super elite potato seeds.
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Aviko has acquired a majority interest in a fries factory in the north-east of China. An agreement to this effect was recently reached with Snow Valley Agriculture, the current owner of the factory.
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With more people buying local and organic food, consumers should know the difference between the two so they recognize what they’re buying, but nearly one in five still confuse the terms, a University of Florida researcher says.
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The final national envelopes available for the 2014/15 School Fruit Scheme in each participating Member State have been approved in the Management Committee this week.
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A reluctance by so-called cooks to peel a spud is causing a crisis for Westcountry potato farmers, the first day of the Bath and West Show heard.
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CEJA Vice-Presidents Alan Jagoe and Matthias Daun, young dairy farmers themselves, attended the European Commission’s Milk Market Observatory’s first meeting of its Economic Board on 27 May 2014 in Brussels, Belgium in order to discuss developments on the milk market.
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A conference in the Charlemagne centre, Brussels, on 26 and 27 May will focus debate on solutions to global deforestation and forest degradation and their implications for climate change, development and biodiversity loss. Representatives from industry, academia, NGOs and governments are meeting to discuss the main drivers and impacts of deforestation, the role of business and how to secure livelihoods, biodiversity and climate through the sustainable management of forests and land resources. Speakers include EU Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik. According to FAO estimates, some 13 million hectares of forest are lost every year.
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The European Commission has granted clearance under the EU Merger Regulation to the acquisition of joint control by Lantmännen ekonomisk förening of Sweden and Dansk Landbrugs Grovvareselskab over HaGe Polska of Poland.
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In a high-level meeting in Washington today, Copa-Cogeca warned of the logistical problems for exporting produce to the US like costly labeling and shipping rules, stressing that these barriers to trade must be overcome to ensure a successful outcome to the free trade talks between the EU and US.
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The European Commission is hosting today a landmark conference on a new initiative to stop biodiversity loss.
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The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) have adopted revised guidelines to manage potato cyst nematode (PCN) that will support potato growers, help facilitate international trade, and maintain protection against the pest.
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A broad coalition of associations representing Europe’s agriculture and food chain industries calls on the EU to do much more to find solutions to the lack of plant protection products for specialty crops, such as fruits and vegetables (e.g. potatoes), rice, flowers or seeds.
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of May 2014 will take place in Brussels on 19th May 2014. The Commission will be represented by Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Cioloş, the Commissioner for Health, Tonio Borg. A press conference will be held in the afternoon at the end of the discussions.
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EU farm supply cooperatives play a key role in ensuring that their members have access to the best possible services and inputs vital to farm production at a competitive cost, Cogeca President Christian Pèes stressed at a Presidency business forum on the farm supply sector in Berlin today
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The Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (Bari) and Peru-based International Potato Centre (CIP) will introduce a late blight resistant potato for use in next season: Bari Potato - 46
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This week, the Italian Ministry of Agriculture signed an agreement with AIB (Anti Infringement Bureau) and Breeders Trust. The agreement means that the Food Fraud Detection Inspection of the ministry (ICQRF) and the Inspection Service for seed potatoes and seeds (CRA-SCS) will work closely with AIB and Breeders Trust in targeted actions against infringement of plant variety rights and illegal propagation.
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The EU's Council of Ministers definitely adopted the new Enforcement Directive to increase the protection of workers temporarily posted abroad and enhance legal certainty on 13 May 2014 (see IP/14/542).
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A report published today by the European Court of Auditors (ECA) reveals that the EU has been only partially successful in integrating water policy goals into the common agricultural policy (CAP).
The audit highlighted weaknesses in the two instruments currently used to integrate water concerns into the CAP (namely cross-compliance and rural development) and pointed out delays and weaknesses in the implementation of the Water Framework Directive.
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THE farming industry has paid tribute to Sir Ben Gill, the former NFU president, who has died following a long illness at the age of 64.
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Azerbaijan and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) intend to develop the production of virus-free seed potatoes.
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Ten years ago, on 1 May 2004, the EU enlarged from 15 to 25 Member States (subsequent enlargements bring the EU to 28). The focus of this Brief is on developments in agriculture (meat, fruits, vegetables, potatoes, ...) and the rural economy and the impact of the CAP in the 10 new Member States.
The balance of these ten years of EU membership is clearly positive for agriculture and the agri-food sector in the EU-N101.
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At EU Farm Ministers informal meeting in Athens today, Copa-Cogeca drew attention to the wide diversity and quality of EU farm produce, stressing research and innovation is key to preserving it and developing it further.
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The European Union and Japan are like-minded strategic partners and major economies sharing common values and principles. Their 22nd bilateral summit will take place on 7 May in Brussels. The EU will be represented by Herman Van Rompuy, President of the European Council, and by José Manuel Barroso, President of the European Commission. Japan will be represented by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. European Commissioner for Trade Karel De Gucht, Commissioner for Research, Innovation and Science Máire Geoghegan-Quinn and Energy Commissioner Günther Oettinger will also be present.
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The European Commission has adopted the first of 28 "Partnership Agreements" that set down the strategies in EU member states and regions for European Structural and Investment Funds. Today’s agreement was signed with Denmark and will pave the way for €553 million (current prices) in total Cohesion Policy funding and €629 million for rural development to be invested in the country’s real economy.
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Yesterday, alongside the Europe–wide Alliance to Save the Bees and Agriculture we took a stand against the agrochemical industry. At the annual general meetings (AGMs) of Syngenta and Bayer we made ourselves heard on behalf of the bees, people and the planet. We were there to demand that agrochemical companies withdraw their legal challenge against the temporary ban of their bee-killer pesticides and clear the path to ecological farming practices.
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The European Commission has approved the addition of four new quality food products to the register of protected designations of origin (PDOs) and protected geographical indications (PGIs).
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A broad coalition of groups representing Europe’s agricultural and food business interests is calling for better and smarter policy-making that fosters innovation and creates jobs, ensuring that the EU agri-food chain becomes more productive and resource-efficient.
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Pakistan's Federal Minister for Finance Senator Ishaq Dar said on Monday the government will withdraw all levies and duties on potato import, if its prices in the local market are not brought down to less than Rs30 per kilogramme in the next 72 hours.
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Unilever has announced a third year of good progress on the Unilever Sustainable Living Plan, and an intention to expand further its sustainable living ambition to bring about broader change on a global scale.
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To prepare Western European agriculture for longer periods of drought and heat, researchers at Ghent University are breeding a new variety of grass that is more resistant to these conditions than those of the species currently sowed most often. The new variety, called Femelle, is part of the tall fescue species already often used in the less intensive agriculture of Southern Europe.
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Children growing up on and near farms are always curious about the big heavy equipment that moves earth, the animals that graze the pasture land, and chemicals and fertilizers that can be worked into the soil to produce healthy plants. These three areas can also be potential sources of danger, which is why Simplot launched the Safety Days program.
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A new name – Adama, innovative packaging, a digital strategy and a new farmer centric approach were unveiled by Makhteshim Agan at a meeting with the leading distributors of agriculture products in Northern Europe. Addressing the meeting Han Rupert, General Manager of Adama Northern Europe, explained how these changes were further steps in the company’s transition to becoming a major global player and how the company will play its part in helping farmers meet the considerable challenge of feeding the world.
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Today the factory in Antwerp celebrates the fact that 50 years ago the production of tractors was started. In the beginning complete tractors left the factory, as the Ford 2000-7000 serie, the TW range and eventually the TLB’s. Since 1996 the plant concentrates on producing and assembling the technical heart of the tractors.
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Bees are considered to be the "queens of biodiversity" but bee populations continue to decline as a result of a broken industrial agricultural system which intensively uses chemicals and large monoculture plantations -- a system which is promoted by a few agrochemical companies like Bayer, Syngenta and BASF.
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A new European Milk Market Observatory is being launched today by European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Dacian Cioloş. In light of the end of the milk quota regime on 31 March 2015, the Observatory will strengthen the Commission’s capacity to monitor the dairy market and help the sector adapt to the new environment, after some 30 years under a quota regime.
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Copa-Cogeca released the latest edition of it magazine today and manifesto for the upcoming European elections, setting out key priorities to ensure European farmers and cooperatives have a viable future and can meet upcoming challenges like growing world food demand.
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CEJA welcomes the decision of the EU Agriculture Ministers yesterday in Luxembourg on the set of Delegated Acts.
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Bayer CropScience and Targenomix GmbH, Potsdam, a spin-off of the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, have entered into a five-year research collaboration to develop and apply systems biology approaches for the exploration of metabolic and regulatory networks in plants.
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of April 2014 will take place in Luxembourg on 14th April 2014. The Commission will be represented by Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Cioloş. The morning and afternoon sessions will be entirely dedicated to agricultural issues. A press conference will be held in the afternoon at the end of the discussions.
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Cooperation between FAO and the EU reached a peak with the €1 billion EU Food Facility; the EU’s quick and massive response to rising food prices, set up in 2008.
A report published in 2013 on the Food Facility showed that in three years, it had improved the lives of over 59 million people in 49 countries, and provided indirect support for 93 million others (by for instance enabling people to benefit from increased opportunities for trade in the area, and to learn improved skills from neighbouring farmers). The report also showed that the €1 billion facility has led to the vaccination of over 44.6 million livestock, and helped to train 1.5 million people in agricultural production.
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The DLG Field Days 2014 (DLG-Feldtage) will feature the International Field Robot Event (FRE) for the first time, addressing the potential importance of this rapidly progressing field of technology for the agricultural industry.
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Syngenta announced today that it has acquired Società Produttori Sementi (PSB), one of Italy's oldest seed companies and a leader in durum wheat breeding and production for pasta.
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New Holland launched a new application for iPad and Android tablets, Farming News by New Holland Agriculture, developed specifically for farmers and others with an interest in agricultural topics. The app, now launched in the UK and the Republic of Ireland, meets the high demand for news aggregators and is unique in that it specialises in news tailored for the agricultural world. It will subsequently be extended to other countries and languages.
By making it easy to follow all the news from the agricultural world in one place and share interesting news items through the main social networks or by email, Farming News by New Holland aims to become the go-to app for farmers to start their day.
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The Commission contributes to bee health on many areas: On the veterinary side, the Commission: created an EU Reference Laboratory for bee health in 2011; co-financed voluntary surveillance studies to estimate the extent of bee mortalities since 2012; trained hundreds of national veterinary officials in bee health under the Better Training for Safer Food initiative since 2010, and ran research projects to deal with honeybee health. In addition, the Commission takes into account the limited availability of veterinary medicines for bees during the review of the EU veterinary medicinal products legislation. A Commission proposal is planned to be adopted in the second quarter of 2014.
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A total of €318 million of EU agricultural policy funds, unduly spent by Member States, is being claimed back by the European Commission today under the so-called clearance of accounts procedure.
However, because some of these amounts have already been recovered from the Member States the financial impact of today's decision will be some €315 million. This money returns to the EU budget because of non-compliance with EU rules or inadequate control procedures on agricultural expenditure.
Member States are responsible for paying out and checking expenditure under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), and the Commission is required to ensure that Member States have made correct use of the funds.
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Claims New Zealand potatoes do not pose a “substantive risk” to the Australian industry have been slammed as irresponsible and reckless by AUSVEG.
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The European Commission welcomes the fact that a tentative trilogue agreement has been reached between the Commission, the Council and the European Parliament on EU Promotion policy last night, subject to the formal approval by the different institutions.
Tonight’s compromise comes less than 5 months after the Commission tabled the legislative proposals last November.
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target of 10 percent growth in the agriculture sector, the Sri Lankan government says it aims at achieving national food security, ensuring a reasonable price for agricultural products and creating an uninterrupted access to competitive markets both in Sri Lanka and abroad for value added agricultural products.
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Copa-Cogeca welcomed today the election of Peter Kendall from the UK as new President of the World Farmers Organisation for a two year term. He will replace Robert Carlson.
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The European Commission (DG AGRI) has today opened a call for applications for groups wanting to participate in the new Civil Dialogue Groups related to EU Agriculture and Rural Development issues.
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Afghanistan would be self-sufficient in potato if proper cultivation and storage strategies were introduced in central Bamyan province, according to an official.
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Emergency measures proposed by the Commission to ban the import of certain fruits and vegetables [Colocasia sp (taro, eddo) Mangifera sp, (mango) Momordica sp (bitter gourd), Solanum melongena (eggplant) and Trichosanthes sp (snake gourd)] from India, were today endorsed by Member State experts meeting at the Standing Committee on Plant Health.
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Asaja, co-partnered by Copa-Cogeca and Ecpa, held a major cocktail reception in European Parliament today for the launch of a photo exhibition on the new Common Agricultural Policy 2014-2020: Future for farmers, future for society and outlined priorities for the future.
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Organic production is a system of farm management and food production that combines best environmental practices, a high level of biodiversity, the preservation of natural resources and the application of high production standards in line with the demand of a growing number of consumers for products produced using natural substances and processes. Organic production thus plays a dual societal role, where it, on the one hand, provides for a specific market responding to consumer demand for organic products and, on the other hand, delivers publicly available goods contributing to the protection of the environment, as well as to rural development.
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The European Commission has published new proposals for a new Regulation on organic production and the labelling of organic products. Consumer and producer concerns are at the heart of this new proposal, which seeks to address shortcomings of the current system. The EU organic market has quadrupled in size over the last 10 years and rules need to be updated and adjusted so that the sector can further develop and respond to future challenges.
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Bayer CropScience plans to substantially expand its site in Wismar, Federal State of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany, to enable it to meet the growing global demand for biological crop protection solutions. The planned investment includes the construction of a new manufacturing facility for biological crop protection products and the requisite infrastructure.
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In a high-level meeting with the Greek Presidency, Copa-Cogeca outlined key demands on the delegated acts for the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), warning that greening measures under reform must not result in additional set-aside and that the political deal on reform struck last summer must be stuck to.
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DuPont Pioneer, the agricultural seed unit of DuPont, said on Thursday it was launching a suite of "whole-farm decision" services aimed at boosting crop productivity, a line of business many in the agricultural sector are racing to offer.
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of March 2014 will take place in Brussels on 24th March 2014. The Commission will be represented by Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Maria Damanaki, and the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Cioloş and Commissioner for Health, Tonio Borg.
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The European and Chinese wine industries, respectively represented by CEEV and CADA, have reached an agreement which will lead to the termination of the Chinese investigations into European wine exports initiated in July 2013 and will provide the basis for technical cooperation and exchanges planned for the next two years.
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More than 600 exhibitors from all over the world on 60 000 m2 and more than 60.000 visitors have attended the XX° edition of the International Agricultural Exhibition AGROTECH 2014 which took place in Kielce, Poland, on 7-9 March 2014, this is the second biggest Central and East European agricultural fair with a great exposition of products and innovations.
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The European Commission has approved under the EU Merger Regulation the creation of a joint venture by AGCO Corporation of the US and Basic Element of Russia. AGCO Corporation designs, manufactures and sells agricultural machinery, such as tractors, combine harvesters, forage equipment, tillage, implements, grain storage and protein production systems.
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Copa-Cogeca warned today that the EU Commissions’ new climate and energy policy framework imposes a huge burden on the EU agriculture sector, threatening the EU’s competitiveness, green growth, employment and food supplies.
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At the end of December 2013 the Basic Regulations for the reformed Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) were published in the Official Journal, following their adoption by the European Parliament (EP) and the Council. This includes the regulations i) on Direct Payments, ii) the Common Market Organisation (CMO), iii) Rural Development and, iv) a Horizontal Regulation on the financing, management and monitoring of the CAP.
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The European Commission adopted today the first package of delegated acts for the reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) aiming at making the CAP fairer, greener and more targeted. Those texts supplement the four basic acts adopted on 13 December 2013 by the European Parliament and the Council for the reform of the CAP.
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Since 1895, New Holland is committed to providing solutions that improve farming efficiency and productivity by using accessible technology.
The long tradition in innovation is also a long tradition for the improvement of the new Roll-BeltTM Round Baler.
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Genetics, farm audits, government regulations, milk quotas, greenhouse gases, branding to the millennial consumer, employee training... every topic on the farm will be explored during The Three Pillars of Modern Farming: Genetics, Management, and Nutrition session at the “What If,” 30th Annual Alltech International Symposium. The event in Lexington, Ky., USA, from May 18-21 will ask farmers to consider opportunities outside the farm gate and explore the latest prospects for efficiency and profitability.
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The European Commission has approved the addition of a new quality farm product, the German " Höri Bülle " to the register of protected designations of origin (PDOs) and protected geographical indications (PGIs).
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Over three-quarters (77 %) of Europeans believe the common agricultural policy (CAP) benefits all EU citizens and over 90 % support the main trends of the new CAP, such as making aid fairer and more targeted (92 %) and linking the granting of aid to farmers to adhering to environmentally-friendly farming practices ('greening', 91 %). These are the main conclusions of the Eurobarometer survey on the CAP published today by the Commission.
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The last twenty years has brought unprecedented developments to Chinese agriculture, but it has also brought challenges that shook the whole food chain in recent years leading to an undermining of consumer confidence.
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In this latest Brussels Briefing on Agriculture, AGRA FACTS journalists Rose O’Donovan & Ed Bray provide an overview of recent developments regarding the European Union’s agricultural policy:
- The latest developments on the authorisation of the genetically modified maize 1507
- The first Farm Council under the Greek Presidency
- Debate on the future of the dairy sector
- Russian ban on European pork imports after the detection of swine fever in Lithuania and Poland
Featuring statements by: Health Commissioner Tonio Borg and Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Dacian Cioloş
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Today, the Belgian Prime Minister, Elio Di Rupo, visited New Holland Agriculture’s plant in Zedelgem Belgium. Mr Di Rupo received a guided tour of the production and engineering facilities by Geert Marivoet, the Plant Manager, he then met some employees and visited the customer centre. “We were pleased to welcome Mr Di Rupo to New Holland’s Centre of Harvesting Excellence in Zedelgem.” Stated Geert Marivoet, “This plant is the largest local employer, and we have doubled the number of people dedicated to research and development in the last four years, in order to develop cutting edge harvesting technology.”
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Potato Council acts as a knowledge house for Government raising the importance of the potato.
Two years since this work programme started there has been a real increase in knowledge about potatoes amongst parliamentarians with 83% now regarding potatoes as an important crop.
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CEJA, the European Council of Young Farmers, has adopted the Helsinki Declaration with an overwhelming majority at a Working Group following the MTK Seminar in Finland. The Declaration is the latest concrete CEJA policy document outlining the challenges facing young people attempting to enter the agricultural sector and the best ways to overcome them.
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Potato growers from throughout Washington state visited the state’s capital this week as part of the annual Potato Day event held in Olympia, Washington.
Potato growers took the opportunity to meet with legislators and agency officials to discuss issues impacting the state’s potato industry.
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Armenia is planning to increase exports of cognac, agriculture and tobacco products to China this year, Armenia’s premier Tigran Sargsyan said Friday, at his meeting with the delegation of Chinese communist party central committee headed by Chzhou Li. The premier said two countries have great potential for expansion of economic ties.
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The European Commission has approved the addition of four new quality farm products to the register of protected designations of origin (PDOs) and protected geographical indications (PGIs).
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The proportion of farmers receiving low amounts of direct payments decreased in 2012 relative to 2011, and the average amount of support paid to farmers as direct payments increased, particularly in the Member States that joined the EU in 2004 and 2007.
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking nominations for the United States Potato Board.
The board is composed of producers, importers and a public member, with approximately one-third of the board appointed each year.
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The first Competitiveness Council under the mandate of the Greek EU Presidency will take place in Brussels on 20-21 February 2014.
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Potatoes bred to make great potato chips were the feature attraction at the annual unveiling of new potato varieties at the federal Potato Research Centre in Fredericton this week.
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Thousands of honey bees in Australia are being fitted with tiny sensors as part of a world-first research program to monitor the insects and their environment using a technique known as 'swarm sensing'.
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This Executive Summary focuses on the highlights of ISAAA Brief 46, details of which are presented and discussed in the full Brief, “Global Status of Commercialized Biotech/GM Crops: 2013”.
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of February 2014 will take place in Brussels on 17th February 2014. The Commission will be represented by Commissioner for Health Commissioner Tonio Borg and Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Cioloş. There are no Fisheries points at the agenda of the Council. A press conference will be held at the end of the meeting, around 19.30.
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The organic sector is growing – in the Netherlands too. Forecasts assume that this trend will increase. The Netherlands has offered a broad spectrum of organically produced products for many years and these are also presented at BIOFACH.
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The College has decided to appoint two new Deputy Directors-General in the Agricultural and Rural Development Directorate-General.
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ESA takes note of the AGRI Committee’s decision to reject the Commission proposal on the production and making available on the market of Plant Reproductive Material. Over the past few weeks, there has been growing support for this position because of the very little time left before the end of this parliamentary term to finalise a position in first reading, the large number of delegated acts foreseen in the proposal, and the very technical nature of the file.
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The European Commission has approved the addition of two new quality farm products to the register of protected designations of origin (PDOs) and protected geographical indications (PGIs).
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Bob Vernon, an Agriculture Canada scientist, spoke to about 300 farmers on Prince Edward Island on wireworm, a pest he's been researching for 20 years.
The tiny pest burrows into crops and leaves holes that make them unmarketable.
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McCain Foods agriculture director John Jackson in Australia has admitted the company’s relationship with the region’s potato growers has been damaged in recent years.
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Green Agri Miles (P) Ltd. is organising KRISHI-21 “Conference cum Exhibition on Sustainable Agriculture” on 14thto 15thof February 2014 at Auditorium Hall, NBPGR, Pusa Campus, New Delhi. The theme of the conference is “Diversification led Agricultural transformation towards Greener Agriculture”. The major stake-holders, to work out a road-map and an action plan for harnessing the potential in sustainable agriculture, rural entrepreneurship, agro businesses and accelerating the growth of farm based enterprises are expected to participate.
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The European Investment Bank, the EU’s long-term lending institution, has agreed to increase engagement in Moldova to support agriculture and horticulture. This follows the success of an earlier lending programme launched in 2010, Filière du Vin, that has supported investment across the Moldovan wine industry.
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Nutreco reviewed business opportunities; concludes that strategic fundamentals of the strategy 'Driving sustainable growth', continue to be valid and strong
Management addresses intended divestment of large non-core businesses and market reality through new organisational structure, providing better execution power
New organisational structure also enhances innovation, partnerships and building up a portfolio of higher value-added nutritional solutions
Viggo Halseth, Chief Operating Officer Aquaculture, becomes Chief Innovation Officer in the new Executive Committee with effect from 6 February 2014 and will step down as member of the Executive Board. Jerry Vergeer, Chief Operating Officer Animal Nutrition and member of the Executive Board will step down from the Executive Board as per 6 February 2014. He will leave Nutreco with effect from 1 July 2014
The intended divestment, fewer sizeable value-creative acquisitions than foreseen and market developments in Norway leads to adjustment of the previous financial guidance to achieve € 400 million EBITA by 2016
New guidance: EBITA-margin to increase in the range from 5.5% to 6.5% (2013: 5.6%). Average organic sales volume growth Animal Nutrition 3% and Fish Feed 5%. Existing value-creative acquisition strategy maintained
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Over the past four years, the farm bill has been an agenda item at every National Potato Council (NPC) meeting, including the Potato D.C. Fly-In where we lobby Congress on our issues.
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In just over nine months from now it will be time for Interpoma 2014, the ninth edition of the Trade Show devoted to Apple Cultivation, Storage and Marketing, which will take place from 20-22 November in the Fiera Bolzano Exhibition Center (South Tyrol/Italy). The trade show's core attraction is the international congress "The Apple in the World", the apple industry's benchmark event. Coordinated by the Swiss fruit-growing expert Kurt Werth, this conference offers contributions from sector specialists and observers from all over Europe, the US and New Zealand.
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Young farmers and ranchers shared their view of the industry last weekend, identifying trends they’re most excited about as well as areas of concern.
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There are currently two separate EU-funded school distribution programmes under the EU's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) that specifically target children in schools: the School Milk Scheme (SMS), set up in 1977 and the School Fruit Scheme (SFS) set up in 2009/2010. Although there are differences in design and administration, the schemes basically aim at encouraging the consumption of fruit, vegetables and milk as these have proven benefits in terms of public health.
The School Fruit Scheme in particular was set up in the context of poor nutrition and increasing rates of child obesity, and on the basis that good habits established in childhood continue in later life.
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There are currently two separate EU-funded school distribution programmes under the EU's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) that specifically target children in schools: the School Milk Scheme (SMS), set up in 1977 and the School Fruit Scheme (SFS) set up in 2009/2010. Although there are differences in design and administration, the schemes basically aim at encouraging the consumption of fruit, vegetables (potatoes) and milk as these have proven benefits in terms of public health. The School Fruit Scheme in particular was set up in the context of poor nutrition and increasing rates of child obesity, and on the basis that good habits established in childhood continue in later life.
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The European Commission today published a proposal bringing together two currently separate school schemes, the School Fruit Scheme and the School Milk Scheme, under a joint framework. In a context of declining consumption among children for these products, the aim is to address poor nutrition more effectively, to reinforce the educational elements of the programmes and to contribute to fight against obesity.
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Results from the 2014 Global Feed Tonnage Survey released this week by Alltech revealed a one percent increase in feed production, with global feed tonnage reporting in at 963 million metric tonnes, up from 954 million metric tonnes last year.
Alltech assessed the compound feed production of 130 countries in Dec. 2013 through information obtained in partnership with local feed associations and Alltech’s sales team, who visit more than 28,000 feed mills annually.
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“The major troubles faced by the potato producers in Bulgaria were connected with irrigation,” said Ventsislav Kaymakanov, chairperson of the National Association of Potato Producers, said speaking for FOCUS News Agency.
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On Monday 27 January, Maria Damanaki, Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, will launch the European Commission's 'Inseparable' campaign to promote sustainable fishing across Europe at an event in Hamburg's International Maritime Museum, co-hosted by the city's mayor, Olaf Scholz. The event builds on the momentum of the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy which came into force in January 2014.
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The continued accumulation of heavy frost on plants for the past few days is feared to have damaged 75% of the tomato crop in the district of Karnal, while potato growers may have suffered losses over 20%.
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Yesterday, the European Parliament’s Committee for Agriculture adopted with a broad majority on an own-initiative report on plant breeding, looking at options and recommendations to improve crop quality and yields in Europe and highlighting the major issues facing Europe’s farmers and breeders in guaranteeing food security for Europe’s 500 million consumers and a growing world population. ESA European Seed Association welcomes this initiative as an opportunity for an informed and constructive debate on the value and role of plant breeding in modern societies.
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Prince Edward Island Potato Packer W.P. Griffin will get a combined investment of $372,490 from the provincial and federal governments to purchase new weighing and bagging equipment.
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A concerted effort has begun in Alberta Canada to raise awareness about the nastiness of late blight in tomatoes and potatoes.
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Potatoes South Australia Incorporated, the peak industry body for the potato industry value chain, has been awarded funding of AU$409,800 (excl GST) through the Federal Department of Agriculture’s National Landcare Innovation Grants for a two year project which will help develop a more reliable soil Phosphorus test.
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The medium-term prospects for agricultural markets and income in the EU (also known as medium-term outlook) consists of a set of market and sector income prospects elaborated on the basis of specific assumptions regarding macroeconomic conditions, the agricultural and trade policy environment, weather conditions and international market developments.
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The International Potato Technology Expo (IPTE) returns to the Eastlink Centre (formerly known as the Charlottetown Civic Centre) on February 21-22, 2014. This popular event has been running biennial in Charlottetown since 1992.
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Bayer CropScience is committed to helping raise agricultural productivity in Africa by giving smallholder farmers access to innovations and knowledge, said Marc Reichardt, Member of the Executive Committee of Bayer CropScience and Head of Agricultural Commercial Operations, at the 3rd AGCO Africa Summit in Berlin, Germany.
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Pharma.be – the Belgian federation of the Innovative Pharmaceutical Industries – is happy to welcome its new Communication Director, Sophie Van Malleghem.
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Arnaud Delacour , re- elected as Chairman of Copa-Cogecas Potato Working Party, outlined priorities for the EU potato sector today. These include making progress on determining a new EU promotion strategy for the sector.
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Following the successful first-time collaboration by the British potato and horticulture sector at Fruit Logistica 2013, Potato Council, Horticultural Development Company (HDC) and the Commercial Horticultural Association (CHA) return with their industries to this massive event in February 2014, to build their promotion of seed potatoes from Britain and raise the profile of the diversity and quality of UK horticultural crops.
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According to United States Department of Agriculture’s crop production predictions, average potato yield per acre increased during the 2013 season.
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Potatoes South Australia Incorporated, the peak industry body for the potato industry value chain, has been awarded funding of AU$409,800 (excl GST) through the Federal Department of Agriculture’s National Landcare Innovation Grants for a two year project which will help develop a more reliable soil Phosphorus test.
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The mashed potatoes or latkes that enhance your holiday feast have taken a long path from tuber to table – in many cases, several years.
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CEJA, the European Council of Young Farmers, welcomes the United Nations’ (UN) initiative of making 2014 the International Year of Family Farming and commits to contributing to the promotion of family farming and raising awareness of its role in the world throughout the coming year.
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The 4 basic EU regulations of the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) have been published in the Official Journal.
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The European Commission has approved the addition of 3 new quality farm products to the register of protected designations of origin (PDOs) and protected geographical indications (PGIs).
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Today the Members' Council of AVEBE today appointed Henk van Dalen (61) and Peter Poortinga (52) as members of AVEBE's Supervisory Board.
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The European Commission has published today a report exploring the possibility of introducing "product of island farming" as a new optional quality term, as requested by the current legislation on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs .
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The Commission today adopted a regulation aimed at raising the ceiling and clarifying the definition of small amounts of aid (de minimis aid) that can be considered not to constitute state aid.
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of December 2013 took place in Brussels on 16-17 December 2013.
The Council discussed and reached agreement on fishing opportunities for 2014 for the main commercial fish stocks of the Atlantic, the North Sea and the Black Sea.
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Copa-Cogeca welcomed today EU Farm Ministers approval of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reform package and urged them to ensure implementation rules will not add to farmers costs or increase red tape.
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Latest indicators confirm the ongoing structural trends in rural areas across the EU.
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Today's Council of EU Agriculture Ministers has formally adopted the 4 Basic Regulations for the reformed Common Agriculture Policy, as well as the Transition Rules for 2014. This follows on the approval of these Regulations by the European Parliament in November.
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After a wide-ranging public debate the Commission presented on 18 November 2010 a Communication on "The CAP towards 2020", which outlines options for the future CAP and launched the debate with the other institutions and with stakeholders.
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On 16 December 2013, CEJA, the European Council of Young Farmers, held a working group in Brussels on the subject of family farming and the implementation of the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
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Copa-Cogeca welcomed today EU Farm Ministers approval of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reform package and urged them to ensure implementation rules will not add to farmers costs or increase red tape.
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China will safeguard national food security and continue to pursue the sustainable development of agriculture, according to a statement issued after a four-day central economic work conference on Friday.
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Sebastian Ohirko – founder of the company have been interested in remote controlled flying platforms since his youth. Been experimenting with different remote controlled helicopters always trying to improve them. To make them useful in practical manner. The idea what driven him to the place he is today was to make use of that flying machines and bring measurable benefits to its users.
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EU28 real agricultural income per worker1 has decreased by 1.3% in 2013, after an increase of 0.3% in 2012, according to first estimates2 issued by Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union.
This decrease results from a fall in real agricultural income (-2.1%), together with a reduction in agricultural labour input (-0.9%).
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of December 2013 will take place in Brussels on 16-17th December 2013. The Commission will be represented by Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Maria Damanaki, Health Commissioner Tonio Borg, and Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Cioloş. A press conference on agriculture points will be held at the end of the discussions on Monday around midday and on fisheries points at the end of the Council meeting.
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Copa-Cogeca welcomed today the release of the new EU Research Work Programme 2014-2015 under Horizon 2020 and the launch of first calls for research projects. The programme will allow farmers and agri-cooperatives to participate and be fully engaged in all project phases, making a vital contribution to the research and innovation agenda.
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A report on the outcome of the recent conference 'The EU dairy sector: developing beyond 2015' has been published by the European Commission today.
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A total of €335 million of EU agricultural policy funds, unduly spent by Member States, is being claimed back by the European Commission today under the so-called clearance of accounts procedure. However, because some of these amounts have already been recovered from the Member States the financial impact of today's decision will be some €304 million.
This money returns to the EU budget because of non-compliance with EU rules or inadequate control procedures on agricultural expenditure. Member States are responsible for paying out and checking expenditure under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), and the Commission is required to ensure that Member States have made correct use of the funds.
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Copa-Cogeca welcomed today the “mini package” agreed in Bali in the world trade talks, stressing its commitment to the multilateral trade process and welcoming the progress made after years of standstill.
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New EU rules introducing origin or provenance labelling rules for fresh, chilled and frozen meat of pork, sheep, goat and poultry have been supported by a qualified majority of Member States in the Standing Committee on Food Chain and Animal Health yesterday. Under these rules, EU consumers will be able to know where the meat they buy comes from – a demand they have clearly expressed.
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The European Commission has published today a report exploring the possibilities of adopting a local farming and direct sales labelling scheme in the future, as requested by the current legislation on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs .
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Europe needs to do more to improve the availability of tailor-made plant-protection solutions for minor uses and specialty crops, participants confirmed at a major conference held in European Parliament today.
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Farmers from across the world united in Bali today calling on negotiators to agree on a “mini package” in the world trade talks which ensures a fair and balanced deal for farmers and agri-cooperatives.
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Kenya is betting on new varieties of potatoes to boost production and meet surging demand for fast foods by an expanding middle class.
Under a bilateral deal with lead potato seed producer the Netherlands, the government has cleared four new potato seed varieties for use by local farmers.
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Europe needs to do more to improve the availability of tailor-made plant-protection solutions for minor uses and specialty crops, participants confirmed at a major conference held in European Parliament today.
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A consortium of Flemish companies will, for one year, test an innovative purification system to treat residual water from the sprayer, within the project Modul-H2O with VITO/Vlakwa Open Call. The innovative technologies will be presented for the first time to the general public on the Delvano-booth (BRUSSELS EXPO, Paleis 1, booth 1107) during Agribex.
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Russia is a huge producer of potatoes, and is typically the third largest potato producer in the world after China and India. In 2012, Russia produced 29.5 million metric tons (MMT) of potatoes.
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The European Commission has today published a Report on "Genetic Resources – From Conservation to Better Use," outlining Commission aims for the period until 2020. While issues of conservation and halting biodiversity loss in agriculture remain a central element, the report highlights the need for a change of rationale with greater emphasis on an increased sustainable use of our genetic resources such as traditional or endangered breeds of animals or plants. The report is accompanied by a second document, reporting on existing programmes, as required by the end of 2013 under the current regulation.
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The European Commission has fined four European North Sea shrimps traders a total of € 28 716 000 for operating a cartel in breach of EU antitrust rules.
The companies are Heiploeg, Klaas Puul, Kok Seafood (all of the Netherlands) and Stührk (of Germany). Between June 2000 and January 2009 Heiploeg and Klaas Puul agreed to fix prices and share sales volumes of North Sea shrimps in Belgium, France, Germany and the Netherlands. Kok Seafood participated at least from February 2005 and Stührk was involved in price fixing in Germany in the period from March 2003 to November 2007. Klaas Puul received full immunity from fines under the Commission's 2006 Leniency Notice, as it was the first to provide information about the cartel.
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We tend to think of livestock farmers as "one man and his dog," but if AgResearch of New Zealand has anything to say, that pair may have to move over to include a robot. A team led by Dr. Andrew Manderson is developing AgriRover, an agricultural robot inspired by NASA’s Mars rovers. It’s a proof-of-concept prototype designed to show how robots can make life easier and more productive for livestock farmers.
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"Family farms are the foundations on which Europe's Common agricultural policy was built. They continue to stay at the heart of European agriculture as robust generators of competitiveness, growth and jobs, of dynamic and sustainable rural economies.
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Copa-Cogeca welcomed today the new EU Commission proposal to reform EU promotion policy, stressing it will greatly simplify administrative procedures and reduce red tape for industry.
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“I welcome today's vote by the European Parliament on the reform of the Common Agriculture Policy. This is an important day for European farmers, but also for all EU citizens concerned about the quality of their food and the sustainability of agricultural production methods. The reformed CAP will be better balanced between farmers, regions and Member States, with a special focus on young farmers. It will promote a competitive agricultural sector in Europe enhancing farmer's organisations, innovation and investments. It will be better targeted helping farmers in implementing concrete actions to fight against climate change, biodiversity loss and to increase water and soil quality. Now I look forward to the Council’s formal adoption of the legislative package. In the coming weeks, the European Commission will continue working on delegated acts working closely with experts from the Member States and the European Parliament to insure an efficient and smooth implementation of the political agreement.”
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Questions & Answers: Reform of the policy on information and promotion measures for agricultural products on the internal market and in third countries: the Commission adopts a legislative proposal for a new regulation
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The European Commission today presented a draft reform of the information and promotion policy for European agricultural and food products. This new promotion policy, which benefits from a more substantial budget and will in the future be supported by a European executive agency, is intended to act as key for opening up new markets. With the slogan 'Enjoy, it´s from Europe', the policy aims to help the sector's professionals break into international markets and make consumers more aware of the efforts made by European farmers to provide quality products, based on a genuine strategy established at European level.
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It’s been a busy week for raw milk!
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On 14 November 2013, CEJA, the European Council of Young Farmers, held a working group on the subject of “Innovation in Agriculture: Young Farmers are the Future” at Agritechnica in Hannover, Germany – the biggest agricultural machinery fair in the world. The working group, attended by 50 young farmers from across Europe, followed an announcement made earlier on in the week launching a new partnership between CEJA and Massey Ferguson.
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued the 2013 edition of the FDA Food Code on November 13, 2013.
Release of this model food code provides all levels of government and industry with practical, science-based guidance and manageable provisions for mitigating known risks of foodborne illness.
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In a strategic move to engage in agricultural water use efficiency, Yara has acquired the German water sensor company ZIM Plant Technology GmbH.
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“Agritechnica 2013 has impressively demonstrated the growing global significance of agriculture and agricultural machinery and equipment. With 2,898 exhibitors and some 450,000 visitors, including 112,000 from outside Germany, the fair has grown yet again.” These were the words of Dr. Reinhard Grandke, CEO of the organizer DLG (Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft / German Agricultural Society) at the close of Agritechnica, the international fair for agricultural machinery and equipment. The mood among exhibitors and visitors is positive. It is reflected in a high tendency to invest.
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The topic of diesel efficiency has only become an increasing focus for farmers in recent decades, following earlier decades of concentrating above all on timely and high quality performance of work with modern agricultural machinery and equipment.
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This is confirmed once again by the figures for this year's event. With around 2,900 exhibitors from 47 countries, the organizer DLG yet again reports an increase in the number of exhibitors.
This is some seven percent higher than at the last event in 2011.
At the same time the exhibition floor space has increased by approx. 11 percent to a good 42 hectares.
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Agriculture is eating into central Minnesota’s forests so aggressively that state regulators and a prominent legislator are sounding the alarm about threats to wildlife habitat and a large, sensitive aquifer that stretches below parts of four counties.
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The European Commission has approved the addition of four new farm products to the register of protected agricultural denominations.
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New Holland Agriculture, as part of CNH Industrial, and together with the automobile brands of Fiat S.p.A., is an official global partner of World Expo Milano 2015, alongside seven other leading global companies.
New Holland Agriculture will take centre stage with its own Sustainable Farm pavilion, embodying the brand’s industry-leading commitment to sustainable farming.
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There are more than 186 000 organic farms across Europe, cultivating an area of 9.6 million hectares, i.e. 5.4% of the total agricultural area in the European Union (EU), the report "Facts and Figures on Organic Farming" issued today by the European Commission points out.
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New Holland’s Clean Energy Leader® strategy perfectly reflects modern agriculture.
Since 2006, this commitment has been the driver for the development of numerous pioneering initiatives, built, created, shaped around the needs of farmers themselves, the machinery they use and the impact this has on the final consumers of their products, the world’s population.
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New Holland will unveil the Dual Stream header concept at the Agritechnica trade fair in Hannover, Germany, and this concept has already scooped a gold medal for innovation from the Agribex jury. Modern high capacity combines require efficient headers to unlock their full potential. The Dual Stream concept, when fitted to high capacity or Varifeed™ headers, can boost overall capacity by up to 15%, whilst reducing fuel consumption by up to 15%.
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In the highly competitive world of modern agriculture, farmers and contractors need to carefully control all input costs to maximise profitability and productivity. Following customer consultation, New Holland has developed the Precision Land Management cost savings calculator app. This enables users to calculate the potential cost savings different Precision Land Management (PLM®) solutions could bring. In addition, the Return on Investment is easily calculated using the intuitive app.
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New Holland Agriculture has reached the impressive production milestone of 50,000 TC conventional combines. This achievement will be celebrated in Plock, Poland, home of the TC in Europe, and in Curitiba, Brazil, the Latin American manufacturing plant later this month.
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From 10 to 16 November 2013, the Manitou group is taking part in the international exhibition on agricultural machinery, Agritechnica.
With 33% of its turnover in 2012, Manitou is making particular investments in agriculture, a strategic and demanding market.
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The European Commission has approved the addition of six new farm products to the register of protected designations of origin and protected geographical indications.
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€The European Commission has approved 22 programmes to promote agricultural products in the European Union and in third countries. The total budget of the programmes, the grand majority of which will run for a period of three years, is € 70 million, of which the EU contributes € 35 million. The selected programmes cover quality products registered and protected as PDOs (Protected Designations of Origin), PGIs (Protected Geographical Indications) and TSGs (Traditional Speciality Guaranteed), wines, meat produced under national quality schemes, organic products, milk and milk products, fresh fruit and vegetables (potatoes, ...), ornamental horticulture, honey and beekeeping products, beef, veal and pig meat, as well as quality poultry meat.
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Which Member States are the biggest producers of wheat, maize or barley? How much cow’s milk is collected by dairies in the EU? Which Member States produce the most drinking milk, cheese, butter or cream? And which produce the most meat from cattle, pigs or poultry?
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South African farmer Ralf Küsel has won a trip for two to Agritechnica 2013. The competition, which has been organised by the DLG, was open to South African farmers and visitors attending the Nampo Harvest Show held in South Africa earlier this year.
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Every two years Agritechnica welcomes farmers from all over the world to the Hanover Exhibition Grounds. Many will have grown up on family farms and taken over successful businesses, while others will have been introduced to the sector through education and taken on management roles in the industry.
A few, however, will be first-generation farmers that have started and built their own businesses. They have proved passionate about following their dreams and have overcome all obstacles and challenges that got in the way of achieving them.
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Around 400,000 people, approximately 14% of the UK workforce currently works in the food production and manufacturing sector, making it the UK’s second largest employer.
However, despite available jobs and rising unemployment amongst graduates, in recent years the number of students entering the Fresh Produce sector has steadily declined.
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The European Commission has appointed the 15 groups of independent experts to advise on priorities for Horizon 2020, the next EU research and innovation programme. The advisory groups are the most diverse yet, drawing on public, private and civil society sources.
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There has never been a more exciting time to be in the agricultural industry. A growing population, which by 2050 is expected to have reached 9bn, alongside cutting edge technology, growing globalisation and a changing climate makes this industry one of the most promising, and challenging, for the farmers of tomorrow.
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In Spain, a new potato organisation was established: "Foro Espanol de la patata", the Spanish Potato Forum.
Earlier this month, potato producer associations ASONAL, ASOCIAFRUIT, CIPP and ASOPOCYL; Agrofood Cooperatives; distribution associations ACES and ASEDAS; the Eroski group and potato trading companies Torribas and Pepsur Marketing SLU, formed the new organisation.
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While the potato industry is still waiting for clearance to be allowed to send fresh potatoes to Australia, a new market is rapidly opening up.
The industry has high hopes for a new market in Vietnam.
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Reacting to plans to cut ammonia emission by up to 30% in the upcoming review of EU air quality policy - which will have a severe impact on the EU agriculture sector - Copa-Cogeca warned that they are not realistic, achievable, cost effective or backed-up by science. The plans also fail to take into account reductions and investments already undertaken by the farm sector
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"I very much welcome the agreement on the 'Seasonal workers Directive', reached between the Parliament and the Council. After more than 3 years of negotiations a good solution has been found, harmonising the conditions of entry and residence and the rights of migrant workers coming to the EU for seasonal work. Non-EU seasonal workers make a serious contribution to the European economy and with the new Directive they will be granted a secure legal status for the entirety of their stay in order to protect them from exploitation. They will benefit from equal treatment for working conditions and access to appropriate accommodation.
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The Commission published today its latest Agricultural Brief on the financial implementation of rural development funding, which amounted to € 96.3 billion - roughly 20% of the Common Agricultural Policy's (CAP) total budget - between 2007 and 2013.
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For years now the New Holland 'Triangle Concept’ tracked drivetrain has proven its great capabilities in CR combine harvesters. With effect from the new 2013/2014 season, the conventional flagship combine harvesters, the CX7000 and the CX8000 can be fitted with this tracked drive as a factory fit option.
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On 29 October 2013, the President of the European Council of Young Farmers, Matteo Bartolini, addressed a high-level conference organised by the European Environmental Bureau (EEB) in Brussels, Belgium. The conference, entitled “From a grey deal to a green implementation of the future CAP?” focused on the rolling out of the greening measures and recommendations for biodiversity-friendly Rural Development policy post 2013. The CEJA President spoke on the panel focusing on the final Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) deal, and underlined the importance of young farmers in the environmental sustainability debate in agriculture.
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The Commission, the Council and the European Parliament (EP) have reached a political agreement on the reform of the Common Agriculture Policy – subject to formal approval by the Council and the EP as a 1st reading Agreement. Most elements were agreed in trilogue on June 26, and the last remaining issues (linked to the Multi-Annual Financial framework package) were finalised on September 24.
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• Ground-breaking Opti-Speed™ strawwalkers: up to 10% higher productivity
• Innovative Cornrower header: one-pass swathing reduces operating costs and improves bale density by up to 15%
• Harvesting innovations maximise sustainable food and energy production
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It began with a simple idea - to make farming more effi cient, while respecting the environment. As the Clean Energy Leader, we keep working year-round to create a more sustainable way of farming - learn more about conservation agriculture, a concept promoted by New Holland to improve soil quality and productivity, and the innovative implements designed with this in mind.
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The average farm size in the EU has increased by 3.8% per year in recent years, and the standard economic output has increased by 5.2% per year, according to the latest EU Agricultural Economics Brief published today by the European Commission.
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Jersey Royal exports in 2012 were down by more than 2,000 tonnes on 2011 levels, according to a report.
The Agricultural Statistics report says this amounts to a drop in income of about £2m. The report said the weather made it difficult for potato growing. It also found the land used for the crop has shrunk, albeit by less than 1%.
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Water pollution caused by nitrates has decreased in Europe over the past two decades, but agricultural pressures are still putting water resources under strain.
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ESA European Seed Association ended its 2013 Annual Meeting in Warsaw on Tuesday evening.
With more than 850 participants from Europe as well as an increasing number of delegates from other parts of the world, the Congress marked yet another all-time record for the association.
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On 27 September 2013, EDA organised its annual World Dairy Forum in Cologne, Germany. This year’s forum was entirely dedicated to dairy sustainability and its economic, social and environmental aspects. Mr. Michel Nalet, President of the European Dairy Association, opened the session and said he hoped to gain answers to three important questions: First, ‘How should we measure and communicate about sustainability?’; second, ‘What are the economic, social and environmental aspects of a sustainable dairy?’; and last, ‘What qualifies as dairy sustainability?’.
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The European Commission is launching a public consultation on draft new rules on block exemption for State aids in the agriculture and forestry sectors and in rural areas. Institutions, public authorities, organisations, companies and citizens are welcome to submit their contributions by 19 November 2013.
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The Amending Letter No 2 to the 2014 draft budget updates the estimates for agricultural expenditure in the 2014 draft budget and allows the Commission to make a separate proposal to the Council to adapt the rate of Financial Discipline foreseen for this year’s Direct Payments within the Common Agriculture Policy – to apply a rate of 2.45% [2.453658%], rather than the rate of 4.00% [4.001079%] previously introduced (see DN 10.10.13).
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of October will take place in Luxembourg on 17th October 2013. The meeting will focus solely on fisheries affairs and the Commission will be represented by Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Maria Damanaki. A press conference will be held at the end of the discussions (available by video streaming at http://video.consilium.europa.eu).
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The European Commission has approved the addition of the British " Fenland celery " and the Greek " Messara " ("Μεσσαρά") olive oil to the list of Protected Geographical Indications (PGIs) and Protected Denominations of Origin (PDOs), respectively as PGI and PDO.
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2013 World Food Day: EU Commissioners for Development, Andris Piebalgs, and for Humanitarian Aid and Civil Protection, Kristalina Georgieva on making sure that not only everyone has enough food to eat but also that it's the right food
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Forum for professional rice growers from all over the world – From soil preparation, seeding and water management to crop management, harvesting and conditioning of the crop – Information in Hall 17 at the Exhibition Grounds in Hanover
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The European Commission is launching today a communication campaign aimed at raising awareness of the importance of agriculture in our daily lives – and the role that the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) plays in supporting it.
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The name " Carn d’Andorra " has been formally registered today as a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI).
"Carn d’Andorra" is beef meat from the bruna d'Andorra breed or from crosses between cows of this breed and bulls of the Charolais, Limousin and Gascon breeds. The animals must be born, raised and slaughtered in Andorra.
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The President of the European Council of Young Farmers, Matteo Bartolini, addressed a high-level side event at the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)’s Committee on World Food Security (CFS) conference.
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Research and development for new crop protection products needed by European farmers is in decline, according to a new analysis of market trends in the EU and around the world.
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The European Commission has approved the request for registration of " Sklandrausis " into the list of Traditional Specialties Guaranteed, making this traditional Latvian pie the first Latvian farm product ("geographical indication") protected at EU level.
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A well-attended customer event marked the kick-off of a promising co-operation between Tratorcase and the Dutch Groeneveld Group, global supplier of automatic lubrication systems, Oilmaster oil management devises and active safety systems.
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Participating in the Food and Agriculture Organization Ministerial meeting on price volatility in Rome, Commissioner Dacian Cioloş stressed the importance of moving forward in terms of thinking and going beyond the Agricultural Market Information System's (AMIS) success: "The monitoring of agricultural markets will only be effective in vulnerable areas if it is accompanied by agricultural and governance policies, by public and private investments, as well as by trade and more structured regional and sub-regional markets. This means in particular transparent, clear and stable institutional environments." Commissioner Cioloş called in particular for concrete answers to issues in the area of land tenure, research and innovation as well as crisis management. Read the full speech .
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The European Commission has approved the addition of the German potato " Bamberger Hörnla / Bamberger Hörnle / Bamberger Hörnchen " to the list of Protected Geographical Indications (PGIs).
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The Short-term outlook is based on reflections of market experts within the Directorate General for Agriculture and Rural Development of the European Commission, using the latest data available. It is published three times per year (in late winter, early summer and early autumn).
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Copa-Cogeca released final EU-27 cereals estimates for the 2013/14 marketing year today, showing EU grain production is back to a good level and the quality is good reaching 298 million tonnes.
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Consumers' trust in organic products together with a demand for stricter rules at EU level, are among the main elements coming out of the report on the public consultation on the future of organic farming published today by the European Commission.
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Five Member States - Austria, Germany, Denmark, Poland and Cyprus, - exceeded their milk quotas for deliveries in 2012/2013, and must therefore pay penalties ("superlevy") totalling roughly € 46 million.
Despite the overrun of the quotas in these Member States, total EU deliveries remained well below (-6.0%) the total quota volumes, compared with -4.7% in 2011/12.
In addition, the Netherlands overshot its direct sales quota by 1 100t (1.4%) and faces a levy of €301 000.
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Following the example of the German Agricultural Society’s Field Days (DLG) in Germany the trade fair organizers IFWexpo Heidelberg GmbH and Expo-Volga are organizing the “International Field Days in the Volga Region” which will take place from July 2-4, 2014 in Samara/Russia.
The government and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food of the Samara region as well as the DLG are supporting this field event.
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The world's largest exhibition for agricultural machinery and equipment – Agritechnica, being held at the Exhibition Grounds in Hanover from 12 to 16 November 2013 (Preview Days on 10 and 11 November) – will be marked by a veritable fireworks of innovations (also in potato harvesters).
This is reflected in the 393 innovations submitted to Agritechnica organizer DLG (Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft – German Agricultural Society). Working on the basis of strict criteria, a neutral Commission of Experts assigned by DLG selected altogether four innovations deserving a Gold Medal and 33 innovations meriting a Silver Medal from among the submissions.
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The European Commission proposes to fully open the European Union's market to wine imports from the Republic of Moldova, in advance of the envisaged provisional application of the EU - Republic of Moldova Association Agreement and the related Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA), as a measure to ease some of the difficulties the Republic of Moldova is experiencing with its wine exports to some of its traditional markets.
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As Europe’s farmers continue to be confronted with increasing economic and environmental challenges, innovation and research are of vital importance for the agriculture sector to remain competitive.
That’s the main finding of a workshop held in Brussels on 25 September 2013 and jointly organised by ECPA, COPA-COGECA, Fertiliser Europe, ESA and CEMA. More than 100 participants, including farmers, industry, MEPs, European Commission and Council Representatives and other stakeholders, took part in the discussion.
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The European Parliament, the EU Council of Ministers and the European Commission have reached a political agreement this evening on the few issues on CAP reform (in the context of the Multi-Annual Financial Framework 2014-2020) that remained outstanding after the 26 June political agreement on the reform (see IP/13/613 and MEMO/13/621).
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More than Four hundred stakeholders representing governmental and non-governmental organizations, the EU institutions, and expert research and economic bodies will attend a conference next Tuesday (September 24) organized by the European Commission on "the EU dairy sector : developing beyond 2015".
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of September will take place in Brussels on 23rd September 2013, under the presidency of Mr Vigilijus Jukna, Lithuanian Minister of Agriculture.
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EU leaders from the European Farmers’ Organisation Copa today elected Albert Jan Maat as the new President for the period 2013-2015.
He will succeed Gerd Sonnleitner whose term-in office has expired.
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On 18 September 2013, CEJA President Matteo Bartolini addressed a high-level conference in Budapest, Hungary on the subject of “The New CAP – Evaluation and Impacts Expected by CEJA”, on the invitation of the Hungarian Minister for Rural Development, Dr Sandor Fazekas.
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Government support for agriculture in the world’s leading farming nations rose during 2012, bucking a long-term downward trend and reversing historic lows recorded in 2011, according to the latest version of an annual OECD report.
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The 2013 Fuji crop still one month away from being harvested and Alfa Fruit Packers would like to give you an early idea on this year's crop based on our information from the Agriculture Department of China as well as surveys, random sampling at the orchards by their employees. This estimate is assuming the weather conditions will be normal from now until the time the fruit being harvested.
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Existing EU measures for the apiculture sector have helped EU producers to maintain production of high quality honey in the EU, despite a difficult context with rising production costs, threats to bee survival and fierce international competition by honey imports from third countries, according to a Commission report published today.
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More than 140 potato growers, advisors and agronomists met at Frederick Hiam Ltd, Tuddenham, Suffolk at the end of August, 2013, for Potato Council’s East of England Potato Day.
Sponsored by Albert Bartlett, Branston, Fenmarc, Greenvale AP, McCain Foods and QV Foods the day comprised short technical presentations, followed by machinery and plot demonstrations.
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Over the next 5 years, northwest European potato prices are expected to gradually climb and elevated price volatility set to persist, according to a new report by Rabobank.
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The agricultural machinery industry is currently positioning itself with ideal prerequisites on the national and international key markets. “We are really flying high at the moment,” said VDMA Managing Director Dr. Bernd Scherer at the preliminary press conference for AGRITECHNICA 2013 last Wednesday in Hanover. He continued that the sector also expected “an excellent market development with a substantial increase of seven percent in turnover” after an extremely successful previous year.
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The organizer DLG (Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft – German Agricultural Society) reports outstanding stand-booking figures for the international trade fair for agricultural machinery and equipment, Agritechnica 2013, taking place at the Exhibition Grounds in Hanover from 12 to 16 November 2013 (Preview Days on 10 and 11 November). More than 2700 exhibitors from 47 countries represent a new record level. At present the number of exhibitors is about two per cent higher than the final figure two years ago.
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The general technical and social challenges in the coming years, such as the turnaround in energy policy, electromobility and networked production, also termed Industry 4.0, are predominantly driven by technology.
When mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and information technology join forces with the goal of steering development and production via the internet, we speak of Industry 4.0, the fourth industrial revolution after mechanization with hydro and steam power, mass production with the help of electric power, and the digital industrial revolution. This development in industry can also be observed by analogy in agricultural production.
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Agritechnica is the world's leading trade fair for agricultural machinery and equipment. The organizer DLG (Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft – German Agricultural Society) has recorded rising numbers of exhibitors and visitors ever since the first event in the year 1985. This year over 2,700 exhibitors from 47 countries will be presenting their new and further developments at the Exhibition Grounds in Hanover. A distinct hallmark of Agritechnica is its clear key area concept, offering visitors optimal orientation in the Exhibition Grounds.
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The European Union has granted Lebanon the right to export 50,000 tons of potatoes, reversing a decadelong export prohibition, the Lebanese Agriculture Ministry said Monday. Farmers in the Bekaa Valley and Akkar will be able to export produce under several conditions outlined in the decision made by the EU last month, ministry officials said.
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“And the winner is: HZPC with the Potatoshelf of the future.” With these words the Dutch Minister of Agriculture Sharon Dijksma, announced the winner of the Next Level Innovation Award of PotatoEurope 2013. She stressed the importance of a good quality and presentation of food products which according to her is shown to its right in the winning concept. Second and third prize winners were respectively HLB with the PlantCheck app and Restrain with a product for shelf life extension of packaged table potatoes.
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CEJA President Matteo Bartolini addressed Commissioner Ciolos, Agriculture Committee Chair Paolo De Castro MEP and all 28 EU farm ministers at the Informal Agriculture Council in Vilnius, Lithuania, on 10 September 2013. At this first Informal meeting of Ministers since the political consensus on the reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) was reached on 26 June 2013, the CEJA President seized the opportunity to congratulate the Institutions on the strong measures for young farmers included in the agreement but also called on them to make the most of these by using the measures available in order to secure the European family-farming model.
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At EU Farm Ministers informal meeting in Lithuania today, Copa and Cogeca Presidents underlined the importance of maintaining family farms, handed down for generations, to ensure vibrant rural areas. Research and innovation must be stepped up to enable them to benefit from new technologies to provide over 500 consumers with safe, quality, diverse food products.
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On September 11 & 12 PotatoEurope 2013 takes place in the most famous potato capital of the world; Emmeloord in The Netherlands.
PotatoEurope Emmeloord will be the heart of the international potato industry. We invite you to be a part of this event and meet colleagues, clients, potential clients, suppliers, researchers and all other services in the potato chain.
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Alien species are plants, animals, fungi and micro-organisms that have been transported across ecological barriers such as mountain ranges, or oceans as a result of human intervention, and have become established in an area outside their natural range.
About a quarter of these species are brought into Europe intentionally, for their beauty, usefulness or commercial value. Ornamental plants, species used as food or kept as pets are examples. But most of these species arrive by accident: about three-quarters of Europe's invasive alien species came in as contaminants of other goods, or hidden in transport vectors, or goods containers. There are currently more than 12,000 alien species in the European environment.
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The European Commission today proposed new legislation to prevent and manage the rapidly growing threat from invasive species. There are currently over 12 000 species present in Europe which are alien to the natural environment.
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A multinational effort supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency and the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization marked a key milestone this week when a Kenyan university debuted two new varieties of disease-resistant wheat to the nation’s farmers. Over the past two days, thousands of Kenyan farmers have visited Eldoret University in western Kenya for a two-day agriculture fair highlighting the latest farming technologies.
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On 29 August 2013, CEJA President, Matteo Bartolini, opened the conference to a hundred young farmers from across Hungary, Slovakia and the rest of Europe in Tata, Hungary. The young farmer from Umbria, Italy, gave an overview of the content of the recently agreed Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reform to the audience of young farmers, underlining the importance of the inclusion of a strong common installation policy in the new CAP, made-up of strong measures in both Pillars.
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During the week of Aug. 23, the National Potato Council (NPC) led a delegation of five U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) employees in a crop tour of the Columbia Basin growing area in Oregon.
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Farmers in the Kigezi sub-region will benefit from a Uganda Development Bank initiative that seeks to add value to their potatoes before they are put on the market. The initiative will involve the construction of a potato processing plant in the sub region.
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Imports of potatoes to Romania, fresh or refrigerated, grew by 2.4 times in the first four months of this year, compared to the same period of 2012, totaling 84,841.7 tons , according to data supplied by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MADR) about foodstuff.
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Agriculture experts worry that a severe drought that began in June may damage the rice harvest in central and eastern China this year, but add that it's too early to know whether the entire country will be affected.
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A total of €180 million of EU agricultural policy funds, unduly spent by Member States, is being claimed back by the European Commission today under the so-called clearance of accounts procedure. However, because some of these amounts have already been recovered from the Member States the financial impact of today's decision will be some €169 million.
This money returns to the EU budget because of non-compliance with EU rules or inadequate control procedures on agricultural expenditure. Member States are responsible for paying out and checking expenditure under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), and the Commission is required to ensure that Member States have made correct use of the funds.
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The Council of Agriculture and Water of the Spanish Region of Murcia estimates this year's potato production to reach 100,027 tonnes; an increase of 27% compared to the previous campaign, according to data provided by the Agricultural Associative and Statistical Services.
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China’s recent move to allow imports of genetically modified Argentine corn could be a sign that the country is ready to buy more GMO food products from the global market.
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The European Commission has added the denomination "Walbecker Spargel", a fresh white, green or violet asparagus produced in the north-west of Germany's North Rhine-Westphalia, along the German-Dutch border, to the list of protected geographical indications (PGIs).
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The European Commission has added the denomination " Kraški med ", a honey produced in Slovenia's Karst area, to the list of protected denominations of origin (PDOs).
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There has not been a single case of late blight reported on Prince Edward Island's potato crop this year, a situation agriculture officials are calling unusual.
There would usually be at least a few cases by now.
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The United States Potato Board (USPB), the nation’s potato marketing organization and the central organizing force in implementing programs that will increase demand for potatoes, named produce industry veteran, Blair Richardson, as President/CEO, effective August 1, 2013.
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Two truckloads of potatoes from the Gaza Strip have been denied entry into Jordan on the grounds that the beleaguered territory "does not produce potatoes".
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The European Commission has launched an on-line consultation on the role of family farming with a view to identifying key challenges and priorities for the future.
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Tom’s of Maine, a leading natural products company focused on oral and personal care, is looking to reduce end-of-life waste from its products even more by experimenting with biodegradable packaging made from potato starch.
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Potatoes and sweet potatoes are important staple foods in Africa, representing a significant share of the small farmers’ incomes.
The 9th Conference of the African Potato Association (APA) in Naivasha, Kenya, was therefore themed “Transforming potato & sweet potato value chains for food and nutrition security“.
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The State Government of South Australia has awarded AU$43,500 to the Potato Industry for initiatives to make sure workers have skills to meet increasing production demands.
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The Prince Edward Island Potato Board is hoping a new investment in oil seed research will help farmers make the most of a growing oilseed industry.
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A team of Argentinian scientists led by Fernando Bravo Almonacid, independent researcher of CONICET at the Institute for Research on Genetic Engineering and Molecular Biology (INGEBI, CONICET-UBA), developed potato plants resistant to Potato Virus Y (PVY), a disease that affects more than 50 percent and reduces crop productivity from 20 to 80 percent, in the most severe cases.
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Recently, the House Appropriations Committee approved an amendment offered by Rep. Mike Simpson (R-Idaho) to require USDA to include fresh white potatoes as part of its Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program. Rep. Simpson's amendment was adopted by voice vote as part of the FY2014 Agriculture Appropriations bill, which was approved by the committee later that day.
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David Thompson has recently been appointed President and CEO of World Potato Congress Inc, (WPC Inc) an organization headquartered in Charlottetown, PEI, Canada and dedicated to promoting the potato industry world-wide.
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David Thompson, President of World Potato Congress Inc., recently announced that Yanqing County, Beijing City, China, has been selected as the site of the 9th International World Potato Congress to be held July 28-30th, 2015.
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New Holland Precision Land Management (PLM) equipment gives you the information you need to maximize crop production and equipment performance. New Holland PLM equipment can be factory or field-installed on your new CR Series combine to match your precision farming needs.
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Catherine Geslain-Lanéelle, Executive Director of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), today announced that she is resigning to take up a new post as Director General for agricultural, agri-food and territorial policies in the French Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Forestry on 1 September 2013.
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The work of a multi-year research project, undertaken for the Australian potato industry, will come to fruition this month, with the launch of the project’s cutting-edge DNA soil testing service, which will help the industry to curb the impact of soil-borne diseases.
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The European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Cioloș is in Beijing, China, 22-24 July 2013, to strengthen EU-China cooperation in the areas of agriculture and rural development.
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Agrifirm has become a member of ‘Sustainable Agriculture Initiative Platform’ (SAI Platform). SAI Platform is primarily composed of large international food producers and supports the development of sustainable agriculture. Agrifirm’s membership establishes a link between food producers, farmers and growers.
Practical standards and calculation methods
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According to the second estimates of the economic accounts for agriculture (EAA) submitted to Eurostat by the European Union (EU) Member States at the end of January 2013, agricultural income per annual work unit (Indicator A) at EU-27 level is estimated to have remained stable in 2012 compared with 2011. However, agricultural labour input decreased slightly (- 0.2 %) in EU-27 compared with the previous year.
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According to the second estimates of the economic accounts for agriculture (EAA) submitted to Eurostat by the European Union (EU) Member States at the end of January 2013, agricultural income per annual work unit (Indicator A) at EU-27 level is estimated to have remained stable in 2012 compared with 2011.
However, agricultural labour input decreased slightly (- 0.2 %) in EU-27 compared with the previous year.
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Business opportunities from resource efficient production is the focus of today’s visit to China by European Commission Vice-President Antonio Tajani, Commissioner for Industry and Entrepreneurship, and Janez Potočnik, Commissioner for Environment.
Green growth is now high on the political agenda for the EU and China – both are interested in achieving sustainable growth while maintaining and improving the state of their respective environments.
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The European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Cioloș will visit Mongolia, 18-21 July 2013 to discuss prospects for increasing cooperation with the Mongolian authorities in the fields of sustainable agriculture, food security and rural development.
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As the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) announced it had granted a temporary six-month price adjustment for all classes of milk, Secretary Karen Ross admitted to the industry that the current, “antiquated” system is unsustainable in a letter to the industry’s stakeholders.
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The German agricultural engineering company, Claas, is planning a significant expansion of its business in China thanks to the majority take-over of the Chinese agricultural machinery manufacturer, Shandong Jinyee Machinery Manufacture Co. Ltd. (Jinyee), in Gaomi in the province of Shangdong.
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The world quietly reached a milestone in the evolution of the human diet in 2011. For the first time in modern history, world farmed fish production topped beef production. The gap widened in 2012, with output from fish farming—also called aquaculture—reaching a record 66 million tons, compared with production of beef at 63 million tons.
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The Commission has today adopted a decision declaring aid in the form of deferred payment granted by Italy to milk producers liable to the Italian State for the amount of the milk levy which Italy had paid to the Union budget on their behalf under an aid scheme approved by Council Decision (Decision 2003/530/EC) to be incompatible with the internal market.
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The 8th international AgroTech Russia trade fair will take place in the All-Russian Exhibition Center (VCC) in Moscow from 9 to 12 October 2013. The largest trade fair for agricultural machinery and crop production to be held in Russia this year, it is being supported by the Ministry of Agriculture of the Russian Federation and by Moscow City Government.
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The European Commission has cleared under the EU Merger Regulation the proposed acquisition of sole control over the German agricultural trading company Bohnhorst Agrarhandel GmbH by rival BayWa AG. Bohnhhorst Agrarhandel is currently jointly controlled by BayWa and the holding company Wilhelm Bohnhorst (see case M.6751).
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China’s wheat harvest will fall this year for the first time in a decade, US officials warned, as raising their estimate for imports, and signaling that the dent to quality may be far higher than has been thought. China’s wheat harvest, the world’s biggest for a single country, will fall by 2.6 million tons to 118 million tons the US Department of Agriculture’s Beijing bureau said, downgrading its forecast…Full-text article: BlackSeaGrain July
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Chinese inspectors are expected in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley next month to undertake the next step in a recent trade deal involving cherry exports.
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Jerzy Wierzbicki from Poland, elected today as new Chairman of Copa-Cogeca’s Working Party on Promotion of Agricultural Products, urged the EU Commission to release the new legislative proposal to reform EU promotion policy. The move comes after the EU Commission released a Communication on this last year. Mr Wierzbicki will look at ways to ensure that future policy boosts promotion of EU agriculture produce both internally and on expanding world markets.
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This year total cereal production in the EU-271 is forecast to be well above 2012 levels and above the average of the past five years. This agricultural year has so far been marked by an unusually prolonged winter for western and central Europe and heavy rainfall in May and June. However, the impact of poor weather on crops in some areas of the EU has been offset in other areas; for example, the Iberian Peninsula is expecting an excellent season.
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A rise in autumn planting of cereals and favourable weather conditions in recent months, especially in the South of Europe, are likely to see a higher EU cereals harvest this year that could bring market relief and higher stocks in marketing year 2013/14, according to the Commission's Summer 2013 Short Term Agricultural Outlook published today.
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The organizer DLG (Deutsche Landwirtschaftsgesellschaft – German Agricultural Society) reports that 2,200 exhibitors from 46 countries have already registered for the international exhibition of agricultural machinery and equipment, Agritechnica, to be held in Hanover from 12 to 16 November 2013 (Preview Days on 10 and 11 November).
This encouraging stand booking result is around 10 per cent higher than it was at the same time for the record event two years ago, says Agritechnica Project Manager Freya von Rhade.
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The government of Flanders gave its final approval to the Flemish Climate Programme for 2013-2020 last week, presented by environment minister Joke Schauvliege.
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China will be increasingly dependent on animal feed ingredients in international markets in the next decade to serve its growing demand for meat, according to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation & Development (OECD) and the Food & Agriculture Organisation.
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A political agreement was reached in Brussels during the trialogue negotiations on the Common Organisation of Agricultural Markets between the EU Parliament, the Commission and the Member States, which came to an end on Wednesday.
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On 27 June 2013, CEJA, the European Council of Young Farmers, elected its new Presidency for a two-year mandate at the 2013 General Assembly in Brussels, Belgium, which took place the day after the final deal on CAP reform was agreed, including a mandatory measure for young farmers in its first pillar.
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The current regime of national sugar production quotas will only be extended until 2017, voted the European Parliament on 26 June as part of final agreements on reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) for 2014-2020.
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The Commission, the Council and the European Parliament (EP) have today reached a political agreement on the reform of the Common Agriculture Policy – subject to formal approval by the Council and the EP as a 1st reading Agreement once the texts have been formalised in all languages. Based on the Commission proposals from October 2011 (see IP/11/1181 and MEMO/11/685), the agreement relates to four basic European Parliament and Council regulations for the Common Agriculture Policy – i) on Direct Payments, ii) the Single Common Market Organisation (CMO), iii) Rural Development and, iv) a Horizontal Regulation for financing, managing and monitoring the CAP.
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The European Parliament, the EU Council of Ministers and the European Commission have reached an agreement on reforming the common agricultural policy (CAP) post 2013. "I am delighted with this agreement which gives the Common Agricultural Policy a new direction, taking better account of society's expectations as expressed during the public debate in spring 2010. This agreement will lead to far-reaching changes: making direct payments fairer and greener, strengthening the position of farmers within the food production chain and making the CAP more efficient and more transparent. These decisions represent the EU's strong response to the challenges of food safety, climate change, growth and jobs in rural areas. The CAP will play a key part in achieving the overall objective of promoting smart, sustainable and inclusive growth", said Dacian Cioloş, European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development.
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This afternoon, COMAGRI MEPs accepted the political agreement on all four dossiers of the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) 2014-2020 following a renegotiated mandate from the Agriculture and Fisheries Council under the Irish Presidency. Over 18 months after the European Commission released its legislative proposals for CAP in October 2011, the three institutions finally came to compromise agreements on all of the open issues involved.
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Copa-Cogeca outlined today actions EU farmers and agri-cooperatives are carrying out to reduce food wastage and to avoid spoiling food or food produce uselessly. Copa-Cogeca supports collaborative actions with other stakeholders to change the behaviour along the food chain from primary producers to consumers to minimise food losses and food waste.
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In its monthly package of infringement decisions, the European Commission is pursuing legal action against Member States for failing to comply properly with their obligations under EU law. These decisions covering many sectors aim at ensuring proper application of EU law for the benefit of citizens and businesses.
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The Agriculture Council meeting of June will take place in Luxembourg starting on June 24, under the presidency of Mr Simon Coveney, Irish Minister of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The Commission will be represented by Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Dacian Cioloş. A delegation of MEPs, headed by EP Agriculture Committee Chairman Paolo De Castro, will also be present in Luxembourg.
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Biofuel production is not the reason for high and volatile prices, which are caused by traditional market fundamentals such as oil prices, exchange rates, weather extremes and ad-hoc trade policy restrictions. This finding is one of the results of a new study that was presented today during a press conference organised by Ufop, VDB, Copa-Cogeca in Brussels.
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European Commissioner for Development, Andris Piebalgs, is about to sign a new agreement to support smallholder farmers and promote agricultural conservation in Zambia, during his first ever visit to the country (18-20 June). Thanks to this partnership, which will be signed with the UN’s Food and Agriculture organisation (FAO), local farmers will benefit from an average increase of 40% in household revenue. This new initiative will receive €11.1 million in EU funding.
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On Thursday 6 June 2013, CEJA, the European Council of Young Farmers, was represented at the National Young Farmer Congress of CEJA French member organisation, Jeunes Agriculteurs in Metz, France by President Joris Baecke.
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Maria Damanaki, European Commissioner for Fisheries and Maritime Affairs has welcomed the agreement on a new, reformed fisheries policy for the EU reached between the Council of Ministers and the European Parliament.
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On 28 May 2013, CEJA President Joris Baecke addressed all 27 EU Ministers for Agriculture, the European Commissioner Dacian Cioloş, and COMAGRI Chairman Paolo De Castro, on the subject of the CAP reform.
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Activists around the world are gearing up for a weekend of rallies to protest Monsanto, the biotechnology giant accused of genetically engineering agriculture and food while turning a blind eye to their potentially deadly health ramifications.
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It’s the free advice every decent florist delivers when you buy their potted plants: how much water they need, and how often. And it’s not just the occasional flower buyer who needs guidance on watering as even experienced farmers can misjudge how much to sprinkle on their crops, leaving them either parched or drenched.
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The EU is looking for a short(ish), snappy name which could be used to identify agricultural products and foodstuffs produced on a farm and sold in short supply chains.
So far, these products are usually called "local products". If you have an idea for a better name, why not help us in our search?
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Of course. Your product must be correct. There must be a need in the export market, which you have been looking at.
Also you need to satisfy all requirements in all kinds of areas, from documentation to and including phytosanitary.
But without going there and building a personal relationship one will not be successful in a foreign market.
A discussion with Piet de Bruijne of Farm Frites about the approach to internationalization follows...
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The European Commission has approved under the EU Merger Regulation the acquisition of Lieken of Germany by Agrofert of the Czech Republic. Agrofert is active in various sectors including: agriculture; chemicals and food, in particular industrial bakery products. Lieken manufactures and supplies bread and cake products and other products.
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On 14 May 2013, CEJA, the European Council of Young Farmers, and MEP Milan Zver held their third round table on young farmers in the European Parliament in Brussels entitled: “Young farmers ensuring sustainable growth for Europe’s future”.
The event featured a number of high-level speakers from all three European Union (EU) institutions and attracted an audience made up of young farmers from across Europe, a number of MEPs and Member States’ representatives as well as other European stakeholders.
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FAO and the international Slow Food organization agreed today to develop joint actions to improve the livelihoods of smallholders and others working in rural areas.
Under a three-year Memorandum of Agreement signed here the two organizations will join forces to promote more inclusive food and agriculture systems at local, national and international levels.
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The 2013 Agrievolution Forum will focus on global food security and farm machinery solutions, as well as examine farm equipment markets across the globe. This world summit brings together top government officials, agriculture equipment manufacturers and other leading industry stakeholders to share knowledge and collaborate on key global agricultural issues.
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Earlier today, CEJA President Joris Baecke presented Commissioner Dacian Ciolos, COMAGRI Chair Paolo de Castro and President of the Agricultural Council Simon Coveney with the outcome of CEJA’s celebrated Future Food Farmers campaign in the form of three keys.
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A conference on the potential contribution of geographical indications ("GIs") to African, Caribbean & Pacific (ACP) countries' economies is taking place in Brussels tomorrow.
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In a meeting with the Irish Presidency today, Copa Vice-President Lorenzo Ramos urged EU Farm Ministers to get a good deal on the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) by June and outlined key issues needed to achieve this.
The move came as EU Farm Ministers debated the issue and negotiators intensified trialogue talks to hammer out a final deal on the CAP.
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Copa-Cogeca and key stakeholders outline detailed response to new EU Commission package on healthier animals and plants for a safer food chain
At a high-level Conference organized with the Irish Presidency, Copa-Cogeca and other key stakeholders presented detailed views on the EU Commission package designed to strengthen animal and plant health, seeds and safety measures in Europe.
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of May will take place in Brussels on 13th and 14th May 2013, under the presidency of Mr Simon Coveney, Irish Minister of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The Commission will be represented by Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Dacian Cioloş and Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Maria Damanaki.
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The European Commission has approved seven new requests for registration of denominations as Protected Denominations of Origin (PDOs) and Protected Geographical Indications (PGIs).
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On 27 February 2013, CEJA, the European Council of Young Farmers, organised a round table discussion on the subject of “Enhancing youth employment in agriculture for a more sustainable Europe”. Based on discussions between social partners that followed presentations from experts, the round table’s rapporteur, Professor Lebailly, drafted a set of EU-level policy recommendations across three themes: Access to Vocational Education and Training, Access to the Profession and Access to Public Support.
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06/05/2013
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The European Commission has today adopted a package of measures to strengthen the enforcement of health and safety standards for the whole agri-food chain. Food safety is essential to ensure consumers' confidence and sustainability of food production.
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On Saturday, 4 May 2013, the European Commission's in-house science arm opens its doors at the Ispra site in Italy. Thousands of visitors are expected for the traditional bi-annual Open Day.
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A total of €230 million of EU agricultural policy funds, unduly spent by Member States, is being claimed back by the European Commission today under the so-called clearance of accounts procedure.
However, because some of these amounts have already been recovered from the Member States the financial impact of today's decision will be some €227 million.
This money returns to the EU budget because of non-compliance with EU rules or inadequate control procedures on agricultural expenditure.
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Today, EU Member States did not reach a qualified majority – either in favour or against - in the Appeal Committee1 which discussed a Commission proposal to restrict the use of 3 neonicotinoid insecticides.
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) today announced the launch of the State National Harmonization Program (SNHP) for seed potatoes. This program is a collaborative effort between APHIS, the National Potato Council, the United States Potato Board, the National Plant Board, and state seed certification agencies.
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ECPA regrets to see the rejection of a proportionate and evidence-based approach and the lack of a robust scientific basis for this ban
Friedhelm Schmider, Director General of European Crop Protection Association (ECPA) commenting after the vote in the Appeal Committee on the neonicotinoid issue: “We are deeply disappointed by this decision.
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The European Commission has approved 22 programmes to promote agricultural products in the European Union and in third countries. The total budget of the programmes, the large majority of which will run for a period of three years, is € 71,94 million, of which the EU contributes € 35,97 million. The selected programmes cover olive oil, milk and milk products, meat, fresh and processed fruit and vegetables, organic products, eggs, wines and spirits and horticultural products, as well as quality products registered and protected as PDOs (Protected Designations of Origin), PGIs (Protected Geographical Indications) and TSGs (Traditional Speciality Guaranteed).
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Scientists from Aarhus University have tested whether extract of potato protein could be used to prevent scours (diarrhea) in young pigs – but the results produced by a foreign research group turned out to be non-reproducible.
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Copa-Cogeca welcomes the EU Commissions’ new package designed to advance action on adaptation to climate change.
Copa-Cogeca also welcomed publication of the Commissions’ Green Paper on insurance which looks at natural and man-made disasters and aims to help deal with catastrophes like forest fires, droughts - we will make a positive contribution to it.
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of April 2013 will take place in Luxemburg on 22 April 2013, under the presidency of Mr Simon Coveney, Irish Minister of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
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The European Commission has today published proposals to provide transitional arrangements in 2014 for certain Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) rules, notably the system of Direct Payments. Although the Commission is working intensively with the European Parliament and the Council to reach a political agreement on CAP reform – and remains optimistic that this can be concluded before the end of June – so that the new legal regulations can be in place from January 1, 2014, it is not realistic for Member States to have all the necessary administrative procedures in place by the start of next year.
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A team of Virginia Tech researchers has succeeded in transforming cellulose into starch, a process that has the potential to provide a previously untapped nutrient source from plants not traditionally thought of as food crops.
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The international organic sector gathered again in the Exhibition Centre Nuremberg two months ago at BIOFACH and VIVANESS – their annual highlight in the exhibition calendar. 41,794* trade visitors from 126 countries were delighted with the customary high-quality, varied and innovative products from the 2,413 exhibitors, 207 of them at VIVANESS. Two trends stand out in the exhibition analysis: Some 6,000 specialist retailers (category: retail trade, organic food & health food) came to the world’s leading exhibition again in 2013, which corresponds to 16 % of the buyers. The international share of total attendance rose from 41 to 44 %.
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On April 5, USAID Mission Director Stephen Haykin distributed emergency-funded seed potato in the villages of Ghulelebi and Simonaantkhevi– two of the six communities in Dusheti and Tianeti municipalities which sustained severe damage in the July 2012 hail storm.
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Development and diamonds were on the agenda of Flemish minister-president Kris Peeters during a week-long visit last week to southern Africa. The first port of call was Malawi, where Peeters was met by president Joyce Banda, who visited Brussels last October at Peeters’ invitation.
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CEJA, the European Council of Young Farmers, has been speaking at several high-level events this week on the subject of greening measures in the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
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Why, after the vote at the European Parliament and the last Council of EU Ministers of agriculture, is CAP reform not already adopted?
The new ordinary procedure under the Lisbon treaty (former "codecision" procedure) is applied for the first time for a CAP reform.
That is why, following the vote by the European Parliament (March 13) and the agreement among EU Agriculture Ministers (March 19) – finalising their respective negotiating mandates – the final phase of negotiations on CAP reform starts today (April 11), with two trilogues gathering together representatives of the European Commission, Council and European Parliament to negotiate on the Direct payment proposal and the SCMO.
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45 000 responses have been submitted to the online questionnaire on the future of organic farming in Europe launched by the European Commission on 15 January, and which ended yesterday.
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The Commission is organizing today in Brussels a meeting of business leaders and policymakers from sub-Saharan Africa and the EU.
The objective is to map out strategies for boosting agriculture and the food processing sector in Africa, so as to develop the sector's strong potential for growth, strengthen food security and support development in rural communities.
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Under the Common Agricultural Policy, EU rural development policy grants are made available to enterprises that process and market agricultural products through a measure called ‘Adding value to agricultural and forestry products’ that aims to improve the competitiveness of agriculture and forestry.
The EU budget has earmarked € 5.6 billion in aid for 2007-2013.
This financing is complemented by national spending, which brings the total public funding to € 9.0 billion.
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With high demand for potatoes in Europe driven by low supplies throughout the continent, Israeli potato growers are enjoying robust prices for their produce. Though locusts threatened the potato and carrot seasons in the region, quick action by the nation's agricultural industry dealt with the problem and resulted in plentiful supplies of potatoes and carrots for a European market that's hungry for these products.
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Chinese fishing boats catch about US$11.5 billion worth of fish from beyond their country’s own waters each year – and most of it goes unreported, according to a new study led by fisheries scientists at the University of British Columbia.
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Unilever today announced it is sourcing more than a third of its agricultural raw materials sustainably, having made significant progress towards its target of 100% by 2020. With 36% now sourced sustainably, it has exceeded the interim milestone of 30% it set itself in 2010 when launching the Unilever Sustainable Living Plan.
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The Commission has today adopted the final distribution of EU funds for the distribution of fruit & vegetables in schools – under the so-called "School Fruit Scheme"- for the 2013/2014 school year. Some 24 Member States (plus Croatia upon accession) have decided to participate in the programme for the coming year with only Sweden, Finland and the United Kingdom opting out.
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Celebrating International Water Day, which is dedicated in 2013 to water cooperation, Copa-Cogeca showcased results from its workshop organised together with the European Water Platform (WssTP) on innovative agricultural water management solutions.
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The Commission is publishing today its annual report on the global distribution of direct payments by Member State, with final data for 2011.
It shows that direct payments are still not equally distributed among beneficiaries in Member States: on average, 80% of beneficiaries receive around 20% of payments (however with important differences between Member States).
This figure has been a feature of CAP support for many years, which the Commission is seeking to address in its reform concept.
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Jørgen Hald Christensen CEO - Danish Dairy Board Director – Dairy - Danish Agriculture & Food Council Chair of the EDA Food and Environment Policies Committee
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Draft Report: Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development (COMAGRI): European Parliament
Dr. Michael Keane (Consultant, ex Univ. College Cork)
Dr. Declan O Connor (Cork Institute of Technology)
Brussels March 20th 2013
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The small hive beetle and the Tropilaelaps mite are currently not found in the EU but if established in this region could affect the health of bees, the beekeeping industry and the production of honey. EFSA’s experts have identified the risks of introducing these pests in Europe, following a request from the European Commission.
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CEJA, the European Council of Young Farmers, welcomes the agreement on the negotiating mandate of the European Agriculture and Fisheries Council for the reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) 2014-2020.
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The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Simon Coveney TD, has described as a watershed moment today’s agreement by European Agriculture Ministers of a Council position on the reform of the CAP. Following marathon talks in Brussels, Ministers this evening accepted a package of proposals tabled by the Irish Presidency, and successfully concluded what is known as a General Approach on the CAP reform package.
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of March will take place in Brussels on 18 and 19 March 2013, under the presidency of Mr Simon Coveney, Irish Minister of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
The Commission will be represented by Dacian Cioloş, Commissioner for Agriculture & Rural Development.
Both days will be dedicated to agricultural matters as the Council seeks to agree a negotiating mandate on CAP Reform.
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The Macra na Feirme-CEJA Seminar started on Monday morning, with interventions from both the European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Cioloş, and Irish Minister for Agriculture and Chair of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council of Ministers, Simon Coveney. European young farmers then participated in workshops in the afternoon, during which they analysed and discussed current Rural Development policy in relation to young farmers as well as the European Commission’s proposals for the future CAP. The recommendations by young farmers resulting from these discussions were then discussed and elaborated on in a CEJA working group on Wednesday, compiling them into the Dublin Declaration, which was then adopted.
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Today’s European Parliament vote constitutes an important step forward in the Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) reform process. This is the first time that we have had full co-decision on reforms to the CAP, and the Parliament has backed a negotiating position, respecting the tight timetable. Once the Council has also defined its negotiating position, we will be in a position to start the last phase of the reform negotiations.
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The European Federation of Food, Agriculture and Tourism Trade Unions (EFFAT) welcomes today’s vote by the European Parliament to extend the current regime of national sugar production quotas until 2020, rather than scrap the system from 2015. The plenary fully accepted the text voted by the European Parliament’s Agriculture and Rural Development Committee on 23 January and rejected all amendments.
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The European Commission welcomes the European Parliament's approval today of two new laws to improve EU rules on monitoring and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions, including those from forestry and agriculture. It is expected that the Council adopts these laws, after which they will be published in the Official Journal and will enter into force.
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Copa-Cogeca held a major press conference in Strasbourg today urging MEPs to make a rapid and positive decision on the future Common Agricultural Policy to end the uncertainty facing farmers and agri-cooperatives and ensure they have a viable future.
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The Commission is publishing today its short-term market outlook for arable crop, meat and dairy markets in the EU. The report highlights that increasing autumn sowings could help relieving market tightness in the EU.
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Brussels, 7 March 2013
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“We were particularly successful in our agriculture business – our second life-science area – in 2012,” Dekkers said.
CropScience increased sales by 15.5 percent (Fx & portfolio adj. 12.4 percent) to EUR 8,383 million (2011: EUR 7,255 million) in an attractive market environment.
This growth was due largely to good business with new products in Crop Protection and rapidly expanding sales at Seeds. Environmental Science also developed favorably.
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More than 160 potato growers and industry partners from across the United States met Feb. 25-28 in Washington, D.C., to advocate for the industry's most pressing federal policy priorities. During the four-day Potato D.C. Fly-In, grassroots activists met with federal regulators at USDA and EPA, and took to Capitol Hill, meeting with 129 U.S. Senate and House offices, including 42 which had not been contacted during previous Fly-Ins.
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The Commission is publishing today a study analysing the value of the EU name protection scheme for all food and agricultural products ("geographic indications" or "GIs"), including wines and spirits. 60% of sales of European GI products took place in the country where these products originate, while 20% took place in other EU countries and a further 20% were exported outside of the EU.
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With close to 1,700 companies representing around 40 different countries, the SIMA-SIMAGENA, which was held at Paris-Nord Villepinte from 24 to 28 February 2013 over more than 25 ha, attracted record numbers.
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Birds Eye and Taco Bell have admitted for the first time that their beef in the UK contains horsemeat after it was found in three of their products.
Birds Eye had previously withdrawn the ready meals as a precaution after horse DNA was found in chilli con carne in Belgium.
But the latest rounds of tests show that Birds Eye traditional spaghetti bolognese and beef lasagna contain at least 1% horsemeat.
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Europatat and the Czech Potato Association (UBS) are pleased to announce the opening for registrations for the annual Europatat Congress, taking place in Carlsbad (Czech Republic) from 30 May 2013 till 1 June 2013.
On the official congress website www.europatatcongress.eu all information regarding the registration and programme can be found.
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The European Commission is publishing today a comprehensive study on "Support for Farmers' Cooperatives". The objective is to provide background knowledge to help farmers organising themselves in cooperatives, so that they can rely on a solid market income.
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Fast Food chain McDonald's France has promised to serve "100% French" French Fries before the end of the year in all its 1260 restaurants.
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Exports of U.S.-made agricultural equipment increased 16 percent in 2012 compared to the previous year for a total $12.8 billion, with Africa leading the way in growth, according to the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), citing U.S. Commerce Dept. data it uses in global markets reports for members.
AEM said the 16-percent gain for 2012 follows 23-percent growth in 2011 and 12 percent-growth in 2010, after a 2009 decline of 23 percent in the depths of the recession.
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Today, CEJA held a round table in Brussels in cooperation with the University Agro-Bio Tech de Gembloux (ULg) and with the support of European Commission DG Employment’s Unit for Industrial Relations and Social Dialogue. European young farmers, EU decision-makers and agricultural stakeholders participated in discussions which resulted in drafting concrete recommendations to secure the future of European food production.
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Colloque de l'INRA, Salon de l'Agriculture / Paris
Le 26 février 2013
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A total of €414 million of EU agricultural policy funds unduly spent by Member States is being claimed back by the European Commission today under the so-called clearance of accounts procedure.
Member States are responsible for paying out and checking expenditure under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), and the Commission is required to ensure that Member States have made correct use of the funds.
This money returns to the EU budget because of non-compliance with EU rules or inadequate control procedures on agricultural expenditure. Formally speaking, because some of these amounts have already been recovered from the Member States the net financial impact of today's decision will be some €393 million.
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The Belarusian booth at the international agro-industrial expo Sima 2013 in Paris enjoys great popularity among visitors. On the opening day of the exposition four visitors expressed readiness to acquire Belarus tractors, BelTA learnt from the Belarusian embassy in France.
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From 24 to 28 February 2013, Manitou group takes part in SIMA in Paris (France), Paris international agri-business show. Agriculture, a strategic sector for the Manitou Group, represented around 33% of its revenue in 2012, even if the market is more complex and volatile.
SIMA is an opportunity for Manitou detailing its approach to its enduser through a mathematical formula for profitability: Acquisition + Use - Resale Value = Elevate your profits
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New Holland has significantly enriched the virtual farming environment with three key mobile apps: the New Holland Weather app, the iBrochures app and an engaging FarmGenius PLM-focussed game. All three apps have been a hit with users across the globe, with up to 80,000 downloads from over 100 countries.
These three apps form part of New Holland’s overarching digital strategy to provide useful online tools for the worldwide agricultural community.
As farmers are working increasingly long hours, they are ever more reliant on information which they can access whilst in the field to enhance their businesses’ productivity and profitability.
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of February will take place in Brussels on 25 and 26 February 2013, under the presidency of Mr Simon Coveney, Irish Minister of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
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Livestock and dairy producers can’t afford to ignore what goes on in the rest of the world, says Scott Brown, University of Missouri livestock and dairy economist.
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Excellent stand booking figures by manufacturers from home and abroad are emerging for the world’s largest specialist exhibition for agricultural machinery and equipment – Agritechnica 2013 – to be held in November this year. Registration figures to date paint a clear picture. Numbers are ten percent up on the figures for the comparable period before the last event in 2011. The organizer, the German Agricultural Society (DLG / Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft ) is therefore expecting attendance by more than 2,700 exhibitors from Germany and other countries this year.
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The European Commission is today bringing together experts to advise a new partnership in agriculture research and innovation. The European Innovation Partnership (EIP) "Agricultural Productivity and Sustainability" (EIP) was set up to help meet the challenges of food security, sustainable resource management and environment preservation. The EIP aims to ensure faster transfer of innovative research results from science into practice, encourages the sharing of knowledge and experience, and will help provide more systematic feedback to the scientific community about what research is needed.
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The European Commission has added the traditional Catalan bread " Pa de Pagès Català " to the list of protected geographical indications (PGIs).
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Joris Baecke, President of the European Council of Young Farmers (CEJA), was speaking in Kiev, Ukraine on Monday 18 February at a workshop on the subject of young farmers co-organised by the European Commission and the Ukraine Chambers of Agriculture within the framework of the European Neighbourhood Partnership (ENP). Mr Baecke presented CEJA’s work, structure and achievements at EU level in a bid to suggest a model for potential representation in Ukraine.
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New Holland’s BigBaler range of large square balers has further cemented its position as the industry-leader with a coveted SIMA Silver Innovation Medal. The international jury of agricultural experts were particularly impressed by the cutting-edge safety features, which enhance operator safety with a zero-tools approach, whilst maintaining best-in-class outputs.
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When a pathogen attacks a plant, infection usually follows after the plant’s immune system is compromised. A team of researchers at the University of California, Riverside focused on Phytophthora, the pathogen that triggered the Irish Famine of the 19th century, and deciphered how it succeeded in crippling the potato plant’s immune system.
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Prof André Jooste recently took over as CEO of Potatoes South Africa (PSA), after nearly six years at the National Agriculture Marketing Council (NAMC).
He spoke to Robyn Joubert of Farmers Weekly (South Africa) about his vision for the future.
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Numerous ministers of agriculture from around the world welcomed German Food Minister Ilse Aigner at their national stands during her official tour at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2013. Her first stop on Wednesday afternoon was the stand of partner country Peru. Here, together with Minister of Foreign Trade Jose Luis Silva Martinot, her Peruvian counterpart Milton von Hesse and Dr. Christian Göke, Chief Operating Officer of Messe Berlin GmbH, she cut the red ribbon, officially opening the 21st FRUIT LOGISTICA. Accompanied by Global Brand Manager Gérald Lamusse, Aigner was then told by Uruguay's Minister of Agriculture Tabare Aguerre that food safety was his key policy focus. Morocco's Secretary General at the Ministry of Foreign Trade El Aid Mahsoussi spoke highly of his country's produce.
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Copa-Cogeca regretted EU Heads of State and governments’ decision today to make extra cuts in the future EU budget 2014-20 for the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), on top of those already proposed by the EU Commission. The decision will mean a 15% reduction in CAP spending, threatening the employment of 40 million in the agri-food sector and millions more in rural areas. With food demand expected to increase by 70% by 2050, it also puts food security at risk.
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La Commission européenne a ajouté la dénomination "Gruyère" à la liste des indications géographiques protégées (IGP). Le fromage ayant une origine commune, franco-suisse, l'appellation "Gruyère" (France) coexistera avec celle de "Gruyère" (Suisse), protégée au sein de l'Union dans le cadre de l'accord UE-Suisse de 2011 sur les indications géographiques.
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Many consumers know about the healthy effects of fruit and vegetables (incl. potatoes), but they no longer have an emotional connection to fresh produce. These were the words of Dieter Krauß, President of the German fruit trade association at the FRUIT LOGISTICA 2013 opening press conference. He believes that this is due in large part to the retail industry, where fresh produce is advertised almost exclusively on the basis of price. In order to restore consumers' appetites for these healthy sources of vitamins, the fruit trade association has developed the qualification "Fruit and vegetable retail industry specialist".
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Statement by EU Trade Commissioner Karel De Gucht, Health and Consumer Policy Commissioner Tonio Borg, and Agriculture and Rural Development Commissioner Dacian Cioloş on the re-opening of the Japanese market for imports of EU beef and beef products since 1 February 2013 and on today's endorsement by Member States to allow beef imports from Japan to the EU
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The European Commission is publishing today a study on the "Labelling of agricultural and food products of mountain farming" reviewing farming in mountain areas. This study looks at existing labelling schemes for mountain products in EU Member States.
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In a high level meeting with Irish Farm Minister Simon Coveney today, Copa-Cogeca welcomed the Irish Presidencys ambitious agenda which focuses on getting an agreement on the future Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and on fisheries reform by June at the latest.
The move came as the Presidency presented the priorities to EU Farm Ministers today.
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The European Commission is today launching a public consultation on the review of two programmes, the European School Milk Scheme and School Fruit Scheme, respectively providing dairy products and fruits and vegetables to children in schools.
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ULSTER Farmers’ Union President Harry Sinclair has welcomed the swift implementation of legislation to help protect the local potato industry’s ‘high health’ status.
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The European Commission is referring Poland to the EU Court of Justice for failing to guarantee that water pollution by nitrates is addressed effectively. Europe has strong legislation on pollution from nitrates, and although the requirements have been applicable in Poland since 2004, too little has been done. Poland has still has not designated a sufficient number of zones that are vulnerable to nitrates pollution, and measures to effectively combat nitrates pollution in these zones have not been adopted.
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of January 2013 will take place in Brussels on 28 January 2013, under the presidency of Mr Simon Coveney, Irish Minister of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The Commission will be represented by Maria Damanaki, Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Dacian Cioloş, Commissioner for Agriculture & Rural Development and Tonio Borg, Commissioner for Health and Consumer Policy.
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Copa-Cogeca welcomed today the timely vote by European Parliament Agriculture Committee on the future Common Agriculture Policy (CAP). A rapid and positive decision on the new CAP and the EU budget 2014-2020 is vital to end the uncertainty currently facing farmers.
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Having finalised its voting recommendations on the European Parliament’s compromise amendments to three out of the four proposals for the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) at a CEJA Working Group in Sweden on Monday, CEJA has requested particular votes from MEPs ahead of today’s Committee vote. CEJA requested positive votes on certain compromises covering young farmers’ measures in both pillars, the greening of direct payments and the single CMO.
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The cost of the CAP is less than 1% of EU government’s total public expenditure and compares, for example, with 39% spent on social security. Yet the returns are equally enormous.
The CAP plays a vital role in ensuring food security, employment and stability in the agri-food sector and more widely in rural areas. Nearly one in six people work in the agri-food sector.
Thanks to the CAP, agriculture has not only been an extremely important stabilising force during the recent economic difficulties, it has also played a major role in European integration and the building of the Single Market, being the only sector governed by a truly common policy. The CAP budget represents a very small investment for substantial and wide-ranging returns for European citizens which are sometimes taken for granted. If we are to maintain these benefits, we must also maintain a strong CAP backed by a strong budget.
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Today FEFANA - the EU Association of Specialty Feed Ingredients and their Mixtures - proudly celebrates the milestone of its 50 years’ existence
The first statutes of FEFANA were signed on the 22nd January 1963 by the National Associations in Belgium, France, Germany, Italy and the Netherlands.
The founding members had the forward vision of forming a European Association to act as an interface between the feed additives manufacturing industry as a whole and the European Union, then European Economic Community (EEC), and its Member States authorities.
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Kenya is expected to benefit from this bilateral agreement with the government of the Netherlands to produce new varieties of potatoes and boost potato growing in Kenya.
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The Commission has published today its medium term forecasts, "Prospects for Agricultural Markets and Income in the EU 2012-2022" projecting the trends for major EU agricultural commodity markets until 2022. Based on a set of assumptions, EU commodity markets are projected to remain balanced - on average - over the outlook period.
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European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)’s reports on neonicotinoid-based pesticide provide no ground to challenge their current safe use in practice, and is instead limited to potential risks.
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The European Commission is launching today an online consultation aimed at all citizens interested in organic production in Europe. The consultation will feed the reflexion on a new framework regulation, as called for by the Commission in its report of May 2012 on the implementation of the current regulation. European organic production rules cover the whole production chain from farm to fork.
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Recent consumer potato consumption trends point to significant growth opportunities for the U.S. potato industry, according to new research unveiled yesterday at POTATO EXPO 2013.
The research, conducted by Datassential, a leading food industry market research firm, and sponsored by Bayer CropScience, shows that nearly half (43 percent) of consumers surveyed report they increased their potato consumption last year. Forty-six percent report eating potatoes several times per week at home or away from home, with 14 percent eating potatoes daily or more than once a day.
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Cargill today reported net earnings of $409 million in the fiscal 2013 second quarter ended Nov. 30, compared with $100 million in the same period a year ago. In the first six months, earnings totaled $1.38 billion compared with $336 million in the prior year. Second-quarter revenues rose 6 percent to $35.2 billion, which brought first-half revenues to $69 billion
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Wheat output in India, the world’s second-biggest producer, may reach a record for a seventh year as cold weather boosts yield prospects and record domestic prices spur planting, potentially boosting exports. Futures in India fell for a seventh day.
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U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has appointed 30 members to serve on the National Potato Promotion Board.
Each member will serve a three-year term of office beginning March 1, 2013.
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Farm-state lawmakers have agreed on a one-year extension of a farm law that, if enacted, would head off a possible doubling of US milk prices to $7.OO or more a gallon in 2013.
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Guaranteeing quality to consumers and a fair price for farmers are the twin aims of the new Council Regulation on quality schemes for agricultural products that enters into force today. Based on the Commission's 2010 proposal, it provides consumers with information on products' characteristics, protects product names from misuse and imitation and encourages the diversification of agricultural production.
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From this academic year on, you can already choose between the options vegetable production or animal production within the first year of the agricultural specialization. This makes the training fit even better with your own interests! Moreover, within the study area Agriculture and Biotechnology you decide for more than 60 study points your own program.
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Wheat futures rose for a second day in Chicago as freezing temperatures may have damaged some winter grain in Russia and on speculation three weeks of declines have made U.S. supplies more competitive.
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A public consultation on the state aid rules applicable in the agricultural and forestry sector has been opened by the European Commission today, with stakeholders invited to provide their comments in the next 3 months.
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Organised by Sud de France Développement and the Languedoc-Roussillon Regional Council, the 2013 Medfel event shines the spotlight on citrus fruits and celebrates Egypt as its featured country. For this fifth edition, orange will be the signature colour. This international trade fair for professionals working in the Euro-Mediterranean fruit and vegetable, transport and logistics sectors will be held in Perpignan on 22 - 24 April 2013 at the Parc des Expositions (Exhibition centre).
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A public consultation on the state aid rules applicable in the agricultural and forestry sector has been opened by the European Commission today, with stakeholders invited to provide their comments in the next 3 months. The consultation takes place in the context of the Commission's State Aid Modernisation (IP/12/458) initiative.
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A first for British exports in 2013 will be a joint stand from Potato Council and the Horticultural Development Company (HDC) at Fruit Logistica in Berlin in February next year.
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More than 8 million children and 54.000 schools benefited from the School Fruit Scheme (SFS) in 2010/11, according to a new report on the implementation of the EU scheme. Although the scheme only started in the autumn of 2009, initial results show that it has been successfully embedded in Member States and that its efficiency is increasing. Of the 27 Member States, only Finland, Sweden & the UK have chosen not to implement it.
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Migl Feed and Grain, an agricultural supply company located in Hallettsville, Texas, will join the J. R. Simplot Company's Grower Solutions network.
"Our goal at Simplot Grower Solutions is to continue to grow our business by expanding our reach in strategic areas such as the Texas Gulf Coast as we focus on meeting customer needs," said Dave Dufault, head of Simplot Grower Solutions retail stores. "Migl fits in very well."
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On 10 December 2012 the Commission adopted its second report on the evolution of the market situation and conditions for a smooth phasing out of the milk quota system, as requested by the Council as part of the 2008 CAP Health Check.
The report, which has been forwarded to the Council and the European Parliament, concludes that the "soft landing" is on track: in the vast majority of Member States, quotas are no longer relevant to limiting production and the quota price (paid by farmers seeking additional quota) is already zero or close to zero.
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At the United Nations Climate change Conference (the COP18) in Doha, which ended Friday, Copa-Cogeca highlighted the increasing role climate change plays in farmers’, forest producers’ and agri-cooperatives’ management decisions and on their economic viability.
Food security can no longer be taken for granted. Sustaining and enhancing food production, which can happen at the same time as tackling climate change and cutting greenhouse gas emissions, must consequently be a policy priority for all governments.
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Galileo and GMES/Copernicus are complementary systems making use of satellite technologies.
Both systems have their strategic value as each of them has its own mission, which do not overlap. Galileo is essentially a ‘navigation’ system providing a permanent and more accurate than ever positioning and timing services worldwide.
GMES/Copernicus is an ‘Earth observation’ system providing information on the state of our environment and improving the security of our citizens.
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The Maine Potato Board is pleased to announce the selection of the 2013 Young Farmer of the Year - Shawn Doyen of Willard C. Doyen & Sons Farm. Doyen lives in Mapleton with his wife Christi and their two children, Taylor, 7 and Charles, 3
Growing up on the family farm sparked an early agricultural interest in Doyen. He started assisting in daily tasks beginning at age 11.
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Dairy farmer Bob Andrews feeds heifers in the same barn his grandfather used. He says today "the harder you work, the further you get behind."
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The 16th edition of INTERPOM | PRIMEURS in Kortrijk Xpo shot past the record-breaking number of visitors at the last event: with an amazing 17 678 visitors this year, INTERPOM | PRIMEURS clocked up a spectacular 25.7% more visitors.
These statistics prove beyond a shadow of doubt that INTERPOM | PRIMEURS is the most successful specialised indoor trade fair in Europe – or even the world – for professionals from the entire potato, fruit and vegetable chain, from growing to processing and marketing. 2012–13 was a challenging and surprising season for the potato sector and together with the high prices, this was an extra reason to visit INTERPOM | PRIMEURS to keep a weather eye on future market developments and consider new investments.
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of November 2012 will take place in Brussels on 28 & 29 November 2012, under the presidency of Mr Sofoklis Aletraris, Cypriot Minister of Agriculture, Natural Resources & Environment. Wednesday's session will deal with agriculture issues (under the aegis of Agriculture & Rural Development Commissioner Dacian Cioloş), while Thursday's session will deal with the fisheries (Maritime Affairs & Fisheries Commissioner Maria Damanaki) and health and consumers points (Health and Consumers Commissioner Tonio Borg).
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Copa-Cogeca regretted today the lack of an agreement at the EU Summit on the future EU budget 2014-2020, warning a speedy and positive decision is vital so that a final decision can be made on the future CAP in time for implementation in 2014.
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On Friday 23 November, Commissioner Maria Damanaki will be delivering a keynote speech at the high-level conference “European aquaculture: the path for growth”, organised in La Coruna, Spain, by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Environment of Spain and the Government of Galicia together with the European Commission.
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In the run up to EU heads of state and governments talks on the future EU budget 2014-2020, Copa-Cogeca welcomed today EU Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso calls for a good EU budget to finance a strong, modern, competitive Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) in the future.
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Europeans enjoy among the highest standards of food safety in the world, and together we will preserve and build on that proud record. That was the message with which the European Food Safety Authority’s Executive Director closed this week’s successful joint conference with the European Commission’s Directorate General for Health and Consumers (DG SANCO) in Parma.
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On Wednesday 14 November Europatat, the European Potato Trade Association, celebrated its 60th Anniversary with a policy event in the Brussels Museum of Natural Sciences. Besides an industry debate focusing on food marketing trends, Members of the European Parliament Mairead McGuinness (EI, EPP) and George Lyon (UK, ALDE) discussed the role of EU policies for the potato trade (e.g. CAP reform).
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“With 2,445 exhibitors and around 160,000 visitors, including 38,000 international visitors, EuroTier 2012 has reached new record levels”, announced Dr. Reinhard Grandke, Chief Executive Officer of the organizer DLG (Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft – German Agricultural Society), speaking to the press in Hanover at the close of EuroTier on 16 November 2012. With this result EuroTier has impressively demonstrated its great pulling power for animal husbandry farmers and experts from all over the world and further consolidated its leading position as the world’s top event for professional animal husbandry. BioEnergy Decentral at EuroTier has become firmly established as the world forum for decentralized energy supply.
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Replant diseases are the theme of the second day of "The Apple in the World" convention currently held at Interpoma, the international apple industry trade fair organised by the Consorzio Mela Alto Adige at the exhibition centre in Bolzano.
The first speakers were Robert Wiedmer, from the Alto Adige Consultancy Service for Fruit and Wine Growing, and Martin Thalheimer, from the Laimburg Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry. They illustrated practical experiences and the results of tests carried out on land hit by fruit growing replant diseases in Alto Adige.
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Hanover, Germany (13 November 2012) At EuroTier 2012, the world’s largest trade show dedicated to agriculture, DeLaval barn system controller BSC™ was awarded the EuroTier silver medal for innovation. The system integrates barn environment and cow comfort to ensure healthy, productive cows and maximum milk yield. It’s the only integrated solution for dairy barns available on the market.
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Hanover, Germany (13 November 2012) At EuroTier 2012, the world’s largest trade show dedicated to agriculture, DeLaval unveiled its teat spray robot TSR – an automatic post spray solution offering consistent application, optimal use of teat dip and less labour.
The unique technology is designed to facilitate high capacity milking in rotary parlours while helping to maintain farm profitability.
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Without a doubt you have felt something from the earthquake with OptiServe as epicenter! When you think: “earthquake”? Do not worry, because this ‘only’ involves a revolution in optical sorting technique!!!
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The name " 平谷大桃( (Pinggu Da Tao) " has been formally registered as a Protected Denomination of Origin (PDO) for a peach belonging to a species of Prunus grown in the hills and countryside of the Yanshan Mountains in the Pinggu region of the Beijing District.
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The European Commission has added six denominations of agricultural and food products to the list of protected denominations of origin (PDOs) and protected geographical indications (PGIs).
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The future of agriculture lies not with new technologies or policies but in the hands of today's youth. In recognition of the important role the young of today play in shaping tomorrow's agricultural landscape, EuroTier 2012 welcomes all young farmers and students with a series of career-oriented talks at Young Farmers Day.
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The development of competitive animal production in the CIS countries, and especially in Russia, Kazakhstan and Ukraine, is currently being targeted and supported politically. These countries, which aim to become self-sufficient with products of animal origin, are investing considerably in promoting livestock and poultry farming.
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On October 24, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the purchase of 240 metric tons of dehydrated potato granules and 320 metric tons of dehydrated potato flakes under the McGovern-Dole Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program.
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The 16th edition of INTERPOM PRIMEURS will be held from Sunday 25 to Tuesday 27 November 2012 in Kortrijk Xpo (Belgium). With the new record number of 255 exhibitors and the entire filling of the exhibition complex at Kortrijk Xpo, INTERPOM PRIMEURS confirms its position as the most specialised indoor trade fair for the whole potato, fruit and vegetable sector in Europe, from the grower right through to processing and marketing.
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While rising temperatures in some places may improve the productivity of bananas, conditions may also become more favourable for certain pests and diseases.
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This year aquaculture will be celebrating its ten year anniversary at EuroTier, the top event for professional animal production. Aquaculture, which will be presented in Hall 23, fits into this international exhibition perfectly. Not only are fish farms and fish consumption on the rise but many livestock farmers are now contemplating fish farms as an investment in addition to their other livestock businesses.
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Potatoes with higher levels of beneficial carotenoids are the result of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) studies to improve one of America's most popular vegetables.
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Maine farmers were not affected by the severe drought that affected the Midwest this summer, and Maine potato producers are harvesting "a quality crop" this season, according to state agriculture officials.
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Proposals for Young Farmers’ measures in both Pillars of the CAP are achievable. Alternative proposals, which weaken the priority for young farmers in both pillars, will not address the escalating age crisis in European agriculture.
The CEJA President calls on the Farm Council to adopt the Young Farmers Scheme across both Pillars.
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pate in a Field Walk event at the Vasse Research Station, located in the south west agricultural region of WA, to hear about current research into potato pests, diseases and viruses, and to take a tour of the facility’s research paddocks.
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Today, EU Commissioner for Development, Andris Piebalgs, and the President of Malawi, Joyce Banda, signed two agreements which will help Malawi to reach the Millennium Development Goals. The EU will contribute to a new government programme designed to strengthen agricultural productivity and expand the area under irrigation. With this programme, Malawi aims to increase its maize yield by two thirds and almost double household incomes in agriculture. This will contribute to the goal of 6% of annual growth in Malawi.
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Today, the Commission published a proposal to limit global land conversion for biofuel production, and raise the climate benefits of biofuels used in the EU. The use of food-based biofuels to meet the 10% renewable energy target of the Renewable Energy Directive will be limited to 5%.
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Your Excellencies,
Dear guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,
Welcome. Welcome to the gathering we organise each year after the Annual General Assembly of Fedagrim. We are very honoured to have several ministers amongst us this year. In particular, we would like to welcome Minister Sofoclis Aletraris, the current President of the European Council of Agriculture Ministers. As well as, of course, our own Federal Minister Sabine Laruelle, Minister Carlo Di Antonio of the Walloon Region and the Minister-President of Flanders Kris Peeters. It is a unique event in our history to have you all here and for that I would like to thank you.
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The European Council of Young Farmers, CEJA, has chosen the World Food Day to mark the official launch of its campaign “Future…Food…Farmers”. This campaign calls for generational renewal in the farming sector to be a priority of the future Common Agricultural Policy, in order to secure Europe’s future, food, and farmers. As CAP negotiations are heating up alongside escalating budget concerns, CEJA believes it is essential that the issue of the age crisis in farming is addressed by decision-makers in this reform. The campaign website launched today is www.futurefoodfarmers.eu.
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Preventing activity of a key enzyme in potatoes could help boost potato quality by putting an end to cold-induced sweetening, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) scientists.
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Tomorrow, 16 October, will mark the World Food Day. It is unacceptable that tonight, across the world, close to 870 million people - more than one and a half times the population of the European Union - will go to bed hungry.
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Agricultural activities account for one third of total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the lion’s share of which comes from industrial agriculture. But farmers are also among the first to feel the impacts of climate change, as harvests fail due to increasingly extreme weather. More sustainable food systems which operate at a smaller scale can reduce emissions from agriculture and are more resistant to erratic climate. This is how we can feed the world in the throes of climate change, according to a new report by the international alliance of Catholic development agencies CIDSE.
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No sooner does the risk of importing exotic diseases such as dickeya in seed potatoes appear to be receding than another potential source of harm to the health of the UK crop has reared its head.
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Sistema Producto Papa is proposing a 30% reduction of the 13,500 hectares of crops in the Pacific area to gain better control of the market, as last year many problems were encountered in selling the production due to how weak the national market was.
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Subsidies to European farmers can end up in the pockets of processors, supermarkets, input suppliers, landowners and bureaucracies and raise the cost of farming rather than improving its competitiveness. That’s the view of Professor David Harvey, who is delivering the 2012 Gibson Public Lecture at Queen’s tomorrow evening (10th October). Professor Harvey is Editor in Chief of The Journal of Agricultural Economics and Professor of Agricultural Economics at Newcastle University.
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The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) of the Australian Government has released a new statement on October 4 regarding the heavily contested proposal (e.g. by AUSVEG) regarding import of potatoes from New Zealand:
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PotatoEurope 2012 hosted more than 10,000 visitors over the 12th and 13th of September in Villers-Saint-Christophe, Aisne department, France, surpassing the goals set by ARVALIS and its partners.
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Since the a country's plant health is not negotiable, potato farmers will avoid at all costs importing potatoes from the US. The Ministries of Economy in both countries engaged in an agreement to carry this out, without consulting health authorities or the farmers themselves.
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Today in Brussels, European Union Commissioner for Development Andris Piebalgs and the President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Kanayo F. Nwanze, signed a Memorandum of Understanding to further strengthen the cooperation between the EU and IFAD on agriculture.
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The so-called "Milk Package", designed with a view to the longer term future of the dairy sector following the end of the EU dairy quota system in 2015, is fully applicable from today.
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After receiving a complaint, the European Commission has decided to open a formal investigation into a French levy in the dairy sector (‘taxe FranceAgriMer’). The Commission has doubts that the rules on the collection of the levy and use of the revenue are compatible with EU law and, in particular, with the rules on State aid.
The opening of a formal investigation allows the Commission to examine the measure more closely and gives interested parties the possibility to submit comments. It does not prejudge the outcome of the procedure.
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Dow AgroSciences introduced a new brand and visual identity today, the culmination of a major brand transformation the company has undertaken over the past year. As the agricultural sciences business of The Dow Chemical Company (NYSE: DOW), Dow AgroSciences will further leverage the recognition, capabilities, strength and scale of Dow to deliver new solutions and technologies to growers around the world.
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Florikan, a specialist in polymer-coated fertilizer technologies for the agriculture and horticulture industries, has sold its patented Florikote technology to the J. R. Simplot Company, a leading global supplier of crop nutrient and specialty fertilizer products.
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The Commission has today adopted a proposal designed to apply new rules with regard to the publication of information on the beneficiaries of European agricultural funds. This legislative review has been prompted by a 2010 judgment of the Court of Justice of the European Union (ECJ) which invalidated part of Commission Regulation (EC) 259/2008, particularly as regards the publication of information on individual beneficiaries of the agricultural funds.
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The UK seed potato industry is on a high as Potato Council has announced another record year for seed exports, with this year’s figures surpassing 103,000 tonnes.
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The world’s leading exhibition:
Unique exhibition programme for professional animal husbandry All leading companies represented - Six additional exhibition halls integrated - BioEnergy Decentral - bpt Congress - New concept for grouping of key areas and visitor guidance - International technical programme
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of September 2012 will take place in Brussels on 24 & 25 September 2012, under the presidency of Mr Sofoklis Aletraris, Cypriot Minister of Agriculture, Natural Resources & Environment. Monday's session will deal with agriculture issues (under the aegis Agriculture & Rural Development Commissioner Dacian Cioloş), and Tuesday's session will deal with the fisheries points (Maritime Affairs & Fisheries Commissioner Maria Damanaki) and a number of SANCO "Any Other Business points" (Health Commissioner John Dalli).
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For the first time in 31 months, milk production is down on a year-over-year basis.
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Copa-Cogeca welcomed today discussions on a potential Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the EU and Japan at a major Workshop in European Parliament, stressing an ambitious agreement would strongly benefit the EU economy.
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Mike Madsen has been elected as the newest commissioner for the Washington State Potato Commission (WSPC). The election took place during the WSPC’s quarterly meeting on September 6, 2012. Mike will fill the WSPC’s vacant at-large position and begin serving his term immediately.
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The Danish Agriculture and Food Council had on September 10 invited a large number of directors and senior officials from the Danish ministries to visit some of the leading companies within the agricultural and food industries.
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A Senate Inquiry into the importation of fresh potatoes from New Zealand has been praised by the Australian horticulture industry.
Last week, Senators Colbeck, Xenophon, Nash, Madigan and McKenzie moved that the Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport Committee examine the validity of the scientific evidence which underpins the Import Risk Analysis for potatoes from New Zealand.
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McDonald's USA President Jan Fields announced today that, starting next week, the company will list calorie information on restaurant and drive-thru menus nationwide to further inform and help customers and employees make nutrition-minded choices.
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Algeria is considering to import potatoes in face of a possible shortage in the market, Agriculture Minister Rachid Benaissa said Sunday.
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In the wake of rising food demand, Copa-Cogeca outlined the best ways to maintain the EU’s potential for agricultural production whilst preserving limited resources– especially land and water – at EU Farm Ministers Informal Meeting in Nicosia, Cyprus today.
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Addressing all 27 EU Ministers for Agriculture, young farmer representative Joris Baecke urged the Council to adopt and strengthen proposed measures for young farmers in the future CAP. The continuation of the downward trend in the access of young people to the farming sector is too dramatic to leave this issue unanswered.
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Every four years France welcomes PotatoEurope. The event is a showcase for technical innovations, demonstrations of harvesting and storage methods, as well as an essential trading hub that no professional can afford to miss. Organised around the themes of performance, sustainability and qualitative as well as environmental excellence, PotatoEurope is getting ready to welcome 10,000 visitors from around the world.
PotatoEurope 2012 will take place on September 12th and 13th 2012 at Villers-Saint-Christophe (Aisne department, France)
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Today’s decision of the European Court of Justice clarifies the legal requirements for the cultivation of GM crops in the European Union Member States. The decision confirms the non-legitimacy of national authorizations introduced in addition to the approval of biotech crops established by the European legal framework, and it also confirms that coexistence measures are not mandatory to grow GM plants.
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As the annual potato harvest begins, Wisconsin farmers continue to check their fields for late blight, the ferocious plant disease that caused the 1848 Irish potato famine and fueled massive emigration from Ireland.
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The European Commission presented its forecasts on cereals to EU Member States in the Management Committee of 30 August.
The main conclusions arising from the presentations were as follows: At European level, despite the drought in certain Member States, current forecasts for agricultural products are at 279 million tonnes of cereals.
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The J.R. Simplot Company has acquired Crop Service Center, Inc., an agricultural retail business based in Atwood, Kansas.
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PepsiCo and Cambridge University have joined forces to introduce mobile technology to crop planning, with a new smartphone app that will help farmers predict future harvests.
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Two innovative Dutch agri-food companies, Solynta and FOODSniffer, have been selected to present at the Ag Innovation Showcase in St. Louis Sept. 10-13.
The first company, Solynta, has developed a revolutionary breakthrough in potato breeding technology, unlocking potato’s genetic potential previously deemed inconceivable as well as significantly increasing both efficiency and effectiveness of potato breeding by more than 300%.
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The public debate between AUSVEG and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) in Australia continues, with AUSVEG querying DAFF’s decision to go ahead with plans in light of South Korea’s decision to suspend imports of US potatoes due to concerns over zebra chip disease.
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In the framework of the Eastern partnership the European Commission has provided new funding to modernise Georgia's agriculture, as well as build up the institutions responsible for preparing its political association and economic integration with the EU.
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The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets today alerted consumers that Optima Distributors LTD, located at 66-15 Traffic Ave. in Ridgewood, NY, is recalling Del Campo brand Dried Potato due to the presence of undeclared sulfites.
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Current recommendations: Late blight was confirmed in a potato field in the Carberry area of Manitoba on Friday August 17 according to Dr. Vikram Bisht, Plant Pathologist, Potato & Horticultural Crops, Manitoba Agriculture, Foods & Rural Initiatives.
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An Alberta politician, the Liberal MLA David Swann, called on snack-food giant Frito Lay, a subsidiary of PepsiCo., to boycott Alberta potatoes because child labour remains unregulated on provincial farms.
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Wet weather is once again favouring blackleg development in Scottish seed potato crops, although disease levels are believed currently to be below the record levels seen in 2011.
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On Tuesday 25th September Cesena Fair will host the International Symposium on Strawberries that will focus on the research on, and marketing of, this species, more and more important for European and Mediterranean agriculture
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AUSVEG has “wrongly accused” the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) of basing quarantine conditions on outdated information, and of avoiding accountability, says DAFF.
AUSVEG released a statement on Friday August 17 claiming a “devastating pest risk to $400 million Australian tomato industry”, with the import conditions for fresh potatoes from New Zealand currently under review by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) Biosecurity.
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The European Commission has launched a call for tenders for an analysis on future developments in the milk sector, focussing on the market situation from 2015 onwards when the current production quota system ends.
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It was the hottest July on record for many parts of the United States, but that didn’t stop milk production from increasing 0.7 percent from the same month a year earlier.
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The federal government is providing $109,000 for the University of Idaho to study an emerging plant disease the school says “poses a substantial threat to the state’s potato industry.”
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The name " 盐城龙虾 (Yancheng Long Xia) " has been formally registered as a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) for a natural wild shellfish living in the convergence of fresh and salt water areas. It has been added to the more than 1000 names of agricultural products and foodstuffs (among them 10 non-EU products) protected as PGI or PDO (Protected Designation of Origin).
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The South Korean government will shut off all shipments of fresh potatoes from Oregon, Washington and Idaho beginning Aug. 17 because of concerns over the presence of zebra chip in Pacific Northwest potatoes.
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Hardly a day passes that there aren't new pictures and signs of the Great Drought of 2012.
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(CBS News) Hardly a day passes that there aren't new pictures and signs of the Great Drought of 2012. The government put out a report Friday that brings home just how severe it is. It is not just farmers and stockmen who are affected: It's going to mean higher food prices for everyone.
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Canadian Potato producers received a boost from the federal Government, as Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz and Member of Parliament Mike Allen (Tobique–Mactaquac) attended the Centennial celebrations at the Potato Research Centre in Fredericton, New Brunswick and announced an investment for two innovative potato research projects.
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Cargill today reported $1.17 billion in earnings from continuing operations in the 2012 fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, a 56 percent decrease from a record $2.69 billion in the prior year. Fourth-quarter earnings were $73 million, down 82 percent from $404 million in the same period a year ago.
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The broken record keeps on playing the same tune. Another week's passed and the corn and soybean crops have taken another step south in overall crop conditions. Now, only 23% of the country's corn crop and 29% of the soybean crop are rated in either good or excellent condition, according to Monday's USDA-NASS Crop Progress report.
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Last April, when a dairy cow in California was discovered to have bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), federal officials were quick to point out that it never posed a threat to the food supply.
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The European Commission adopted an action plan to improve the catch registration system in Spain. It has been designed jointly by the Commission and the Spanish authorities, following two years of system auditing. The agreed measures will help reinforce the fisheries controls by Spain.
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Potato growers could achieve potential savings of more than €450/ha if they used a blight-resistant genetically modified (GM) potato variety instead of a conventional variety.
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Potato importers and growers looking to import high quality seed potatoes are warmly invited to visit the Potato Council pavilion at Potato Europe (Villers-Saint-Christophe, France, September 12-13).
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The problem of glut of potatoes causing heavy losses to farmers can now be reduced drastically as the Central Institute of Post Harvest Engineering and Technology (CIPHET) has standardized a technology for using potatoes of all kinds including waste from food processing industry, unmarketable small or very large size potatoes for making cattle feed of high nutritional value.
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The international exhibition of the fruit and vegetable sector to be held in Cesena, welcomes delegations from the Foreign Economic Cooperation Center which has been working side by side with the fair since 2005
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BioFach, the World Organic Trade Fair, gathers representatives from the entire organic sector in Nürnberg once a year. The next time will be from 13–16 February 2013, when international organic players help to shape the market, organic movement and policy for a future world.
At BioFach and Vivaness 2012, 2,420 exhibitors – 204 of them at the Trade Fair for Natural Personal Care and Wellness – presented their products to the 40,315 trade buyers from 130 nations. The focus at the next edition is on the organic sector as a global family. This will deal with the importance of shared values, fair action, fair and transparent value chains and variety through regionality and globalization.
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The European Commission has launched a call for tenders for a study on exchange programmes for young farmers to evaluate to what extent these can address their specific needs. The call for tenders for this pilot project, launched on 27 July and managed by the Commission on the request of the European Parliament, will aim at identifying and assessing the specific needs of young farmers across the EU.
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La Commission européenne a ajouté cinq dénominations de produits agricoles et alimentaires à la liste des appellations d'origine protégées (AOP) et des indications géographiques protégées (IGP).
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The European Commission has launched a call for tenders for an evaluation of the School Milk Scheme (SMS) – the scheme which co-funds milk distribution to up to 17 million schoolchildren every year in 26 Member States.
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The declining state of this year’s corn crop has prompted new calls for elimination, or at least a modification, of the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS), which currently mandates 15.2 billion gallons of renewable fuels going into the nation’s fuel supply this year, most of that from corn. On Thursday, Congressman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.), who serves as vice chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, introduced a bill that would allow flexibility in the RFS based on corn supplies.
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New record booking level at the world’s leading exhibition for animal production and management - Top level information platform - Showcase for innovations - Specials - International technical programme
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Cargill has supplied the first-ever sustainable verified rapeseed oil to Unilever with an initial consignment covering five percent of Unilever’s rapeseed oil needs. In the next three years Cargill’s European refined oils and grain & oilseed businesses will be able to meet all of Unilever’s sustainable rapeseed oil needs, which is used in products including margarines and mayonnaises.
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Eric Driver, delegate from CEJA’s Irish member organisation Macra na Feirme, had the opportunity to make a presentation on young farmers and food security in today’s European Commission conference entitled “The CAP Towards 2020 – Taking Stock with Civil Society” in Brussels, Belgium.
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Dacian Cioloş European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development
Conference on the future of the PAC/Brussels 13 July 2012
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting of July 2012 will take place in Brussels on 16 July 2012, under the Presidency of Cypriot Minister for Agriculture, Natural Resources & Environment Mr. Sofoclis Aletraris.
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In a meeting with EU Agriculture Commissioner Ciolos today, Copa-Cogeca welcomed as a good starting point the EU Commissions’ Action Plan to improve the viability and competitiveness of the EU Olive Oil Sector. We now need to work on concrete measures to implement in the sector.
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In a meeting with EU Agriculture Commissioner Ciolos today, Copa-Cogeca welcomed as a good starting point the EU Commissions’ Action Plan to improve the viability and competitiveness of the EU Olive Oil Sector. We now need to work on concrete measures to implement in the sector.
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Earlier today, at the last ‘olive and derived products’ Advisory Group meeting before the summer, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Ciolos, presented his action plan on the subject to the participating experts and observers.
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Tomorrow (13 July 2012) the European Commission is holding a conference on the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) towards 2020, as a forum for civil society to discuss the CAP reform proposals for post-2013 adopted by the Commission in October 2011.
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The European Union and Japan are going to cooperate to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing - so called IUU fishing. A Joint Statement to this end has been signed today in Tokyo by Maria Damanaki, European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries and Akira Gunji, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan. The EU and Japan rank first and second, respectively, as the world’s top seafood importers.
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Potatoes New Zealand has welcomed an Australian Government draft report which is expected to open the door to the export of fresh potatoes for processing from New Zealand to Australia.
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More than 90% of EU citizens find quality and price an important factor when buying food, and more important than origin (71%) and brand (47%) – indeed they were deemed "very important" by 65% (quality) and 54% (price), according to a new EUROBAROMETER survey on food security, food quality and the countryside, which is published today.
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Home gardeners and commercial growers are alerted of the potential introduction of late blight this growing season, as it has been confirmed in Suffolk County.
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Growers and traders of potatoes are likely to suffer losses worth nearly Rs7 billion as the exports of the vegetable have been halted due to the negligence of the government, Agriculture Forum Chairman Muhammad Ibrahim Mughal told The News.
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Overall satisfaction among exhibitors and visitors despite adverse weather conditions – 22,467 visitors at the site of the DLG International Crop Produc-tion Center in Bernburg-Strenzfeld – More than 2,000 international visitors
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The meeting for the European potato sector in 2012, part of the PotatoEurope* process
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The two-year transition period for the organic food sector to comply with new EU labelling rules is reaching its end. As from 1 July 2012, the EU organic logo will be obligatory on all pre-packaged organic food products produced in EU Member States which meet the necessary standards.
The logo will stay optional for non-packed and imported organic products.
Other private, regional or national logos will continue to be allowed to appear alongside the EU label.
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Health and Consumers' Commissioner John Dalli is to discuss a variety of issues covering all three pillars of his portfolio (health, consumer policy, food safety) during an official visit to the United States from 27 to 29 June.
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This European Court of Auditors’ (ECA) performance audit focuses on the effectiveness of the system for supervising organic production and how the various institutions involved (the EU Commission and the competent Member State authorities, accreditation bodies and control bodies) have fulfilled their responsibilities with regard to both the control system within the EU and the management of the import schemes currently in operation.
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The momagri SGPA indicator has come to expose a little known fact: Agricultural subsidies in the U.S. are quite higher than the figures usually given, and very largely exceed those granted by the European Union (EU) and its member-states.
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The West Bengal government (India) would revamp the ailing potato seeds institute at Kalimpong to keep its supply line intact for the benefit of farmers in the state without depending on Punjab or Haryana.
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Andris Piebalgs, Commissioner for Development
European Commission's side event on Agriculture /Rio de Janeiro
21 June 2012
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Dacian Ciolos, European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development
DG AGRI/DG DEVCO side event: Agriculture the way towards sustainability and inclusiveness G20/Rio de Janeiro
21 June 2012
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The European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Cioloş and the Brazilian Minister for Agriculture, Livestock and Food Supply, Mendes Ribeiro Filho have signed today in Rio de Janeiro a Memorandum of understanding to establish a dialogue on agriculture.
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A total of €436 million of EU agricultural policy funds unduly spent by Member States is being claimed back by the European Commission today under the so-called clearance of accounts procedure. As some of these amounts have already been recovered from the Member States, the financial impact is somewhat lower at €426 million. This money returns to the EU budget because of non-compliance with EU rules or inadequate control procedures on agricultural expenditure.
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Meeting in Bratislava for the annual conference of their European organization, CEETTAR, agricultural, rural and forestry contractors of the EU, noted the cruel lack of ambition of MEPs, even though they have for the first time their say with regard to agricultural policy.
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In a bid to promote and stimulate innovation, Cogeca held a major Ceremony at European Parliament today presenting the 2012 European Award for Cooperative Innovation, with MEPs Britta Reimers, Christel Schaldemose and Michel Dantin.
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According to the second estimates for the Economic Accounts for Agriculture (EAA) submitted to Eurostat by the Member States at the end of January 2012, agricultural income per annual work unit (Indicator A1) is estimated to have risen by 7.1 % in the EU-27 in 2011. Agricultural labour input was down by 2.7 % in EU-27 compared with the previous year.
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Twenty years after the original earth summit, the UN decided the theme this time around would be two-fold:
1) the green economy in the context of sustainable development and poverty eradication
2) the global governance for sustainable development
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Last week, National Potato Council (NPC) Executive Vice President and CEO John Keeling met with Mexico's Ambassador to the United States Arturo Sarukhan to discuss access to the Mexican potato market for fresh U.S. potatoes.
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The term in Chinese which means 'Zhenjiang Xiang Cu' has been formally registered as a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) for a Chinese vinegar.
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council will meet in Luxembourg on Monday, 18 June 2012, under the presidency of Danish Minister of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries Ms Mette Gjerskov. After Tuesday's meeting [June 12] on fisheries issues, this meeting will discuss agriculture, health and animal welfare issues, and the Commission will be represented by Agriculture & Rural Development Commissioner Dacian Cioloş and Health & Consumer Policy Commissioner John Dalli.
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Irish agribusiness are being offered financial and political support to set up in Africa.
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The European Commission has opened an in-depth investigation to examine whether the marketing measures put into effect by Agrarmarkt Austria (AMA) between 1995 and 2008 are in line with EU state aid rules. The opening of an in-depth investigation gives interested parties the possibility to comment on the measure concerned. It does not however prejudge the outcome of the investigation.
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Lely has acquired the activities of one of the most respected wind turbine companies, Aircon GmbH. The activities will be continued under the name of Lely Aircon B.V.
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In the last round of negotiations at the 3rd Preparatory Committee Meeting of the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development, Copa-Cogeca (European farmers and European agri-cooperatives) and EACB (the European Association of Cooperative Banks), highlight crucial elements for the Rio+20 Conference.
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The European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Cioloş, and the Chinese Minister for Administration of Quality, Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ), Zhi Shuping, agreed today in Beijing to open negotiations on a mutual recognition agreement in the field of organic food products.
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The Pacific Plan for Strengthening Regional Cooperation and Integration, adopted by Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) leaders in 2005, sets out the region’s goals on cooperation and integration from 2006 to 2015 in four areas: economic growth, sustainable development, governance and security.
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The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Luxembourg on 12 June, to address fisheries matters only. It will be chaired by Mrs Mette Gjerskov, Danish Minister of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries. Commissioner Maria Damanaki will represent the Commission at the meeting. The Council is expected to reach political agreement on the two main proposals within the framework of the Common Fisheries Policy reform:
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The European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Cioloş, and China Minister for Agriculture, Han Changfu, signed today in Beijing a Cooperation Plan on Agriculture and Rural Development.
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European Commissioner for Agriculture & Rural Development Dacian Ciolos will be in China from 8-13 June 2012 to deepen EU-China cooperation in the fields of agriculture and rural development.
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The final Environment Council under the Danish Presidency will be held on 11 June in Luxembourg. Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik and Commissioner for Climate Action Connie Hedegaard will represent the European Commission. Ministers are expected to adopt conclusions on the framework for the 7th EU Environment Action Programme. Conclusions will also be adopted on preparations for international negotiations on the Biodiversity Convention and the Biosafety Protocol.
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Arcadia Biosciences, Inc., an agricultural technology company focused on developing technologies and products that benefit the environment and human health, and SESVanderHave, a leading sugar beet breeding and marketing company, today announced the achievement of key field performance milestones for Nitrogen Use Efficient (NUE) sugar beets.
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At EU Farm Ministers Informal Meeting today, which focused on enabling the EU agri-food sector to contribute to a green transition of our modern economy, Copa-Cogeca outlined measures to ensure green growth in the future under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
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The European Commission has today launched a public consultation on the future of the EU regime for fruit and vegetables. The responses will feed into a Commission report on the regime next May which will look at the 2007 reform, with proposals for further changes if necessary, which would apply from 2014.
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Senior agriculture officials from European Neighbourhood countries meet today and tomorrow in Brussels to discuss the strategic modernisation of the agricultural sector in their countries at a Conference on the European Neighbourhood Programme for Agriculture & Rural Development (ENPARD).
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In the last round of “informal informal” negotiations this week before the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development on 20th -22nd June (the so-called Rio+20 Summit), Copa-Cogeca highlighted aspects of its Declaration for the Conference “Green growth at the heart of sustainable development”
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Today, European Commission President Barroso and European Council President Van Rompuy sent a joint letter to EU Heads of State and Government to inform them about the key issues coming up for discussion at the G20 Summit in Los Cabos, Mexico, on 18-19 June 2012.
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Japanese trading house Marubeni Corp is to buy U.S. grains merchant Gavilon for $3.6 billion, the company said on Tuesday, as it targets China's growing demand for corn from North America, the world's top grain export hub.
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Member States voted at the Management Committee of 16 May 2012 on a European Commission proposal to open private storage aid for olive oil (up to 180 days) for 100 000 tonnes of virgin and extra virgin olive oil.
This move follows relatively low prices seen on the EU market over the past weeks.
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Joint statement by European Commission President Barroso and European Council President Van Rompuy after the G8 working session on the global economy
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The European Commission welcomes the "New Alliance to improve Food and nutrition security" launched today, on the eve of the G8 Summit. The EU has been an active partner in the preparation of the "New Alliance" which aims at boosting productivity, domestic and international private sector investments and supporting innovation and technology in Africa.
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The Zhengzhou Commodity Exchange (ZCE), one of China's two agricultural commodities exchanges, is considering introducing potato futures trading among a raft of new agricultural contracts set to launch later this year, Qiao Jianhui, the exchange's media director, told the Global Times, without revealing a specific timetable.
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Since time immemorial, plants have been crucial to our survival and prosperity. From the world’s first “green revolution” – the invention of agriculture – in the Middle East, to today’s high-tech agribusiness, plants have been at the centre of our diets, economy and much more. Plant cells produce biomass from simple chemical building blocks in the air and the soil, including carbon dioxide, nitrogen and water, using the sun as a ‘for-free’ energy source.
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The United States Potato Board (USPB) led a trade mission of US seed potato growers and shippers to Egypt the first week of April.
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The International Potato Center (CIP) announced today that it is a Grand Challenges Explorations winner, an initiative funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
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A Waikerie-based seed potato company has received a State Government grant for a major three stage expansion, which will help provide a secure source of quality seed potatoes for South Australian growers.
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In January 2012, European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Ciolos, set up a high level group on wine in order to assess proposals to end the current planting rights system by 2015. In response to this, the European Council of Young Farmers have published their position on the matter and call for the maintenance of all wine planting rights until a later date with priority access to the system for young farmers.
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Maria Damanaki, European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries together with Nicolaus Berlakovich, Austrian Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, Environment and Water Management are hosting a high-level conference on the future of European Aquaculture.
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The decision support system “Blight Management” (“Skimmelstyring”) could in the future give Danish potato growers more effective control of potato late blight and reduce the use of fungicides.
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The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has established procedures for responding to urgent requests for scientific advice, and carries out crisis preparedness training on a regular basis. During 2011 EFSA carried out one training exercise and issued, upon its own remit and at the request of the European Commission, several consumer advice statements and reports on the E. coli (STEC) O104:H4 epidemic in Germany and France.
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Of all EU-funded policies, the Common Agricultural Policy has the greatest potential to deliver biodiversity on farmland and help meet the EU's 2020 biodiversity targets, according to a new study carried out by the Institute for European Environmental Policy (IEEP).
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European agriculture will have to overcome major challenges in the years and decades to come, including food security, environmental protection, climate change, preservation of the rural environment and farmers' standard of living. It is therefore a fundamental issue for Europe, especially as agricultural land covers 47% of European territory and Europe has almost 12 million farms, of which 70% are small farms of less than five hectares," declared René Souchon (PES, France), president of the Auvergne region and CoR rapporteur for the opinion on the future of the CAP, which was adopted by a large majority.
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U.S. farmers are buying equipment as agricultural finances strengthen, the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City said in its quarterly report on national farm lending.
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The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Luxembourg on 26 and 27 April. The meeting will be chaired by Mrs Mette Gjerskov, Danish Minister of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries. Commissioners Maria Damanaki, Dacian Cioloş, and John Dalli will represent the Commission at the meeting. Agriculture issues will be dealt with on Thursday and Fisheries issues on Friday.
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The European Commission found that public support in favour of "Zweckverband Tierkörperbeseitigung in Rhineland-Palatinate" (ZT) - a local provider of services for the disposal of dead animal carcasses and slaughterhouse waste - was incompatible with EU state aid rules and has ordered Germany to recover incompatible aid of approximately €30 million from the beneficiary.
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The system, created by the Brazilian Agriculture and Livestock Confederation, will centralise electronic data on raising and transporting cattle for the country's 27 States.
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The High Level Group on wine is meeting for the first time today, bringing together senior officials from Member States, representatives of the sector and observers of the European Parliament, the Council and Croatia.
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On 20 April, the European Commission will hold a conference on "Local agriculture and short food supply chains" - a joint initiative by Dacian Cioloş, European Commissioner for Agriculture & Rural Development, and John Dalli, European Commissioner for Health & Consumer Policy.
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“Agriculturists -- it’s time for us to stand up," encourages Jasmine Dillon, a graduate student in animal breeding at Texas A&M University in a YouTube video.
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www.efarmz.be is a new website that will allow city dwellers to buy organic produce from Belgian farms that practice environmentally friendly farming and produce food of great quality.
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CEJA and MEP Milan Zver hosted a roundtable event in the European Parliament today entitled “Sowing the Seeds to Harvest in Future: Supporting Young People into Farming” on the subject of generational renewal in European agriculture and young farmers measures in the CAP reform.
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The largest beneficiaries of European Union farm subsidies include an Italian bank in Milan, a French chicken giant and an Irish producer of Weight Watchers meals and Yorkshire pudding, according to previously undisclosed data for 2008.
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La Commission européenne a adopté aujourd'hui une Communication intitulée "La promotion et l'information en faveur des produits agricoles : une stratégie à forte valeur ajoutée pour promouvoir les saveurs de l'Europe".
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At a Working Group meeting in Rome on 22 March 2012, CEJA adopted its positions on the Commission's proposals for Market Management Measures and Rural Development.
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Nearly 100,000 head of cattle are believed to have been struck by foot-and-mouth disease in Egypt, where a major new outbreak is threatening the entire region, veterinary sources warned on Tuesday.
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Proteína Animal, SA de CV, has 25.2 million layers making it the world's second largest egg producer, and the largest in Mexico and Latin America. The company is better known by its acronym PROAN or the egg brand San Juan, named after the location of its headquarters in San Juan de los Lagos, in the Los Altos area of the state of Jalisco in Mexico.
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Last week, CEJA President Joris Baecke spoke in a European Economic and Social Committee Conference on the subject of ‘Young farmers in the world and in the future’. Underlining the importance of young farmers to the future of European agriculture, Mr Baecke highlighted the significance of research and innovation in relation to greening and food security measures, and the need to have farmers to implement them.
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CNH announced a long term strategic partnership with Orkel AS, the Norwegian market leader in high performance fixed chamber round balers, compactors and tractor trailers.
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Close to three quarters of Europeans think that the EU should propose additional measures to address water problems in Europe, according to a Eurobarometer survey published today. A sizeable majority – 68 % – think that water-related problems are serious.
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The European Economic and Social Committee organised a conference on 20 and 21 March to mark the 50th anniversary of EU farming policy. The aim of the conference was not only to celebrate the CAP but also to highlight the future challenges and opportunities facing the EU, regarding this key policy, and to express the expectations of European civil society.
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To make the EU single market work better for workers and for business, the Commission has proposed new rules to increase the protection of workers temporarily posted abroad. Worker protection and fair competition are the two sides of the EU single market's coin, yet findings suggest that minimum employment and working conditions are often not respected for the one million or so posted workers in the EU.
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To simplify the Common Agricultural Policy after 2013, adjustments are needed to the current legislative proposals. In particular, the complexity of the direct payments proposal needs to be tackled.
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The sudden, widespread death of bee populations in Europe and around the world is one of the most perplexing environmental mysteries of this century. In 2007, entire colonies of honey bees began to abruptly disappear – first in the US and then spreading to
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The conference will look at the future challenges and opportunities for the EU farm policy from different angles, and predominantly from a civil society perspective. We will draw on the experience of fifty years of development of the most integrated of all EU policies - the common agricultural policy (CAP) and will look at its impact on EU farmers, consumers, rural regions, global food security and trade.
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The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on 19 and 20 March. It will be chaired by Mrs Mette Gjerskov, Danish Minister of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries. Commissioners Maria Damanaki and Dacian Cioloş will represent the Commission at the meeting.
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EU Commissioner for Health and Consumer Policy, John Dalli, will visit China from 18-21 March for a series of high-level meetings and events on food safety, health and consumer issues.
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In adopting a new proposal on accounting of greenhouse gases emissions, the European Commission has taken a first step towards incorporating removals and emissions from forests and agriculture into the EU's climate policy.
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Dacian Cioloș Member of the European Commission Responsible for Agriculture and Rural Development Getting ready for agricultural research and innovation Conference on research and innovation in agriculture.
Brussels, 7 March 2011
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The allocation of EU aid under the School Fruit Scheme for the 2012/2013 school year has been backed by Member States in the Management Committee yesterday and will be formally adopted by the Commission in the coming weeks.
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More than 300 stakeholders, researchers, academics and officials are meeting in Brussels today for a Conference on "Enhancing innovation and the delivery of research in EU agriculture". This conference will mark an important step in the discussions on the ways to enhance innovation and the translation of research results in the farming sector, as outlined in the Commission's CAP reform legislative proposals on 12 October 2011.
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The European Commission has launched a call for tenders for a study on mandatory origin labelling for pig, poultry and sheep and goat meat.
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The European Innovation Partnership (EIP) on "Agricultural Productivity and Sustainability" for the period from 2014-2020 aims to address probably the two most fundamental challenges faced by European agriculture in the early 21st century – how to increase production and productivity in order to respond to the significant growth in global food demand (caused by population growth, changes in dietary patterns and the slowdown in productivity growth); and how to improve sustainability and resource efficiency (e.g. inputs of water, energy, fertilisers and pesticides) and address environmental issues (such as biodiversity loss). In short, it will address the challenges of "not only how to produce more, but also how to produce better".
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The European Commission has today proposed decisive action to meet three key challenges facing our society, in areas that are crucial to growth and jobs: the supply of raw materials, sustainable agriculture, and active and healthy ageing. All three require a more concerted innovation effort across the public and private sector, in order to improve quality of life and position Europe as a global leader.
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2,420* exhibitors (international share: 70 %) presented their products to 40,313* trade buyers from 130 countries (international share: 41 %) at BioFach and Vivaness 2012. This time the decision-makers were out in force at the world’s leading exhibition.
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Copa-Cogeca highlighted the need to step up international agricultural research and investment at a major Conference on Trade, Development and Agriculture held in Denmark today. This is crucial to ensure food security and sustainable development world-wide, Copa-Cogeca Secretary-General Pekka Pesonen stressed at the event.
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The European Commission has entered two names in the register of protected geographical indications (PGI). The names registered today are: for United Kingdom, the potatoes called "New Season Comber Potatoes/Comber Earlies" and for Italy, a fruit called "Limone di Rocca Imperiale".
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Copa-Cogeca held a major Workshop on Research and Innovation in Brussels today calling for research to be stepped up. With food demand on the increase, resources dwindling and climate change imposing additional pressures, it is crucial to boost agricultural productivity whilst further improving resource efficiency ”, Copa-Cogeca Secretary-General Pekka Pesonen insisted.
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The sudden, widespread death of bee populations in Europe and around the world is one of the most perplexing environmental mysteries of this century. In 2007, entire colonies of honey bees began to abruptly disappear – first in the US and then spreading to
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To the relief of cows and pigs everywhere, a new generation of grown-in-the-lab meat substitutes are on their way to production and could begin arriving in the next year, agricultural experts said at the AAAS Annual Meeting.
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The European Commission welcomes the positive vote of the European Parliament on the Agricultural agreement with Morocco. Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Dacian Cioloș, Commissioner for Enlargement and European Neighbourhood Policy Štefan Füle and High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Commission Vice President Catherine Ashton expressed their satisfaction with the approval of this Agreement during the plenary session in Strasbourg on Thursday.
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Fonterra, the largest dairy exporter in the world, is exhibiting its organic portfolio at the leading organic trade show BioFach in Nürnberg, which opens its doors on Wednesday, February 15th. Last year Fonterra initiated a refreshed strategy for its Organics business.
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This regular audit procedure is a vital instrument for controlling Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) expenditure, permitting the recovery of sums paid out to Member States where these payments are not in conformity with EU rules or where weaknesses in the management and control systems of the Member State exist.
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A total of €115.2 million of EU agricultural policy funds unduly spent by Member States is being claimed back by the European Commission today under the so-called clearance of accounts procedure. As some of these amounts have already been recovered from the Member States, the financial impact is somewhat lower at €54.3 million.
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The European Union and the United States announced today that beginning June 1, 2012, organic products certified in Europe or in the United States may be sold as organic in either region.
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The European Commission has today adopted a strategy to shift the European economy towards greater and more sustainable use of renewable resources. With the world population approaching 9 billion by 2050 and natural resources finite, Europe needs renewable biological resources for secure and healthy food and feed, as well as for materials, energy, and other products.
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Soil degradation is a worrying phenomenon in the EU. Between 1990 and 2006, at least 275 hectares of soil per day were permanently lost through soil sealing – the covering of fertile land by impermeable material – amounting to 1,000 km² per year, or an area the size of Cyprus every ten years.
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"Organic" farming relates to agricultural production systems that seek to provide the consumer with fresh, tasty and authentic food while respecting natural life-cycle systems. Typical organic practices include: strict limits on chemical pesticides and fertilisers, appropriate livestock farming practices (e.g. free range or open air systems, primarily organic feed), a strict ban on the use of Genetically-Modified Organisms, limits on processing aids and food additives.
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New EU rules for “organic wine” have been agreed in the Standing Committee on Organic Farming (SCOF), and will be published in the Official Journal in the coming weeks. With the new regulation, which will apply from the 2012 harvest, organic wine growers will be allowed to use the term “organic wine” on their labels.
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Bayer CropScience is highlighting its food chain partnerships this year at Fruit Logistica 2012 in Berlin, the world’s leading trade fair for the fresh fruit and vegetable business. The company has forged food chain partnerships in more than 30 countries and 40 crops around the world, helping growers produce high-quality food according to the principles of sustainable agriculture. Bayer CropScience is present at Hall 20, stand C-15, during the Fruit Logistica from February 8-10.
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From 7 to 9 February 2012 in Moscow
Russia’s leading trade exhibition for modern animal husbandry and breeding continues to grow - more than 40 side events
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The European Commission has entered two names in the register of protected designations of origin (PDO) and protected geographical indications (PGI).
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FMO has invested EUR 3 million in Kolnag, a Russian company that produces agricultural machinery such as soil preparation machinery, potato-growing and harvesting machines and feeding mixers for the Russian market.
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The members of the Parliamentary Committee for Agriculture and Rural Development today elected their chairs and vice-chairs for the next two and a half years.
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2012 marks the 50th anniversary of the implementation of the EU's Common Agricultuure Policy (CAP), a cornerstone of European integration, that has provided European citizens with 50 years of food security and a living countryside.
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Today, the European Commission has launched the CAP@50 communication campaign to mark the fiftieth anniversary of the Common Agricultural Policy, a cornerstone of European integration, that has provided European citizens with half a century of food security and a living countryside.
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The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on Monday, 23 January (starting at 11 a.m.). It will be chaired by Mr Mette Gjerskov, Danish Minister for Food, Agriculture and Fisheries. Commissioners John Dalli and Dacian Cioloş will represent the Commission at the meeting.
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EU agricultural commodity prices are expected to stay firm over the medium term, according to a new set of forecasts for major EU agricultural commodity markets and agricultural income until 2020 published by the European Commission.
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Cargill today reported $100 million in earnings from continuing operations in the fiscal 2012 second quarter ended Nov. 30, 2011, an 88 percent decrease from $832 million in the same period a year ago. In the first six months, earnings from continuing operations were $336 million, compared with $1.53 billion in last year’s first half. Both the year-ago figures exclude earnings from Cargill’s former majority investment in The Mosaic Company.
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Some 425 million euros ($549 million) in Greek government subsidies to farmers were incompatible with EU law and will have to be returned, a European Commission spokesman said on Thursday.
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The Schmallenberg virus which causes lambs to be born deformed has now been found at 27 Dutch farms, Agriculture Deputy Minister Hans Bleker has told parliament.
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Cargill has adopted high-pressure processing (HPP) at its ground turkey production facilities in an attempt to prevent future contaminations, the company announced.
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Maintaining and restoring agriculture and forest biodiversity is a precondition to attaining our biodiversity objectives. We have already identified specific problems in agriculture, fisheries, forestry and related targets and actions in the Biodiversity Strategy.
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EU27 real agricultural income per worker1 has increased by 6.7% in 2011, after an increase of 12.6% in 2010, according to first estimates2 issued by Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union. This increase results from a rise in real agricultural income (+3.9%), together with a fall in agricultural labour input (-2.7%). These estimates for the EU27 are based on data supplied by the national authorities in the Member States.
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New Holland has announced that it will be fitting CESAR security systems as standard to machines manufactured in its Basildon, UK Essex plant from early 2012. Machines to be equipped and registered with CESAR, which acts as a powerful deterrent against theft and an invaluable aid in recovery, include the award-winning T6 and T7 series tractors destined for the UK.
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The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on 15 and 16 December. It will be chaired by Mr Marek Sawicki, Polish Minister for Agriculture & Rural Development. Commissioners Maria Damanaki, John Dalli and Dacian Cioloş will represent the Commission at the meeting.
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Ukraine and the European Commission have agreed on joint measures to prevent the spread of African Swine Fever in the territory of Ukraine and the European Union, according to a report of the State Veterinary and Phytosanitary Service of Ukraine.
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The European Union welcomes the agreement reached at the UN climate conference in Durban as a historic breakthrough in the fight against climate change. After two weeks of negotiations, the 195 Parties to the UN climate change convention agreed on a roadmap, proposed by the EU, for drawing up a legal framework by 2015 for climate action by all countries.
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The European network of Agricultural Journalists (ENAJ), a new organisation representing agricultural journalists from the EU was officially launched today in Brussels. The Commissioner for Agriculture Dacian Ciolos was presented with the working charter for the ENAJ at a function attended by 140 journalists from the EU 27.
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The European Union welcomes the agreement reached at the UN climate conference in Durban as a historic breakthrough in the fight against climate change. After two weeks of negotiations, the 195 Parties to the UN climate change convention agreed on a roadmap, proposed by the EU, for drawing up a legal framework by 2015 for climate action by all countries.
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This is the Economic Dossier of Fedagrim, the Belgian Federation for Agricultural, Horticultural, Livestock Breeding and Gardening equipment. In this Dossier, we present an
economic Balance Sheet of the past year. We place the figures relating to Fedagrim members in a broader context, pointing out certain opportunities, while at the same time focusing attention on some threats. The Dossier offers a guide and barometer for the mechanisation sector in particular, and the agricultural, livestock, gardening and green zones sectors in general.
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"One year ago, the European Commission presented a legislative package to strengthen the European milk sector. This morning's informal agreement reached in first reading under the co-decision procedure by the European Parliament and the Council is a very significant step forward for the European milk sector. Once it is formally endorsed by the three institutions and enters into force, it will prepare the milk sector for the new economic context and reinforce the position of the dairy producers in the supply chain. Producers' organisations will have all the necessary tools to better promote their work in the food chain. This new regulation will open the way towards a modern management of agricultural markets, less bureaucratic, better organised between the public authorities and private actors with tools tailored to the new economic challenges. These tools will replace instruments that have lost their effectiveness and did not prevent the 2009 dairy crisis".
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A summary of responses to the June 2011 Green paper on the promotion of EU agriculture products has been published by the European Commission. By the end of the consultation on 7 October 2011, 173 contributions were received from stakeholders, public authorities and citizens.
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The Commission has launched a call for applications for experts on the international aspects of agriculture to participate in a Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Advisory Group dedicated to the subject.
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The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) have published jointly guidance for a harmonised Total Diet Study (TDS) approach. The organisations conclude that, together with other dietary surveillance programmes, TDS is an effective tool to estimate population dietary exposure to both harmful and beneficial chemicals across the overall diet.
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Business-to-business contractual practices, competitiveness in the agro-food industry and the monitoring of food prices will be the main interest of the 2012 work of the High Level Forum for a Better Functioning Food Supply Chain. One year after its launch meeting the Forum adopted today its mid-term report.
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Over 120 organisations from industry, research institutes and universities representing 17 European countries are taking part in the first European Robotics Week.
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The United Nations climate change conference starting on 28 November in Durban, South Africa, must agree on a roadmap and deadline for finalising an ambitious, comprehensive and legally binding global framework for climate action by all major economies. Agreement on this roadmap is one of the reassurances the European Union requires for entering into a second commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol. Durban also needs to make operational the decisions taken last year in Cancún, Mexico, and tackle major issues not resolved there. It should result in a balanced package of decisions acceptable to all Parties.
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Speaking today at a conference organized at the European Parliament at the initiative of the Polish Presidency on the future CAP, CEJA President Joris Baecke called on decision-makers to endorse a strong CAP investing in the farmers of the future.
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European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Maria Damanaki will be in Stockholm on November 23, 2011 to present the reform of the EU's Common Fisheries Policy and discuss specific aspects of the Commission's proposal with Swedish stakeholders.
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Europe's natural heritage is showing an alarming decline, according to new research published today. The European Red List, a part of the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™, assessed a considerable portion of Europe’s native fauna and flora, finding that a large proportion of molluscs, freshwater fish and vascular plants now fall into the threatened category.
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The European Commission proposed today to forbid, with no exemptions, the practice of 'shark finning' aboard fishing vessels. Shark finning is the practice of cutting off the fins of sharks – often while they are still alive - and then throwing back into the sea the shark without its fins.
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Allow me to bid you a very warm welcome to the “World’s No. One”, to Agritechnica 2011 in Hanover, the world’s largest exhibition for agricultural machinery and equipment that is traditionally opened with a ceremony at the Max Eyth Evening, as here and now today.
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Today, the European Commission has approved 14 programmes in 11 Member States to promote fresh fruit and vegetables both on the internal market and in third countries.
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EU Farm Commisisoner Dacian Ciolos awarded Copas’ Innovation Prize for Women Farmers to Irish dairy farmer Anne Moore at a major Presentation Ceremony organised by Copa in Brussels today.
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Some 2,500 exhibitors – 200 of them at Vivaness, the Trade Fair for Natural Personal Care and Wellness – and 44,000 trade visitors are expected again at BioFach, the World Organic Trade Fair, in Nürnberg from 15–18 February 2012. Besides the customary variety and quality of the product spectrum and numerous highlights, the event focuses mainly on the organic abundance of one raw material market: India presents its products to the international sector as Country of the Year at BioFach 2012. This project is being implemented in cooperation with the long-term partner APEDA, the Indian export promotion organization in New Delhi. We interviewed Sanjay Dave, Director of the Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).
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Kärcher has launched three new cold water high-pressure cleaners for single-lance operation. As they can be equipped as required with accessories from the extensive range, the ini-tial outlay is limited to what is actually needed. Models HD 7/16 ST, HD 9/18 ST and HD 13/12 ST are available in more than 100 versions and are used in agriculture, the crafts and trades, industry and municipalities.
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The world's leading forum for the future of the agricultural industry, Agritechnica 2011, has started with record participation by exhibitors. Up to and including Saturday, 19 November 2011, the Exhibition Grounds in Hanover will be the meeting place for the global agricultural sector. Altogether 2,748 companies from 48 countries, comprising 2,698 direct exhibitors and 50 additionally represented companies, are presenting a complete programme of agricultural machinery and equipment.
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Technical progress in agricultural machinery has reached a very high level today and is thus comparable with other sectors of industrial production in Europe. In recent years it was chiefly high labour costs that led to larger, wider and faster machines being built to allow more cost-efficient production. This trend is admittedly still evident, but it is being flanked by developments aiming to increase efficiency per machine unit.
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New Holland Agriculture reaffirms its role as Clean Energy Leader by announcing the release of the new hydrogen-powered NH2™ tractor, which will have its world preview at the Agritechnica show in Hanover (13 – 19 November 2011).
“The new NH2™ has evolved from the concept that won the Gold Innovation Medal at SIMA 2009. It was developed in collaboration with CRF”, said Riccardo Morselli, Innovation Product Development, “a process that has involved equipping the new machine with all of the features required to ensure it will deliver the kind of performance associated with a conventional diesel tractor, both in the field and on the road”.
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The world's leading forum for the future of the agricultural industry, Agritechnica 2011, has started with record participation by exhibitors. Up to and including Saturday, 19 November 2011, the Exhibition Grounds in Hanover will be the meeting place for the global agricultural sector. Altogether 2,748 companies from 48 countries, comprising 2,698 direct exhibitors and 50 additionally represented companies, are presenting a complete programme of agricultural machinery and equipment. The number of exhibitors has grown by 17 percent compared with the last event in 2009.
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Planning ahead is important for everyone, including the IFAJ. The IFAJ leadership team will review a strategic plan for the future during our business meeting in January.
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All agricultural manufacturers are currently developing engine solutions that meet the rigorous Tier 4A emission regulations, and New Holland Agriculture are offering you cutting edge industry leading engines that are environmentally friendly throughout their entire life.
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Since 1895, New Holland is committed to providing solutions that improve farming efficiency and productivity by using accessible technology. In 2006 the Clean Energy
Leader strategy was launched for the active promotion of renewable fuels, emissions reduction systems and sustainable agricultural technology.
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The trend towards process automation and optimisation in agriculture seems to know no bounds. And nor does CLAAS Agrosystems. At Agritechnica 2011 the software, systems and machine programming specialists will be pre-senting the latest results from their research and develop-ment department. The new innovative products that they have registered for awards will, of course, also be on view at stand A10 in Hall 16: TONI - the telemetry system for im-proved remote diagnosis, PF-Gülle - the innovative soft-ware for site-specific fertilisation and FLOTTENMANAGE-MENT FIELDNAV with its reliable combination of navigation and process management. The European GNSS Agency (GSA) and Allianz Re are co-exhibitors at the CLAAS Agrosystems stand.
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Bayer CropScience subsidiary HILD samen GmbH has opened enlarged seed technology facilities at its site in Marbach am Neckar, Germany. The company plans to process and store various types of vegetable and herb seeds on an area of 4,000 m2 centrally at the site in the future.
HILD has invested some € 4 million in the facilities.
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Workshop LIVE in Hall 7 - Attracting talent in agri-mechanics
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For the fourth year in a row, the EU's annual accounts have received a clean bill of health from its external auditors. As for EU spending, the overall error rate is once again below 4%. This means that the vast majority (at least 96%) of total payments made in 2010 were free from quantifiable error.
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The crop protection industry takes another step toward establishing itself as a valued partner in the pursuit of a more sustainable farming system in Europe.
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Which Member States are the main producers of cereals? Which Member State produces the most drinking milk and the most cheese and where is the most beef, pork and poultry meat produced?
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At a major Conference organised by 10 agri-food chain associations, participants called for concrete solutions and proper investment schemes to support minor uses and specialty crops and to improve the availability of tailor made solutions for their protection.
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Consumers’ interest in agriculture and personal respect for farmers is high, even in countries where less than two percent of the population works in agriculture, according to the BASF Farm Perspectives Study, which surveyed 1,800 farmers and 6,000 consumers. Yet farmers and consumers also agree that farmers’ reputations remain low. The study, which outlines the way farmers and consumers view the farming profession, its challenges and its support network, revealed surprisingly strong agreement on major issues, including the role of farmers and the major challenges farmers are facing in the 21st century.
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EU policies are continuing to seriously undermine rights in developing countries says a new report by CONCORD, the confederation of European development NGOs. The report shows incoherencies between EU development objectives and other policies, coming at an important time as the EU reforms its agricultural, trade and development policies.
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The 69th International Conference LAND.TECHNIK – AgEng 2011 which will take place in Hannover on November 11 and 12, 2011, once again invites participants to share their ideas about the latest results from the areas of product development and research in agricultural engineering.
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In recent decades, the farming industry has evolved into a dynamic global sector with efficiency and technology at its core. And these changes are reflected in the attitudes and backgrounds of the new generation of agribusiness professionals: today’s young farmers and students are hungry for international know-how and strategic management skills, and are often highly qualified thanks to the wider choice in agricultural degrees and vocational training.
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Tuesday, 15th of November 2011, 6.30 - 8.00 pm. Hanover Exhibition Grounds, Convention Center, room 1B
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Will be held at the world’s largest international exhibition of agricultural machinery and equipment, AGRITECHNICA, on 16 November 2011 in Hanover.
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Modernizing to become a global player in the world’s agricultural markets - What can Russia and Ukraine contribute to securing world food supplies?
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Tomorrow, European Commissioner for Development Andris Piebalgs will arrive in Uganda for a two-day visit. Together with government and private sector representatives he will explore how to improve access to financing for small and medium enterprises in agriculture and the agribusiness through public-private partnerships.
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Following the announcement of Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Dacian Cioloş at the G-20 agricultural ministers meeting in June 2011, the Commission has launched a new webpage on Europa to provide regular information on the EU markets for cereals, oilseeds and rice -
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A study published today shows that the economic benefits arising from the Doha Development Agenda (DDA) negotiations in the World Trade Organisation amount to an increase of world exports of $359 billion on an annual basis from a deal on the liberalisation of industrial goods, agriculture, services and on the removal of red tape. If an agreement on sectoral liberalisation of industrial goods (chemicals, machinery, electronics) could be reached, world exports would increase by a further $146 billion, totalling $505 billion annually, according to the study.
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The concept of smart farming encompasses many different technologies that can be used individually, or together, to increase the efficiency of agricultural operations. We speak to a farmer who has fully embraced the systems that are currently available and to two academics involved in developing the smart farming systems of the future.
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Modern farming methods are increasingly characterized by high-tech innovations, with navigation, sensor technology, data management paving the way for ever higher levels of farming efficiency.
There is no doubt that smart farming represents the future of the agricultural industry and is a trend that farmers will increasingly embrace. In response to the huge level of interest in this subject, Agritechnica 2011 will feature a special show section titled “Smart Farming – Intelligent and sustainable plant production”.
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The term "Darjeeling" has been formally registered as a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) for an Indian tea. It has been added to the more than 1000 names of agricultural products and foodstuffs protected as PGI or PDO (Protected Designation of Origin).
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The number of customers deciding in favour of organic products all over the world is still growing – whether for food, cosmetics or clothing. BioFach, the World Organic Trade Fair, and the parallel Vivaness, Trade Fair for Natural Personal Care and Wellness, gather the sector’s international players at the NürnbergMesse location once a year. It’s time again from 15–18 February 2012, when some 2,500 exhibitors (2011: 2,544) and 44,000 trade visitors are expected once more at the exhibition duo in the organic city Nürnberg. The special highlight is India as Country of the Year 2012.
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The European Commission has added two names of agricultural products and foodstuffs to the Register of Protected Designations of Origin (PDO) and Protected Geographical Indications (PGI):
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To meet growing demand for secure supplies of high-quality food and at the same time step up competitiveness in the face of growing market pressures, EU farm policy must become fairer and less - not more - bureaucratic, said Agriculture Committee MEPs, debating post-2013 reform proposals with Commissioner Dacian Cioloş in Strasbourg on Monday. Neither should "greening" measures hinder cultivation of arable land, they added.
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The term "Darjeeling" has been formally registered as a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) for an Indian tea.
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USDA is sending out a help-wanted alert to attract more diversity among the members of its seven agricultural trade advisory committees. In particular, the agency is looking for agriculturally-employed people who represent minorities, women, or persons with disabilities.
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There's a lot to consider when you buy a new machine. Will it do the task it's intended for? What will its residual value be at the point when it is ready to be replaced? Most of all – can you afford it?
Determining what is and what isn't affordable is never easy, however for all farming businesses there is a level of investment that is appropriate to their size, enterprise spread and profitability.
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Pioneer Hi-Bred, a DuPont business, is uniquely positioned to address global food challenges by boosting crop yield and quality and delivering healthier food products.
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Biomass plays an important role in everyday life, mainly for nutrition but also as raw material for energy or in construction. In the future, biomass will play an even more prominent role as a major substitute for crude oil as feedstock for energy and in the production of bulk and fine chemicals.
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Agritechnica 2011 is where the entire agricultural sector - from farmers to equipment distributors and the scientific community - can come together to meet, network and invest in the sector. While volatility in prices and market forces may be beyond our control, the knowledge on how to ride the crests and troughs of cyclical trends could give agriculturalists a sense of confidence and better management of their business risks.
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Effectively addressing the challenges of delivering sustainable agriculture demands a multidisciplinary approach which integrates social, environmental, economic and R&D dimensions, according to a new study presented in Brussels today by the Barilla Center for Food & Nutrition (BCFN).
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The European Commission today added the name "Kabanosy", a Polish sausage, to the list of "traditional specialities guaranteed".
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The burden of red tape on farmers associated with rural development is below 5% of the total public expenditure for the measures, according to a new report. The report also presents a number of good practices and shows that e-government solutions, the streamlining of procedures and the use of less burdensome reimbursement approaches can reduce the level of red tape on farmers even further.
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Today, the European Commission has adopted a decision declaring incompatible with the internal market three State aid schemes concerning the rescheduling of debts in a series of Greek departments (Kastoria, Euboea, Florina, Kilkis, Rhodopos, Evros, Xanthi, Dodecanese and the islands of Lesbos, Samos and Chios).
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council will meet in Luxemburg on 20 (starting at 10.00) and 21 October, under the presidency of Mr Marek Sawicki, Polish Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development. Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Commissioner Maria Damanaki, Agriculture and Rural Development Commissioner Dacian Cioloş, and Health and Consumer Policy Commissioner John Dali will represent the Commission.
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DeLaval and Cornell University are pleased to announce a new development in their continuing partnership to bring innovative, safe and productive solutions to the dairy industry. The Ivy League School will equip its new teaching dairy barn with DeLaval milking equipment and herd management solutions.
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Following the announcement of Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Dacian Cioloş at the G-20 agricultural ministers meeting in June 2011, the Commission has now published for the first time a short term outlook for main agricultural commodity markets
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Five Member States - Denmark, the Netherlands, Austria, Cyprus and Luxembourg - exceeded their dairy quotas in 2010/2011, resulting in a super levy of about €55.57 million. Despite the overrun of the quotas in these Member States, total EU production remained well below the total quota volume.
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With over 600 exhibitors from 29 countries, the AgroTech Russia International Exhibition for Agricultural Machinery has registered the best attendance since its inception four years ago. The exhibition was held from 8 to 11 October 2010 at the All-Russian Exhibition Centre in Moscow as part of ‘Russian Agricultural Industry Week’ which has developed this year from the traditional ‘Golden Autumn’ exhibition.
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DeLaval has sold it first VMS, Voluntary Milking System in Turkey. The Farm Sarp - is the first robotic milking farm in the country and they are aiming to be the Turkey’s most production efficient farm.
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Cultivating biomass for energy production is a growing field of agriculture. In Germany every fourth hectare of maize is used to produce biogas. Farmers are concentrating on new varieties, as well as on suitable machinery and equipment for cultivating and harvesting and for producing biogas.
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On 18 October 2011, the European Commission will organise a conference on the 'socio-economic dimensions of GMO cultivation'. This conference will take place in Brussels under the chairmanship of EU Commissioner John Dalli.
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A total of € 214 million of EU agricultural policy funds unduly spent by Member States is being claimed back by the European Commission today under the so-called clearance of accounts procedure. This money returns to the EU budget because of non-compliance with EU rules or inadequate control procedures on agricultural expenditure. Member States are responsible for paying out and checking expenditure under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), and the Commission is required to ensure that Member States have made correct use of the funds.
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EESC president's statement on the European Commission's CAP reform proposals launched on the 12October 2011
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CEJA, the European Council of Young Farmers, welcomes the measures for young farmers included in both Pillars of the proposed CAP package, presented today by Commissioner Dacian Cioloş.
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The Common Agricultural Policy is due to be reformed by 2013. After a wide-ranging public debate the Commission presented on 18 November 2010 a Communication on "The CAP towards 2020", which outlines options for the future CAP and launched the debate with the other institutions and with stakeholders. On 12 October 2011 the Commission presented a set of legal proposals designed to make the CAP a more effective policy for a more competitive and sustainable agriculture and vibrant rural areas.
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The Commission has today published proposals for Four basic Council regulations for the Common Agriculture Policy – i) on Direct Payments, ii) the Single Common Market Organisation (CMO), iii) Rural Development and, iv) a Horizontal Regulation for financing, managing and monitoring the CAP. In addition, there are 3 smaller regulations to address transition arrangements to the new rules. The package also contains: An Explanatory Memorandum; Citizens Summary; and Annexes linked with different aspects of the Impact Assessment.
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The European Commission has presented today a draft reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) for the period after 2013. This draft aims to strengthen the competitiveness, sustainability and permanence of agriculture throughout the EU in order to secure for European citizens a healthy and high-quality source of food, preserve the environment and develop rural areas.
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Reacting to EU Commission proposals on the future Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), Copa-Cogeca called for more emphasis to be put on measures which improve the profitability and productivity of the EU agriculture and agri-food sector, as well as benefiting the environment.
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Monsanto has announced it will purchase Beeologics, a biological research firm. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
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Oct. 4, 2011 2:19pmEmailinShare.Comments 0 .The 2011 harvest will soon be under way, and with National Farm Safety and Health Week occurring Sept. 18–24, now is a good time to remind children how dangerous grain can be during harvest and throughout the year as it is transported and stored on the farm.
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From 25 to 28 October 2011, the African Development Bank, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) will jointly host the sixth annual African Economic Conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
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European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Cioloş today formally opened the CEJA photo exhibition „„Putting a face to food, know the farmer behind the product”.
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The international exhibition for agricultural machinery and equipment Agritechnica 2011, being held from 15 to 19 November 2011 (Preview days on 13 and 14 November) at the Exhibition Grounds in Hanover, has displayed a hitherto unrivalled appeal for manufacturers of tractors, agricultural machinery, accessories and spare parts from home and abroad. With 2,611 direct exhibitors and 48 additionally represented companies from 48 countries, DLG as organizer can report a new record level. The number of exhibitors is around 15 percent higher than at the previous record event two years ago.
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This year's Agritechnica will be bigger than ever and this is also reflected in the number of innovations presented. With over 2600 exhibitors from 48 countries in 24 halls, Agritechnica 2011 promises a huge display of innovations.
From among the over 300 innovations presented, an impartial commission of experts appointed by the DLG and judging on the basis of stringent criteria has selected altogether two innovations for Gold Medals and 39 innovations for Silver Medals. The winning exhibitors are:
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The European Commission informed Member States at today's Management Committee meeting of its intention to open in the coming weeks the tendering procedure for aid for private storage (PSA) of olive oil. This proposal follows the fall in prices in recent weeks, which has seen Spanish virgin olive oil prices drop below the triggering level for PSA.
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The concept of enhancing the link between Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) payments and environmental protection throughout the EU and limiting the amount of payments any individual farm can receive are broadly supported by EU citizens, according to a EUROBAROMETER opinion poll published today.
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Authorized by the Bioenergy Program for Advanced Biofuels, USDA will make payments to energy producers to expand the advanced biofuels market using eligible feedstocks like cellulose and crop residue.
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The European Union spends around € 55 billion per year on agriculture and rural development, some of which is wrongly paid due to irregular or incorrect claims or other errors. This special report examines the procedures for recovery of undue payments. In particular, it focuses on recoveries by Member State authorities and the monitoring role of the Commission.
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Maria Damanaki, Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, will visit Dublin and Galway from 22 to 23 September 2011 to present and discuss with Irish stakeholders the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), proposed by the Commission in July.
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Dacian Cioloș, Member of the European Commission Responsible for Agriculture and Rural Development
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Bayer CropScience today revealed a new four pillar strategy for future growth at the company’s annual press conference in Monheim, Germany. Sandra E. Peterson, CEO of Bayer CropScience, outlined the company’s commitment to drive business growth by focusing on four key objectives, including:
1.) Rejuvenate its core Crop Protection business
2.) Reinvent customer-centricity along the entire value chain (seed-to-shelf),
3.) Refocus its innovation through increased R&D investment
4.) Extend the company’s BioScience business
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Copa-Cogeca highlighted the benefits of EU agriculture production and forestry for the environment, employment and green growth at the Koli Forum today, stressing that it makes a major contribution to the Europe 2020 strategy.
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CEJA requests the pleasure of your company at the opening reception of the CEJA young farmers photo exhibition that will take place on 29th September 2011, at the Berlaymont building.
Commissioner for Agriculture Dacian Cioloş will formally open the exhibit at 6pm.
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Addressing EU Agriculture Ministers on the occasion of the Informal Agriculture Council held under the Polish Presidency, CEJA President Joris Baecke reiterated that future policy tools should address young farmers’ needs. The theme of the event was the future promotion policy of agriculture products.
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Pioneer Hi-Bred, a DuPont business, announced today at a press conference in Kiev, a $10 MM (US) investment in a logistics facility at Stasi, Dykanka region, Poltava oblast, Ukraine. Construction is underway at the facility which will be operational in time for the 2012 sales season supporting the increased customer demand for Pioneer® brand maize, sunflower and oilseed rape hybrids in Ukraine.
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Agritechnica is the world’s largest forum for presenting new agricultural machinery and equipment.
This year the exhibition more than meets this distinction. Over 320 innovations have been submitted to the organizer DLG (Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft – German Agricultural Society).
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The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has issued a report with the latest Member State monitoring results of the levels of furan found in food. This is the third report on furan in food published by EFSA since 2009. With the inclusion of 2009 and 2010 findings, the report comprises 17% new data and is the first to include exposure estimates for different populations drawn from data from EFSA’s recently established Comprehensive European Food Consumption Database.
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A bigger site and new technology-focused Action Areas aim to make the new-look Tillage-Live event an even more useful source of information than the many successful editions that have gone before.
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The European Commission today adopted a proposal that will, when implemented, further enhance food safety and better safeguard animal health in the EU.
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Although home values have gone down, the value of Illinois farmland is up by 18 percent. According to an August 4th report released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the price of Illinois farmland averaged $5,800 per acre in 2011, an increase of 18 percent over the 2010 level of $4,900.
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Only 20 years ago, robots still conjured up an image of uncomplaining humanoid machines performing repetitive tasks while their owners sipped Pimms beside a sun-soaked swimming pool.
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According to the second estimates for the Economic Accounts for Agriculture (EAA) submitted to Eurostat, agricultural income per annual work unit (Indicator A1) increased by
12.6 % in the EU in 2010.
This followed a decrease of 10.0 % in 2009. In 2010, agricultural labour input in the EU decreased by 1.5%.
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Today the European Commission agreed to measures that should make a significant contribution to getting some of the EU's most troubled economies back on track.
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In line with the announcement of the EU Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Dacian Cioloş at the 19 July Agricultural Council, the Commission services have announced yesterday at the Management Committee the intention of increasing the maximum amounts of support for market withdrawals for peaches and nectarines.
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Dacian Ciolos, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, will visit China from Sunday, 20th March until Friday 25nd March to promote quality European food and drink products which carry Geographical Indications (GIs).
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Member States agreed to a Commission proposal to increase the EU support under the emergency plan for vegetable producers affected by the E-Coli crisis from € 210 million to € 227 million. This will allow the Commission to pay 100% of the demands for compensation from the different Member States.
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The U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance (USFRA), comprised of prominent national, regional and state agricultural groups and their partners, today announced plans to lead a conversation with Americans, addressing concerns about their food, where it comes from and how it's raised.
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Today, the European Commission launches a promotion campaign in print media and TV in all EU Member States to encourage the consumption of fruit and vegetables. In recent weeks, the e-coli crisis forced farmers to dispose of perfectly safe vegetables left to rot by concerned consumers.
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The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on Tuesday 19 July (starting at 10 a.m.). It will be chaired by Mr Marek SAWICKY, Polish Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development. Commissioners Maria Damanaki and Dacian Cioloş will represent the Commission.
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On 14 July 2011, the EU and Georgia signed an agreement on the protection of Geographical Indications – the first such agreement with a country which is part of the Neighbourhood Policy. The EU was represented by the Polish Presidency and the European Commission.
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The European Commission has today launched a debate on the future of promotion and information schemes for EU agricultural products. With the publication of a Green Paper on these issues, the Commission is looking at how to shape a more targeted and more ambitious strategy for the future, which will make clearer to consumers – both in the EU and beyond - the quality, traditions and added-value of European agricultural and food products.
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Today the College of Commissioners of the European Commission presented a long expected package of conclusions on the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). The discussion on the shape of the CFP has already been commenced by the Commission back in 2009 with drafting of a green paper, with the objective to begin a broader consultation process.
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The European Commission has announced that anti-dumping measures on potash imports from Russia and Belarus will expire as of 13th July 2011. The restrictions date from 1992, and have had the effect of limiting the availability of reasonably priced supplies of this vital input in food production.
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The purpose of the pilot project is to analyse the costs of compliance with environmental, animal welfare and food safety legislation for both EU and third country farmers, to compare the situation between the EU and main trading partner countries and to draw conclusions with respect to the impact on the competitiveness of EU agriculture.
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The purpose of the study is to examine the transmission of price changes in the sugar sector; i.e. the extent to which variations of producer prices are transmitted to final consumers, including the intermediate stages of the food chain.
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Today the Joint Programming Initiative “Agriculture, Food Security and Climate Change” (FACCE-JPI), jointly led by France, through its National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA) and the UK, through the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), announced the opening of a call for proposals for a pilot action on “A detailed climate change risk assessment for European agriculture and food security”.
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On 11-12 July 2011 in Sopot one of the most important meetings of the Polish Environmental Presidency - Informal Council of the Ministers of Environment - will take place. The informal meeting of the ministers of environment is a show-piece of the Presidency in the given thematic scope and the opportunity to hold a political debate in the issues indicated by the Presidency as the most important. The Ministry of Environment will invite the ministers to present their views on the topics recognized as priorities by the Presidency: climate protection in the world and adaptation to climate change, resource-efficiency and summarizing the activities within environment protection within the past 20 years. It will be a perfect opportunity to face the challenges as regards the environment in the European Union. This is one of the most significant areas in the cooperation between Member States, where working out the uniform joint provisions is the key to achieve the objectives.
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Egypt's ministry of agriculture denied that fenugreek seeds exported to Europe had caused an E.coli outbreak that has killed 50 people, mainly in Germany.
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The purpose of this synthesis is to summarize and analyse the mid-term evaluations organised under the responsibility of the Member States with a focus on the results and impacts achieved so far by the 2007-2013 Rural Development Programmes.
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The European Commission has approved 26 programmes in 13 Member States to provide information on and to promote agricultural products in the European Union. The total budget for the programmes, which will run for between one and three years, is €75.1 million, of which the EU will contribute €37.6 million (50%). The selected programmes cover wine, PDOs, PGIs and TSGs, organic food and farming, fruit and vegetables, horticulture, milk and milk products, olive oil and table olives, eggs, seed oil and meat.
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The ‘reduction’ (in real terms) of the CAP budget to 36.2% in the 2014-2020 EU Multiannual Financial Framework does not necessarily induce a reduction of the CAP’s external impacts, particularly for developing countries.
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The proposal to maintain the current level for funding of agriculture is to be welcomed but concerns remain about the distribution of funds.
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At a high-level meeting on the future of the EU beef sector, Copa-Cogeca highlighted the crisis facing the sector and called on the EU Commission to take immediate action to improve the drastic situation.
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The Commission's DG Agriculture has published a new "Agricultural Markets Brief", which looks at recent factors driving price developments in agricultural markets over the long term.
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The European Commission has today decided that the aid given by Belgium to fund screening tests for transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE) for bovines between 1 January 2003 and 30 June 2004 was not compatible with the rules on State aid in agriculture.
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The Single Payment Scheme (SPS) is the major mechanism for providing EU farmers with financial support. It intends to encourage farmers to better respond to market demand and to promote agricultural practices protective for the environment.
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Key stakeholders discussed the importance of pollination and the role of pollinator species at a conference at the European Parliament today. Delegates agreed on the need to improve conditions for pollinators in Europe and acknowledged that more research is required to understand the drivers of pollinator population change and guide conservation measures.
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RAGT Semences and Bayer CropScience, based in Monheim, Germany, have signed a license and cooperation agreement. Under the agreement, RAGT grants Bayer CropScience access to winter wheat germplasm and associated molecular markers.
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council will meet in Luxembourg on Tuesday 28 June, under the presidency of Mr Sandor Fazekas, Hungarian Minister of Rural Development. Maritime Affairs & Fisheries Commissioner Maria Damanaki, Health and Consumer Policy Commissioner John Dalli and Agriculture & Rural Development Commissioner Dacian Cioloş will represent the Commission at the meeting. The
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Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Dacian Cioloş welcomed the unanimous support of G20 members to the action plan on food price volatility and agriculture yesterday in Paris.
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Demand for food is outpacing supply, driving up prices and eating into reserves. Agriculture ministers from the Group of 20 nations will meet in Paris this week to discuss how to combat food shortage and soaring prices.
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During 2011, Xergi’s French subsidiary, Xergi SAS, will supply a biogas plant to the French bio-energy company META-BIO Energies in the town of Bel-Air de Combrée in western France. French Caisse des Dépôts participates in the project with an equity of up to 23 per cent of the share capital together with Société Groupe Chazé Environnement.
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Pioneer Hi-Bred, a DuPont business announced today the opening of its third maize research centre in Langenbach, district of Freising in Bavaria.
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Yesterday's Management Committee has voted through an emergency aid package for fresh vegetable growers worth €210 million.
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In 2010, forest and other wooded land1 covered 178 million hectares in the EU27, or around 40% of its land area. The EU27 accounted for about 4% of the world's total forest area. In the EU27, three quarters of forest area was available for wood supply in 2010. In forests available for wood supply, the volume of increment (new growth) exceeded the volume of fellings by more than one third in 2010.
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Copa-Cogeca broadly welcomed today the vote by European Parliament on the new Multiannual Financial Framework and the EU budget after 2013, which calls for agricultural funds to be at least maintained after 2013. Copa-Cogeca insists that agricultural funds must not be transferred to other sectors.
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Nestlé has been named the winner of the Stockholm Industry Water Award for its leadership and performance to improve water management in its internal operations and throughout its supply chain.
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Please find enclosed the letters concerning the situation of the fruit & vegetable sector and the drought in Europe, which have been sent to Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr Ciolos and President of the Agriculture Council, Mr Fazekas.
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Top event for the plant production sector at the DLG International Crop Production Center in Bernburg-Strenzfeld (Saxony Anhalt) from 19 to 21 June 2012 - Registration deadline for exhibitors in the trial field is 8 July 2011
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The June 15 deadline is approaching for IFAJ's newest award, the IFAJ-YARA Award for Reporting on Sustainable World Agriculture.
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Agriculture Minister Joe Ludwig said the decision was based on footage collected by Animals Australia that showed cattle being mistreated before slaughter.
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EU Farm Leaders warned EU Agriculture Ministers at their informal meeting today that livestock production will cease in many rural areas of the EU if the EU goes ahead with its current plans to review and re-classify support in less favoured areas (LFA).
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Addressing EU Agriculture Ministers at the occasion of the Informal Agriculture Council held under the Hungarian Presidency, CEJA called on EU decision makers to renew their commitment to Europe’s livestock sector to make it attractive and viable to future producers. The theme of the event was ‘How should the CAP contribute to a sustainable animal husbandry sector in Europe.’
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At PotatoEurope 2011 the focus will be on growing, fertilizing, plant protection, production techniques, processing and sales. Test plots, machinery demonstrations for planting, picking and storing and several information booths add to the specialised offerings of this potato fair.
Don’t miss this trade fair! We promise you:
- presentation of international innovations in the potato sector
- practical presentations and exhibition booths
- contact with professionals from the potato sectors from Belgium and abroad
In the heart of the European potato-growing region, Kain is exceptionally easy to get to, for both Belgian and foreign visitors.
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Copa-Cogeca welcomed today MEPs demands for the continuation of a strong sustainable Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), and the maintenance of its budget, in today’s vote on EU Commission plans on the future CAP.
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Young farmers need more policy measures from the CAP 2013 reform according to a report adopted today by the EU Parliament’s Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development (COM AGRI).
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The ex-post evaluation will examine the implementation of the Scheme in the Member States and the effectiveness, efficiency and relevance of the specific measures, in particular concerning the establishment of well functioning School Fruit Schemes in the Member States and the impact of the Scheme on improving children's eating habits.
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La Commission européenne a ajouté trois dénominations de produits agricoles et alimentaires à la liste des appellations d'origine protégées (AOP) et indications géographiques protégées (IGP).
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Opening today, Green Week 2011 launches a call for citizens to “use less and live better”. During the conference’s four days, over 3500 participants will look for ways to use our planet’s resources more sustainably. This year's Green Week gathers participants from a wide variety of backgrounds, including EU institutions, business and industry, non-governmental organisations, public authorities, the scientific community, academia and the media.
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The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on Tuesday 17 May (starting at 11.00 a.m.). It will be chaired by Mr Sándor Fazekas, Hungarian Minister for Rural Development. Commissioners John Dalli and Dacian Cioloş will represent the Commission at the meeting.
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The aim of this retrospective evaluation is to assess the implementation, effectiveness, efficiency and relevance of the measures relating to the EU Forest Action Plan. The evaluation will cover all Member States for the period of 2007-2011, giving more emphasis to the period not covered by the mid-term evaluation of the Action Plan, which was completed in 2009. The contract will be awarded under the best-value-for-money procedure.
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The honey pomelo "Guanxi Mi You", the apple "Shaanxi ping guo" and the tea "Longjing Cha" have this week been formally registered as Protected Denominations of Origin (PDO) and the yam "Lixian Ma Shan Yao" as Protected Geographical Indication (PGI). They are part of the 10 Chinese product names to be protected in the EU register as part of the "10 plus 10" project.
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The EU leads research in the field innovation in plant breeding, but still lags behind in patenting the resulting technologies, a study reveals. The report, published today by the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC) notes that 45% of peer-reviewed scientific research publications in the field worldwide are produced in the EU, followed by North America with 32%. On the other hand, 65% of the total patenting of resulting technologies is carried out by US-based institutions.
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By early 2014, all shipments of wood products to the European Union from Liberia will be required to carry a license certifying their legal origin. A Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) to that end was signed on 9 May by the EU and Liberia, which contains over half of the remaining rainforest in West Africa.
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Strong storm cells swept through parts of East and North Central Texas on April 27, bringing tornadoes along with some much needed rain, reported Texas AgriLife Extension Service personnel.
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The European Commission has launched a call for tenders for a study on the value of production of agricultural products and foodstuffs, wines, aromatised wines and spirits protected by a geographical indication.
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We are a broad range of organisations -see list here under- who are concerned with the future of food and agriculture in Europe. As in other regions in the world, the number of people and organizations that are working towards a fairer, more inclusive and sustainable food system is growing. Many of them are actively engaged in building a viable alternative to the current food production, distribution and consumption - from the bottom up. This new system of food and agriculture is firmly grounded on equity, the universal right to food, good governance and transparency.
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New World agricultural trade reached an all-time high in 2010 - at least 12% above the previous record set in 2008 - according to a new MAP (Monitoring Agri-trade Policy) report published by the Commission's Directorate-General for Agriculture & Rural Development. In fact, this 20% recovery came after a 6% slump in agricultural trade in 2009. This compares with a 14.5% expansion in global trade in goods & services last year following a 12% drop in global trade the previous year.
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The Commission today presented a new strategy to protect and improve the state of Europe's biodiversity over the next decade. The strategy includes six targets which address the main drivers of biodiversity loss, and which will reduce the main pressures on nature and ecosystem services in the EU by anchoring biodiversity objectives in key sectoral policies. The global aspects of biodiversity loss are also addressed, ensuring that the EU contributes to combating biodiversity loss around the world. The strategy is in line with the commitments made by the EU in Nagoya, Japan, last year.
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Following the publication of new rules* this week, EU Member State Ministries of Agriculture are required to publish before April 30 2011 detailed figures on all legal persons (companies) which are beneficiaries of Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) funding in 2010.
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Telehandlers used to feature mainly on larger mixed and arable farms, rather than smaller livestock units. But there's recently been a trend for manufacturers to offer a compact model with big-machine performance that can weave in and out of tight spaces while still being man enough to fill the diet feeder.
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The European Commission today added the names "Kiełbasa myśliwska" and "Kiełbasa jałowcowa", two Polish sausages, to the list of "traditional specialities guaranteed" (TSG).
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A total of € 530 million of EU agricultural policy funds unduly spent by Member States is being claimed back by the European Commission today under the so-called clearance of accounts procedure. This money returns to the EU budget because of non-compliance with EU rules or inadequate control procedures on agricultural expenditure. Member States are responsible for paying out and checking expenditure under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), and the Commission is required to ensure that Member States have made correct use of the funds.
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In a high-level meeting with the Hungarian Presidency, Copa-Cogeca warned against relaxing existing rules governing EU quality policy in the future. The move came as EU Agriculture Ministers debated the EU Commission plans on future EU quality policy.
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High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice President of the Commission Catherine Ashton today on behalf of the European Union signed an Agreement with Prime Minister Fayyad that gives all agricultural products, processed agricultural products and fish and fishery products originating in the West Bank and Gaza Strip immediate duty free access to the EU market.
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Copa-Cogeca warned against further liberalising agriculture trade with the Latin American Trade Bloc Mercosur at a public hearing today.
Mercosur has already seen phenomenal growth in its agricultural exports, with its trade surplus increasing fivefold since 2000, and the EU is its main market.
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Copa-Cogeca warned against today a new EU Commission proposal to introduce an EU carbon tax in the EU agriculture, horticulture, fishery and forestry sectors and to withdraw tax exemptions, claiming EU farmers are already being squeezed by high input costs and the move would further erode their competitiveness.
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The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Luxembourg on Thursday 14 April (starting at 11 a.m.). It will be chaired by Mr Sándor Fazekas, Hungarian Minister for Rural Development. Commissioners Maria Damanaki and Dacian Cioloş will represent the Commission at the meeting.
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The European Commission has today presented its proposal to overhaul the outdated rules on the taxation of energy products in the European Union. The new rules aim to restructure the way energy products are taxed to remove current imbalances and take into account both their CO2 emissions and energy content.
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Generational renewal in agriculture was debated by MEPs and young farmers today at the European Parliament in Brussels at an event organized by MEP Milan Zver of the EPP group and CEJA, the European Council of Young Farmers.
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Nestlé today opened a new EUR 117 million (over CHF 149 million) factory in Germany dedicated to producing hypoallergenic (HA) infant formula.
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EU leaders from the European Farmers’ Organisation Copa today elected Gerd Sonnleitner as the new President for the period 2011-2013. He will succeed Padraig Walshe whose term-in-office has expired.
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On April 5th, 2011, the European Feed Ingredients Platform organised a symposium on "The Contribution of Sector Guides and Certifiable Codes to Feed Safety in the EU". The event took place at the Royal Library of Belgium in Brussels.
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A hearing on the future of young farmers took place at the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) today in Brussels. The event co-coincides with a report currently under development by the EU’s civil society representatives at the EESC that aims to collect information on the situation of young farmers and propose measures to help them. CEJA welcomes the ambition of the current draft opinion, which is the first from an EU institution calling for measures for young farmers in both Pillar I and Pillar II of the CAP.
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Copa-Cogeca highlighted today measures taken to help improve the drastic situation in the EU pigmeat sector, which were called for by Copa-Cogeca and proved successful, and outlined new measures to improve the long-term situation.
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The European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC) and the UK Government Office for Science are tomorrow (30 March) holding a high-level seminar to discuss the challenges for food security and sustainability, both inside and outside of the European Union. It will take place in the Charlemagne building (Mansholt room).
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Connie Hedegaard, European Commissioner for Climate Action, will visit Budapest today to participate in the informal meeting of Environment Ministers on 25-26 March. Next week she will visit Riga and Stockholm on 28 and 29 March respectively for talks on a range of climate change issues with government ministers and other stakeholders.
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Farmland values are racing ahead at a breathless pace, according to the latest survey released Tuesday by the Iowa Farm and Land Chapter of the Realtors Land Institute.
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The European Crop Protection Association (ECPA) today recognised the United Nations’ annual World Water Day, a date designated to highlight the importance of freshwater and the sustainable management of freshwater resources.
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To celebrate World Water Day, Copa-Cogeca highlighted the importance of water as an essential factor in agricultural production, and emphasised the need for farmers to have adequate support and access to water supplies.
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Meeting in Hanghzou (China), Dacian Cioloş, European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development and the Chinese Vice-Minister Sun Dawei, in charge of the Administration of quality supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ), welcomed protection of key geographical indications (GI) in China and the EU.
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Dacian Ciolos, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, will visit China from Sunday, 20th March until Friday 25nd March to promote quality European food and drink products which carry Geographical Indications (GIs).
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A continuation of support to farmers is crucial if society is to enjoy food security and environmental protection, but subsidies should only be paid to active farmers, the European Economic and Social Committee affirmed in its hotly debated opinion on the future of the Common Agriculture Policy (CAP), adopted at the plenary session yesterday.
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The aim of this retrospective evaluation is to assess the impacts of the CAP measures applied to the wine sector since the 2008 reform. The evaluation will analyse the impacts of the measures (market measures and direct payments) on wine growers, wine producers and wine products.
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Nutreco announces the cancellation of the 4,993,200 cumulative preference shares 'A', which were acquired in December 2010. This cancellation is in line with the approval of the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders on Tuesday 21 December 2010.
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In the EU27, 513 kg of municipal waste1 was generated per person in 2009. The amount generated per person varied from 316 kg in the Czech Republic and Poland to 833 kg in Denmark.
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The ‘Common’ of the CAP will be lost if Member States are encouraged to implement more optional co-financing programmes and effectively re-nationalise European agricultural policy. Young farmers demand generational renewal to be a priority in the European Parliament report on ‘The CAP towards 2020: meeting the food, natural resources and territorial challenges of the future’ by MEP Albert Dess.
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The Commission has published a new report by the Joint Research Centre looking at the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) effects of European livestock. It was commissioned to provide an estimation of the net emissions of GHG generated by EU animal production on the basis of a life-cycle assessment.
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As you are aware EFIP will organise a symposium on "The Contribution of Sector Guides and Certifiable Codes to Feed Safety in the EU". It has the aim to explore and discuss with the different stakeholders the present situation of feed safety in the EU.
We will look together at a number of key issues, such as the responsibility of the industry sectors, the role of the European Guides and certifiable feed safety management schemes in supporting the supply of safe feed. Furthermore how feed ingredient suppliers can contribute to feed safety. These are some of the items and questions we will be discussing and on which hopefully, answers can be found also in view of providing an outlook on likely future developments.
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The aim of this study is to analyse the physiological water content in poultry meat produced in the EU in order to assess whether the limits indicated in the current regulation (Commission Regulation No 543/2008) are still valid.
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The European Commission has launched its annual call for proposals to be funded under the LIFE+ programme, the European fund for the environment. Proposals are welcome under one of the programme’s three components: Nature and Biodiversity, Environment Policy and Governance, and Information and Communication. A total of €267 million is available, in the form of co-funding for grant agreements. The call is open until 15 July 2011.
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A Commission initiative to release 500 000 tonnes of out of quota sugar* onto the EU market has been backed by Member States in the Management Committee yesterday, and the Commission has also made clear its intention to open an import quota for 300 000 tonnes of raw or refined sugar at zero duty in early March. These measures come in response to the current exceptional market circumstances which see the EU sugar market in deficit and world market prices above average EU levels.
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__The European Crop Protection Association (ECPA) today launched the € 2 million TOPPS Prowadis initiative to train farmers, their advisors, land managers and pesticide operators to minimise water pollution from pesticide run-off and drift.
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The disparities between different actors in the food supply chain were highlighted at a seminar organized by CEJA, the European Council of Young Farmers and NAJK, the Dutch young farmers organization in Amsterdam during 23-24 February. Experts from the European Commission and MEP Bas Eickhout from the European Parliament among others gathered alongside Europe’s young farm leaders.
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The European Commission today added the name of four meat products to the list of "traditional specialities guaranteed" (TSG).
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Import duties on certain cereals imported into the EU will be suspended next week until the end of June 2011 in order to ease the pressure on the EU market, especially for animal feed. Backed by Member States this morning within the Management Committee, the move is intended to help maintain a good balance on the EU market.
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Import duties on certain cereals imported into the EU will be suspended next week until the end of June 2011 in order to ease the pressure on the EU market, especially for animal feed. Backed by Member States this morning within the Management Committee, the move is intended to help maintain a good balance on the EU market.
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The Piacentinu Ennese (PDO), a sheep's cheese from Italy, today became the one thousandth name to be registered under the Commission's agricultural product and foodstuff quality labels. Since their creation in 1992, the EU schemes have registered quality agricultural products and foodstuffs from across the EU and beyond. In recent years there has been a boost in applications due to enlargements of the EU and a growing interest from non-EU producers including from India, China, Thailand and Vietnam, among others.
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On April 5th, 2011, the European Feed Ingredients Platform will organise a symposium on "The Contribution of Sector Guides and Certifiable Codes to Feed Safety in the EU". It has the aim to explore and discuss with the different stakeholders the present situation of feed safety in the EU.
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Nutreco announced today that it has agreed to acquire 100% of the shares in Shihai Co Ltd., a reputable and profitable fish and shrimp feed company in China. The agreed purchase price is approximately EUR 40 million. The revenue in 2010 was EUR 65 million. This acquisition will provide Skretting, the Nutreco aquaculture feed business, with a production base in China, the world's number 1 aquaculture feed market. The acquisition is fully in line with the strategy to capitalise on Nutreco's leading fish feed positions and diversify by expanding in new regions and into feed for other species and shrimp. The closing of the transaction is subject to permission being granted by the authorities in China.
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Agriculture and food are of great significance to people’s life, not only because food is a basic need, but also because of social and cultural reasons. However, concerns are increasingly being raised about the negative environmental and socio-economic impact of current agricultural and food consumption practices. Current food production and consumption depletes natural resources (soil, water, air) and contributes to global warming and biodiversity loss.
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The world’s largest exhibition for agricultural machinery and equipment, Agritechnica, waiting to open its gates this November, is attracting more manufacturers of tractors, agricultural machinery and equipment from Germany and abroad than ever before. This is evident from the stand bookings received to date, which are about ten per cent up on the last event in 2009. The organiser DLG (Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft – German Agricultural Society) is accordingly expecting more than 2,000 exhibitors from Germany and other countries to take part in the show this year too.
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Copa-Cogeca warned today of the difficult market situation for the EU olive oil sector and urged the EU Commission to activate private storage aid to improve the drastic situation.
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CEJA, the European Council of Young Farmers, met today with EU Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso in Brussels to highlight the negative demographic trend in Europe's agricultural sector. Currently only 6% of farmers are under the age of 35 across Europe.
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In a high level meeting today with EU Commission President José Manuel Barroso, Copa- Cogeca highlighted the huge role that the EU agriculture sector plays in the economy, employing almost 30 million people and maintaining growth in the rural areas in the EU.
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Measures to aid the private storage of pigmeat in order to ease the particularly difficult market situation have been finalised in the Management Committee today, and will enter into force already next week.
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Faced with extreme market volatility and growing food demand, EU Farm Leaders highlighted at a hearing today the need for a dynamic Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) which maintains EU farmers production capacity and competitive position.
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Natural resources, from raw materials to food, water, air and ecosystems, are fundamental to the functioning of our economy and our quality of life. But global strains on them are increasing. Building a more resource-efficient Europe is therefore crucial to the EU’s economic and ecological security.
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It is regions and cities that translate European targets into concrete action on the ground. How EU lawmakers can harness this hands-on experience will dominate the Committee of the Regions plenary session on 27 and 28 January.
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The European Union has come a long way in its efforts to better protect Animal Health, ensuring along the way Food Safety. The role of the veterinary profession, which celebrates this year its 250th anniversary, has been pivotal in making food in the EU safe.
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CEJA President Joris Baecke spoke at the International Green Week taking place today in Berlin, Germany.
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The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on Monday 24 January (starting at 11 a.m.). It will be chaired by Mr Sándor Fazekas, Hungarian Minister for Rural Development. Commissioners John Dalli and Dacian Cioloş will represent the Commission at the meeting.
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Mosaic Company (NYSE: MOS), one of the world's leading providers of crop nutrients and feed ingredients for the global agriculture industry, and Cargill, a privately held international producer and marketer of food, agriculture, financial and industrial products and services, today jointly announced a transaction that would result in the distribution of Cargill's 64 percent stake, or 286 million share position, in Mosaic to Cargill's shareholders and debt holders.
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CEJA welcomes the focus in an EU Parliament report on food security adopted today in the Strasbourg plenary session.
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How will we be able to feed close to 9 billion people in 2050 in a sustainable way? “Agrimonde”, is dedicated to the presentation and the discussion of the foresight study undertaken in this perspective by Inra and Cirad. Marion Guillou, President of Inra, and Patrick Caron, Deputy Director General of Cirad, presented ,in the presence of the principal authors, the results of this study on worldwide food and agricultural issues in the year 2050.
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The Commission's DG AGRI has also published three new Agricultural Policy Perspective Briefs, to provide information on specific aspects of the Common Agricultural Policy within the context of the debate on the post-2013 CAP.
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Copa-Cogeca warned today of a new EU Commission report on medium-term prospects for agricultural markets which shows a sharp decline in EU market shares in the meat sector, partly as a result of costly EU regulations.
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A set of new market forecasts for agricultural production & consumption in the EU-27 over the period 2010-2020 has been published by the Commission. Based on specific economic and policy assumptions, the estimates by the Directorate-General for Agriculture & Rural development (DG AGRI) outlines the expected market trends in the coming years.
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The European Commission Directorate-General for Agriculture and Rural Development has published its annual report for 2010 on rural development policy, aimed at providing a comprehensive set of information on rural areas and on policy implementation.
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Statement by John Dalli, Commissioner in charge of Health and Consumer Policy, on the dioxin incident in Germany
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Today, the whole food chain is more complex than ever. Many challenges face all involved, be it in agriculture, food production, policy making and regulatory bodies, or research and development. Goals include increasing the sustainability of food production systems, assuring the safety of food products, conferring health-promoting properties to food products, and dealing with the shift in age profile of the consumer.
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The European Commission has today formally approved a package of 13 programmes in the fields of health, climate change (environment and disaster risk reduction), education and culture, trade and private sector development, agriculture and rural development and sanitary services.
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The European Commission has sent a consignment of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccine to Zambia in order to help the African nation's efforts in fighting an outbreak of the disease in the northern part of the country.
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Draft agreement for full liberalisation of trade in agricultural & fisheries products originating in The European Commission and the Palestinian Authority of the West Bank and Gaza Strip have agreed the text of a draft accord on further liberalisation of EU imports of agricultural products, processed agricultural and fish and fishery products.
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The Commission published today a report on indirect land use change related to biofuels and bioliquids. The report acknowledges that indirect land use change can reduce greenhouse gas emissions savings associated with biofuels, but also identifies a number of uncertainties associated with the available models.
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The specific measures for agriculture in favour of the outermost regions of the European Union and the smaller Aegean islands were created to take account of the regions’ structural, social and economic situation. The European Court of Auditors has assessed the effectiveness of the specific measures after their reform in 2006.
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Copa-Cogeca welcomed today first estimates from Eurostat showing EU farm incomes rose on average by 12.3% this year, compared to 2009, but this will not be enough to compensate for the sharp declines seen in previous years.
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EU27 real agricultural income per worker1 has increased by 12.3% in 2010, following a decrease of 10.7% in 2009, according to first estimates2 issued by Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union. This increase results from a rise in real agricultural income (+9.9%), together with a fall in agricultural labour input (-2.2%).
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Harvester specialist Dewulf nv will collaborate with a consortium of companies to set up a new marketing concept for the promotion of potato technology in the regions of Friesland and Groningen, the Netherlands. The consortium will carry the name APH Noord and will consist of manufacturers that are already active within the APH Group in Joure. The ultimate goal of the new partnership is to obtain a better position in the region and to reduce the distance between the customer and the manufacturer.
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A launch failure that sent three GLONASS satellites to the bottom the Pacific Ocean in early December is expected to have little impact on Corn Belt farmers who use sophisticated navigation technology that accesses the Russian satellite system.
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The results of a new study into the role of young farmers and multifunctional farming were presented at a conference organized by CEJA, the European Council of Young Farmers, at the European Economic and Social Committee in Brussels yesterday. The Agri-multifunctionality II project collected the best practices of multifunctional farming in Europe among young farmers to see the extent of on farm diversification of activities in order to multiply income sources.
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This year marks DLG’s 125th anniversary. On 11 December 1885, engineer Max Eyth, founded DLG in Berlin together with a group of dedicated agricultural entrepreneurs and scientists. The vision they had was that of an organization that would focus on applying practical scientific and economic information as well as technical innovations and organizational know-how in agriculture, not just within Germany but across borders.
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A Nepali agriculture farm has developed nine varieties of disease-resistant and heat-tolerant tomatoes. Gorkha Seed Company, which introduced Shrijana -- the first ever Nepali hybrid tomato variety, -- is making final preparations to introduce the tomatoes in the market. “The varieties we have developed are bacteria-resistant and withstand hot climate,” senior scientist at the company Dr Kedar Budhathoki told Republica on Saturday. “We will soon name those varieties.”
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This blunder, and one minor error on our crop recommendation sheets, left two black marks. But it's nothing that can't be easily corrected. Thankfully, organic pigs and beef passed with flying colours, so the panic is over - until the next inspector calls.
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Several mergers and hostile takeover attempts headlined fertilizer industry news in 2010, and more are likely to come.
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The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on Monday 13 (starting at 9.30 a.m.) and Tuesday 14 December. It will be chaired for the Agriculture issues by Mrs Sabine Laruelle, Belgian minister for SMEs, the Self-Employment, Agriculture and Science Policy, and , for the points on Fisheries, by Mr Kris Peeters, Minister-President for the Flemish Region and responsible for Fisheries. Commissioners Maria Damanaki and Dacian Cioloş will represent the Commission at the meeting.
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Guaranteeing quality to consumers and a fair price for farmers are the twin aims of the "Quality Package" adopted today by the European Commission. This Quality Package sets up for the first time a comprehensive policy on certification schemes, value-adding terms for agricultural product qualities, and product standards.
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A few days after the European Commission outlined its vision for the future of the Common Agriculture Policy (CAP), Commissioner Cioloş discussed the issue with the European Economic and Social Committee yesterday at its December plenary session.
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What share of fresh water resources is being abstracted each year? How has the number of wild birds changed over the last 20 years? What share of GDP do environmental taxes account for? In which Member State is the most waste per capita generated? How much fertilizer is consumed in agriculture?
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In order to help inform debate on genetically modified organisms, the European Commission is publishing today a compendium entitled "A decade of EU-funded GMO research". The book summarizes the results of 50 research projects addressing primarily the safety of GMOs for the environment and for animal and human health. Launched between 2001 and 2010, these projects received funding of €200 million from the EU and form part of a 25-year long research effort on GMOs.
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The European Commission has today adopted a proposal on "contractual relations in the milk sector".
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The leaders of the main industries of the Brazilian economy met this Tuesday, in Cancun, Mexico, to present their contributions to fight climate change and reduce the country's carbon dioxide emissions.
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The European Commission has approved measures to provide information on, and to promote agricultural products in third countries. Member States submitted 24 programmes to the Commission to be examined. The 7 programmes that have been accepted are from Greece, Italy, Poland and Portugal. The products covered are PGI and PDO, wine, fruit and vegetables, meat, spirits and olive oil. The EU contribution is € 10.9 million (50% of the total budget of the programmes).
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The EESC's stance on the regulation and supervision of credit rating agencies, the EU regulation on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and the EU's energy strategy will all be discussed at the upcoming EESC plenary session, to be attended by two prominent guest speakers.
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Healthy bees are important both for honey production and as pollinators of plants, such as fruit trees. In recent years, an increase in bee mortality has been reported in several countries around the world. To get a better understanding of the reasons behind the high bee mortality worldwide, the European Commission today set out its ideas on a series of specific actions. So far, scientific studies have determined neither the exact causes nor the precise extent of the problem.
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The 7th Agriflanders agricultural fair will be held on 13th, 14th, 15th and 16th January 2011 in Flanders Expo, Gent. As usual, this is the second weekend in January, but slightly later after the New Year than in 2009. This major New Year’s celebration of Flemish Agriculture has become a real must for both visitors and exhibitors alike.
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December 3, 2010
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December 3, 2010
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The European Commission added the names of the two Dutch cheeses "Edam Holland" and "Gouda Holland" to the list of Protected Geographical Indications.
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A global event for all agricultural sector participants – manufacturers, farmers, breeders, entrepreneurs, fruit and vegetable producers, wholesalers, distributors, importers and cooperatives, among others –, the next SIMA will be more than ever before a forum for international exchanges between participants in the agricultural industry, whether they be exhibitors (50% are expected to be from outside of France) or visitors (25% from over 100 different countries).
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CEJA’s newly established ‘Young Farmers Package’ was presented today to Agriculture Commissioner Dacian Ciolos in a personal meeting and at a European Parliament workshop on the situation of young farmers organised by the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development.
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The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on Monday 29 November (starting at 10 a.m.) and (if necessary) Tuesday 30 November. It will be chaired for the Agriculture issues by Mrs Sabine Laruelle, Belgian minister for SMEs, the Self-Employment, Agriculture and Science Policy, and , for the points on Fisheries, by Mr Kris Peeters, Minister-President for the Flemish Region and responsible for Fisheries. Commissioners Maria Damanaki i, John Dalli i and Dacian Ciolos i will represent the Commission at the meeting.
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The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on Monday 29 November (starting at 10 a.m.) and (if necessary) Tuesday 30 November.
It will be chaired for the Agriculture issues by Mrs Sabine Laruelle, Belgian minister for SMEs, the Self-Employment, Agriculture and Science Policy, and , for the points on Fisheries, by Mr Kris Peeters, Minister-President for the Flemish Region and responsible for Fisheries. Commissioners Maria Damanaki, John Dalli and Dacian Ciolos will represent the Commission at the meeting.
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All countries on the Northern and Southern shores of the Mediterranean are getting ready to exhibit at Medfel!
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K+S Aktiengesellschaft and Potash One Inc. announced today that they have entered into a Support Agreement pursuant to which K+S will make an offer to acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares* of Potash One at a price of CAD 4.50 per share in cash for total consideration of approximately CAD 434 million (EUR 311 million).
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Record number of visitors with over 140,000 livestock farmers and specialists from all over the world - 23,500 international visitors - BioEnergy Decentral a resounding success
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Thorsten Herdan, Managing Director VDMA Power Systems
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The CAP towards 2020 recognises the special quality organic farm products offer to consumers, and stresses the need to further strengthen the organic quality scheme as a policy tool,” welcomes Christopher Stopes, President of the IFOAM EU Group1.
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The Communication on the future CAP unveiled today in Brussels by Agriculture and Rural Development Commissioner Dacian Ciolos made specific references to young farmers.
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EU Farm Leaders today welcomed the EU Commission’s aim to have a strong Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) in the future but warned that it’s new plans fail to respond to the challenges faced by EU farmers and cooperatives. Instead, they threaten their competitivity and economic viability.
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The European Commission today adopted a Communication on the future of the CAP entitled "The CAP towards 2020: Meeting the food, natural resources and territorial challenges of the future". This document marks the beginning of a consultation process which will continue until next spring and which will enable the Commission to prepare legislative proposals by summer 2011. The reformed CAP should enter into force on 1 January 2014.
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The European Commission has today published a Communication on "the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) towards 2020 – Meeting the food, natural resources and territorial challenges of the future". The reform aims at making the European agriculture sector more dynamic, competitive, and effective in responding to the Europe 2020 vision of stimulating sustainable growth, smart growth and inclusive growth. The paper outlines three options for further reform. Following discussion of these ideas, the Commission will present formal legislative proposals in mid-2011
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Since 2006, the EU has trained 23,000 professionals worldwide to improve food safety through its Better Training for Safer Food initiative (BTSF). Now, the European Commission is seeking to further improve this initiative. It is launching a dialogue with all key stakeholders, including the African Union, starting today at a two-day high-level conference in Brussels. A working document recently adopted by the Commission on the BTSF programme serves as the basis for discussions.
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Copa-Cogeca called for support for EU rice producers to continue under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) after 2013 in a meeting with Euro-MPs this week, and highlighted the economic, territorial and environmental importance of rice production.
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Today, the European Commission approved a project in favour of Zimbabwean smallholder farmers for a total amount of EUR 7 million which will benefit to at least one million small farmer families. The overall goal of this support is to reduce the dependency of vulnerable rural communal households on humanitarian assistance and improve their livelihoods.
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Member States have the obligation to establish a system for advising farmers on land and farm management, the so-called Farm Advisory System (FAS). It is a major component of the 2003 Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reform and had to be introduced by 2007.
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The High Level Forum for a Better Functioning Food Supply Chain is meeting for the first time in Brussels on Tuesday 16 November. It will adopt a work plan to boost competitiveness and to promote best contractual practices in the European food sector, extending the work of the previous High Level Group on the Competitiveness of the Agro-Food Industry to the whole supply chain. Vice President Antonio Tajani is leading this exercise together with his fellow Commissioners Michel Barnier (Internal Market and Services), John Dalli (Health and Consumer Policy) and Dacian Cioloş (Agriculture and Rural development).
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Sugar beet farmers from across the country are bemoaning the court ruling from last October that barred any further plantings of genetically-modified (GM) sugar beets until proper safety studies have been completed.
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The Management Committee for the Common Organisation of Agricultural Markets yesterday voted a Commission proposal to suspend the 98 €/t duty on Most Favoured Nation (MFN) sugar imports from 1 December 2010 to 31 August 2011.
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It’s time again from 16–19 February 2011, when the Nürnberg exhibition centre becomes the world’s biggest platform for the organic sector. 2,557 exhibitors and 43,669 trade visitors met at the last BioFach, the World Organic Trade Fair, and the parallel Vivaness, the Trade Fair for Natural Personal Care and Wellness.
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Renewable energy sources and bioenergy are set to play an ever increasing role in revolutionising energy supplies. There are many advantages to decentralised energy systems, one of which is the greater responsiveness to changes in demand, making for more efficient energy supply. Moving forward, the private sector is taking up initiatives to plug the gap in information-specific links, while public utilities have began to embrace more and more these new concepts in power generation and supply.
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It's the most powerful TTV tractor to be introduced by Deutz-Fahr to date - and the first tractor from the company to be fitted with a Tier IVi engine.
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What is the population of the various cities in the EU? In which EU region do people shop over the internet the most? Which EU region do tourists visit the most? How many people live in a coastal region of the EU? In which EU region is the GDP per inhabitant the highest?
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CEJA organised farm visits today for MEPs from the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development in Belgium and France. The purpose of the visit was to show MEPs a real, from the ground perspective of Europe’s young agri-entrepeneurs.
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For the third year running EU's annual accounts have received a clean bill of health from its external auditors. As for payments, the overall evaluation improves visibly, with a significant drop in errors found in aid to EU's regions.
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Sustainability and a healthy and organic lifestyle are still in great demand and worldwide sales of organic food, natural cosmetics and eco textiles are growing appreciably again. Once a year, the World Organic Trade Fair BioFach and the parallel Vivaness, Trade Fair for Natural Personal Care and Wellness, gather the international organic sector in Nürnberg – the last time with 2,557 exhibitors and 43,669 trade visitors. The exhibition duo takes place next time from 16–19 February 2011, when some 2,500 exhibitors are expected again, including 180 at Vivaness.
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A total of € 578.5 million of EU farm money unduly spent by Member States is claimed back as a result of a decision adopted today by the European Commission. This money returns to the EU budget because of non-compliance with EU rules or inadequate control procedures on agricultural expenditure. Member States are responsible for paying out and checking expenditure under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), and the Commission is required to ensure that Member States have made correct use of the funds
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The European Commission has today proposed to ban the use of phosphates and to limit the content of other phosphorous containing compounds in laundry detergents. The draft Regulation aims to reduce the phosphates found in waste water and to improve water quality.
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Statement by Henk Bleker, Minister for Agriculture and Foreign Trade at opening of the Global Conference on Agriculture, Food Security and Climate Change in The Hague, the Netherlands, 31 october 2010.
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Copper and zinc are routinely used as additives in feed for livestock and aquaculture farming. During their use as feed additives, it is inevitable that Cu and Zn will be released to the environment. Under Regulation (EC) 1831/3003 (EC, 2003), in order to protect human health, animal health and the environment, feed additives should undergo a safety assessment through a Community procedure before being placed on the market, used or processed within the Community. This project therefore assessed the environmental impact of Cu and Zn arising from use as additives in feed for livestock and aquaculture animals.
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The European Commission today added the name of the Slovak cheese produced from fresh sheep's milk in shepherd huts "Ovčí hrudkový syr - salašnícky" to the list of "traditional specialities guaranteed" (TSG).
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After 4 successful editions of the Belgian Potato Quality Award, a number of actors in the Belgian potato sector have got together to present a new competition: the INNO POTATO AWARD.
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Our 40ha of forage maize, grown annually as a cash crop and sold to local dairy farmers, is almost ready to harvest.
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DLG (German Agricultural Society) and CremonaFiere S.p.a. has agreed on a strategic partnership in the field of bioenergy and renewable energy. This partnership was announced on October 29, 2010 during „The International Dairy Cattle Show“ held in Cremona.
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Denmark, the Netherlands, and Cyprus were the only Member States which exceeded their milk quotas in the 2009/2010 quota year, triggering superlevy fines for a total of €19 million, according to provisional figures published by the European Commission today.
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DuPont, through its Pioneer Hi-Bred business, and the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) announced a one-year sponsorship to support the Master Class Initiative, a program that will provide training and networking opportunities for agricultural journalists in developing countries.
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An increasing number of mobile phone apps developed especially for agriculture are giving tech-savvy farmers a wealth of information at their fingertips.
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AFTER copping a walloping from the global financial crisis, Italy is turning to Australia to help reinvigorate its export markets - in particular its agricultural equipment and component sales.
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The studies are led by food technologist Andy (Cheng-An) Hwang with the USDA Agricultural Research Service's (ARS) Eastern Regional Research Center in Wyndmoor, Pa. ARS is USDA's principal intramural scientific research agency.
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The European Poultry Club (EPC) will host an international panel discussion on the outlook for the poultry and egg market in China, Russia and the EU, on the eve of EuroTier 2010.
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Today, the European Commission agreed to fund a programme to support the reform of the sugar sector of Zimbabwe to the tune of € 13 779 000.
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The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Luxembourg on Tuesday 26 October (starting at 10 a.m.). It will be chaired by Mrs Sabine Laruelle, Belgian minister for SMEs, the Self-Employed, Agriculture and Science Policy for the agriculture items and by Mr Kris Peeters, Minister-President for the Flemish Region with responsibility for fisheries for the fisheries items. Commissioners Maria Damanaki and Dacian Cioloş will represent the Commission at the meeting.
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With over 600 exhibitors from 29 countries, the AgroTech Russia International Exhibition for Agricultural Machinery has registered the best attendance since its inception four years ago. The exhibition was held from 8 to 11 October 2010 at the All-Russian Exhibition Centre in Moscow as part of ‘Russian Agricultural Industry Week’ which has developed this year from the traditional ‘Golden Autumn’ exhibition.
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UK registrations of agricultural tractors reached 11,413 units in the first nine months of 2010, a decline of 12.6% on the same period in the previous year, according to the latest figures from the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA).
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New Holland Agriculture was presented with two awards for engineering innovation by the Agrosalon 2010 Exhibition committee. Held from the 6th to the 9th of October 2010 at the "Crocus Expo" International Exhibition Center in Moscow, Agrosalon is one of the most important agricultural fairs in Russia, and is attended by leading Russian and foreign agricultural equipment manufacturers.
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The European Commission today decided to add the name of a traditional smoked mountain sheep cheese "Ovčí salašnícky údený syr" to the list of "traditional specialities guaranteed" (TSG) following an application from Slovakia.
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As the world’s biggest food importer Europe has an enormous influence on global food markets, prices, availability and land use. An area outside of Europe the size of Germany is already dedicated to European food needs. The FAO calls this a ‘land grab’.
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Following the successful premiere of the Chinese-European Pig Summit at EuroTier 2008, DLG is proud to host the second edition of this highly-popular Summit at EuroTier 2010. A full day of exciting presentations and networking opportunities awaits participants at the Summit, which will be held on 17 November, from 10.30 to 15.30 hours.
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Interim Tier 4 emission rules means changes to engines used in farming, from tractors to self-propelled sprayers.
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Deadline is November 5 for nominations -- Online voting by Ag community starts November 22
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At Greenmount Campus, part of the College of Agriculture Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) in Northern Ireland, they have been using solar thermal panels to heat parlour wash water since October 2009.
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Small family farms rather than large-scale enterprises are central to the future of British agriculture, according to the Prince of Wales.
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Following a detailed and comprehensive review of recent scientific literature and studies on the toxicity of bisphenol A at low doses, scientists on the European Food Safety Authority’s (EFSA) CEF[1] Panel conclude they could not identify any new evidence which would lead them to revise the current Tolerable Daily Intake[2] for BPA of 0.05 mg/kg body weight[3] set by EFSA in its 2006 opinion and re-confirmed in its 2008 opinion[4]. The Panel also state that the data currently available do not provide convincing evidence of neurobehavioural toxicity of BPA.
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State-of-the-art facility includes R&D application kitchen, high tech laboratories and new food grade oil processing pilot plant to provide food industry with shorter lead times and reduced complexity
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Copa-Cogeca approved a major declaration on the future Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) at the 2010 Congress of European Farmers today, highlighting the need for a strong CAP to help farmers and cooperatives cope with the new challenges of extreme market volatility and climate change.
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The European Commission's "Innovation Union", tabled today, sets out a strategic approach to innovation, driven by the highest political level. The Innovation Union will focus Europe's efforts – and co-operation with third countries - on challenges like climate change, energy and food security, health and an ageing population. It will use public sector intervention to stimulate the private sector and to remove bottlenecks which stop ideas reaching the market.
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Forests and other wooded areas1 occupy almost 40% of the total area of the EU, cropland nearly a quarter and grassland a further fifth, while built-up and other artificial areas2, such as roads and railways, account for 4%. Regarding socio-economic use, over 40% of the land in the EU is used for agriculture and almost 30% for forestry. The use of land for residential, commercial and industrial3 purposes accounts for just over 10% of the total area of the EU.
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In its 2010 Congress of European Farmers held in Brussels today, Copa-Cogeca urged the EU to ensure there is a competitive EU agri-food sector and a robust Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) post-2013, focusing on the economic role of EU farmers in providing food and services. Faced with declining EU farm incomes, big improvements must be made to the functioning of the EU food chain, to ensure a better return from the market for EU farmers and their cooperatives.
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Bioenergy production continues to thrive in Europe, with the agriculture sector poised to take advantage of this development. Besides offering an alternative energy source in line with sustainable development initiatives, bioenergy also benefits regions where electricity costs are high and contributes substantially to farming income through the use of agricultural output and waste.
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The first global guidelines for aquaculture certification have been adopted by the Sub-Committee on Aquaculture of the Committee on Fisheries, part of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. Over 50 countries attended the meeting of the sub-committee, which is the only global intergovernmental forum discussing aquaculture development.
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October 1rst, the mayor of Lelystad, Mrs Horselenberg, officially opened 2 new facilities for nutrition research, a dairy and Veranda layer facility. This opening marks the completion of the first phase of an ambitious investment program in research facilities totaling 9 million euro’s. The facilities are meeting all requirements for accurate and applied feed evaluation studies.
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The Leicestershire-based Allerton Project seeks to enhance biodiversity in commercial farming.
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A 2005-06-build John Deere 8130 MFWD tractor offered by Western Australian dealer Waltons at its Carnamah branch gets the tick as this week's top buy.
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Ten children from various EU Member States will receive awards tomorrow for having their drawings selected in a drawing competition, organised earlier this year by the European Commission to raise awareness about animal welfare and to promote the humane treatment of animals. The ceremony is part of a two-day event - the first International Conference on Animal Welfare Education- which starts today in Brussels and is co-organised by the Commission and the Belgian Presidency of the EU.
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Following a call for applications launched in December 2009, the Commission has now appointed the members of the expert group for technical advice on organic production and drawn up the relevant pool list.
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The early crop harvest kept farmers in the fields instead of at last week’s Farm Science Review, as attendance at this year’s Farm Science Review was 124,122, compared to last year’s crowd of 138,014.
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Speech by Gerda Verburg, Minister of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality, on the occasion of the opening of the World Dairy Forum, 24 September 2010.
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The 2009 financial report presented by the Commission today shows that 97% of appropriations were spent, a similar percentage as in 2008 (98%). Overall expenditure amounted to over €112 billion. The bulk of this sum went to measures to boost economic growth, employment and research and development, as well as on agriculture.
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The European Commission has adopted a draft decision on further liberalisation bilateral trade in agricultural products between the EU and Norway.
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The world’s top event for animal production, EuroTier 2010, is being held at the Exhibition Grounds in Hanover from 16 to 19 November 2010. The organiser, DLG (Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft – German Agricultural Society) reports excellent stand booking figures. Over 1,800 exhibitors from altogether 48 countries, including the leading manufacturers in the industry, will be presenting a full-scale programme and many innovations. EuroTier thus impressively underscores its position as the world’s top event for animal production.
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A young farmer from Sweden is the winner of the European Young Farmer Photo Award organised by CEJA, The European Council of Young Farmers in collaboration with the Future of Rural Energy in Europe (FREE) initiative. The official award ceremony took place on 20th September at the European Congress of Young Farmers in Belgium. The winning photo and other interesting photo entries are exhibited at DG Agriculture as of 28 September 2010.
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A report presented today by Health and Consumer Policy Commissioner John Dalli to the Agriculture Council concludes that specific measures relating to storing and the application of isolation distances can help limit or avoid the co-mingling of genetically modified (GM) maize with conventional and organic maize. In particular, the Best Practice Document, prepared by the European Coexistence Bureau (ECoB) and published by the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC), notes that storing seeds adequately and applying spatial isolation are the best ways to limit or avoid co-mingling. Alternative practices based on temporal isolation (shifting flowering times of GM and non-GM fields) are possible in several EU countries with specific climatic conditions.
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In September of each year, the European Commission draws up a financial report on the administration of the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (EAGF) and of the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) during the previous financial year and submits it to the European Parliament and the Council.
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The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on Monday 27 September (starting at 10 a.m.). It will be chaired by of Mrs Sabine Laruelle, Belgian minister for SMEs, the Self-Employment, Agriculture and Science Policy, for the Agriculture and Health issues and Mr Kris Peeters, Minister-President for the Flemish Region and responsible for Fisheries, for the points on Fisheries. Commissioners Maria Damanaki, John Dalli and Dacian Cioloş will represent the Commission at the meeting.
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The European Commission's own research body, the Joint Research Centre, publishes today, for the first time, an indicator-based map of potential threats to soil biodiversity, in order to guide decision-makers in protecting this crucial resource.
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CEJA President Joris Baecke gave a speech to EU Agriculture Ministers and the EU Agriculture Commissioner at yesterdays Informal Farm Council in La Hulpe, Belgium.
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Wednesday 22 September 2010
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The Management Committee for Direct Payments backed unanimously Commission proposals to allow 10 Member States to pay to farmers up to 50% of direct payments for 2010 from 16 October onwards instead of from 1 December 2010.
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LLN (Belgium), 21st of september 2010
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CEJA, The European Council of Young Farmers, hosted EU Agriculture Commissioner Dacian Ciolos, Valeriu Tabără new Romanian Agriculture Minister and Belgian Federal Minister Sabine Laurelle amongst others at the European Congress of Young Farmers held in Louvain La Neuve during 19-21 September. Experts from EU institutions, academics and sectoral analysts presented a range of statistical data and views which focused on the installation and renewal of young generations in the agri sector.
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Copa-Cogeca urged EU Farm Ministers today to ensure there is a competitive EU agri-food sector and a strong CAP after 2013, to prevent a complete collapse of the market.
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The European Commission has launched a call for proposal for information measures related to the Common Agricultural Policy.
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INTERPOM | PRIMEURS, the international trade fair for the potato, fruit and vegetable sector, will be held in Kortrijk Xpo, Belgium, on 28, 29 and 30 November 2010. The event is famous as the most complete information and contact platform for the whole sector, from growers right through to processors. There are still 3 months to go before the event opens but registrations have already smashed the last record of 200 exhibitors on 26 500m INTERPOM| PRIMEURS 2010 the top European event of the year, with a complete, top quality range of exhibitors and exhibits covering all aspects of the business for growers, contractors, processors, packers, buyers and traders of potatoes, fruit and vegetables.
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The Foreign Affairs Council on Thursday authorised the signature of the EU-Korea Free Trade Agreement which is a key step towards the provisional application of the deal on 1 July 2011. This agreement is the most ambitious trade agreement ever negotiated by the EU. It breaks new ground in delivering market access for European companies as well as in the way regulatory issues are addressed. The European Commission expects it to double European Union trade with Korea in medium term and to hence boost jobs and growth. The FTA is the EU's first deal with an Asian partner. It is a signal that the EU is open for business.
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The European Commission today adopted an amended proposal to improve the current food distribution programme for the most deprived persons in the European Union. It builds on a 2008 proposal allowing the scheme to use market purchases on a permanent basis, to complement available intervention stocks.
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Copa-Cogeca welcomed today EU Commissioner Mr Tajani strong support for the EU agri-food sector, and urged him to ensure a better functioning EU food chain.
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The European Commission has today adopted a draft decision on a EU-Morocco bilateral trade agreement for agri-food and fisheries products. It now passes to the Council and the European Parliament for approval.
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Bayer CropScience intends to maintain its growth strategy with innovative crop protection agents, high-quality seed and enhanced plant traits. To this end, the company plans to further strengthen its portfolio in conventional crop protection and increase the proportion of new, high-margin products. In the area of seeds and traits, the regional business will be expanded and long-term growth will be generated with new crops.
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The European Commission, together with the Belgian Presidency, holds tomorrow (14 September) in Brussels (The Square, rue Mont des Arts) a conference on building a Knowledge based BioEconomy.
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Bayer CropScience intends to maintain its growth strategy with innovative crop protection agents, high-quality seed and enhanced plant traits. To this end, the company plans to further strengthen its portfolio in conventional crop protection and increase the proportion of new, high-margin products. In the area of seeds and traits, the regional business will be expanded and long-term growth will be generated with new crops.
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The ethical case against eating animal produce once seemed clear. But a new book is an abattoir for dodgy arguments
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Your Excellency Mr. Wolde Giorgis, Excellencies Mr. Jean Ping and Abera Deresa, Distinguished colleagues, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, it is a great honour and pleasure for me to be here with you today and to address the African conference on Agriculture, Food Security and Climate Change.
Minister Verburg
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A new agreement governing the wine trade between Australia and the European Union enters into force tomorrow (1 September 2010). This agreement replaces the one signed in 1994.
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Pioneer Hi-Bred Ukraine, a DuPont business, reaffirmed its commitment to Ukraine research by celebrating the official opening of its now fully operational multi-crop research center in Lyubartsi.
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Dairy nutrition company Volac saw operating profits fall by £1m to £5.7m in the year to the end of February 2010.
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Cargill today reported net earnings of $691 million in the fiscal 2010 fourth quarter ended May 31, compared with $327 million in the same period a year ago. Excluding earnings from its majority investment in The Mosaic Company, Cargill's fourth-quarter earnings rose 87 percent to $433 million.
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Claas has added two new model ranges to the Lexion combine line-up. While the only visual differences on the new 600 and 700 series combines are the new high-spec cab (shared with their Xerion tractor and Jaguar forager siblings) there are several key changes under the panels making them more productive, faster and more efficient, according to the German giant.
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Global meeting place for decentralized energy supply Marketplace for information on all aspects of bioenergy partnerships - 450 exhibitors from 14 countries - Advisory Center - Live demonstrations daily
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Scientists from VIB and Ghent University have developed a technology that may contribute to the increase of crop yields in agriculture.
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Bharatbook added a new report on "Agricultural Equipment Market in India 2010" which discusses the steps taken by government towards developing the agricultural sector with strong potential.
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The European Commission has launched a call for tenders in order to conclude framework contracts for the purchase of data and information on agricultural markets, freight and trade.
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Farmers’ organisations from developing countries are marching in and will go and demand there legitimate role on the world stage. We are witnessing an important moment in time, that might change the world drastically. Remember farmer delegates from developing countries and OECD countries gathering in Geneva at the eve of WTO negotiations in December 2008.
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A machine that can inject dry poultry litter and composted cattle manure below the soil surface in pastures and no-till fields is on order from a research coalition across five Chesapeake Bay states: Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania and New York. There are currently no machines on the market that can do this.
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The European Commission published today an evaluation study of the Common Plant Health Regime (CPHR) that will be the basis on which the regime will be reviewed.
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At six months prior to the opening of AG CONNECT Expo 2011, 81 percent of the exhibit space used for the 2010 trade show is already booked, and there are 23 percent more exhibiting companies than at the same point last year. This success has led show organizers to announce new opportunities for non-member companies to participate in what has been called the “next generation” agriculture show.
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Copa-Cogeca welcomed today EU approval of new national beekeeping programmes for 2010-2013, claiming they give EU beekeepers much needed support, helping to secure the production and quality of EU honey.
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The European Commission has approved funding for 210 new projects under the third call for the LIFE+ programme (2007-2013), the European fund for the environment. The projects are from across the EU and cover actions in the fields of nature conservation, environmental policy, and information and communication. Overall, they represent a total investment of €515 million, of which the EU will provide €249.8 million.
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Closing the Conference on the Public Debate on the CAP post-2013, EU Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Ciolos stated on July 20: "Strengthened by your points of view, your ideas and the analytical ability of my services, I will come forward in November with a Communication from the European Commission on the future of the CAP.
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The European Commission has launched a call for tenders for a study entitled "Support for farmers' cooperatives". The overall purpose of this study is to provide the background knowledge that will help farmers organise themselves in cooperatives, as a tool to consolidate their market orientation and so generate a solid market income.
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Maria Damanaki Member of the European Commission, responsible for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries
Presidium of the Parliamentary Committees on European Affairs, Infrastructure and Agriculture and Rural Development Warsaw, Poland, 22 July 2010
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Copa-Cogeca urged the EU Commission today to ensure there is a strong CAP in the future, to help farmers cope with increasingly costly EU regulations, price volatility and to strengthen their economic role in providing food and services to 500 million consumers.
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On Monday 19th July 2010 an awards ceremony to celebrate the winner of the widely contested European Organic Logo Competition was held in Place St Catherine, Brussels. The event marked the end of the successful project and the beginning of a new challenge – the pan-European promotional campaign for the new label which came into force on July 1st 2010 and is already visible on some organic products across the 27 EU Member States.
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A total of € 265.02 million of EU farm money unduly spent by Member States is claimed back as a result of a decision adopted today by the European Commission. This money returns to the EU budget because of non-compliance with EU rules or inadequate control procedures on agricultural expenditure. Member States are responsible for paying out and checking expenditure under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), and the Commission is required to ensure that Member States have made correct use of the funds.
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There is not an across-the-board answer to whether or not using fungicides on soybeans will pay. How well fungicides will pay off on soybeans depends on a lot of factors that can only be answered by an individual farmer and usually on a field to field basis.
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The area under organic agriculture has increased significantly over the last years and represents about 4.3% of the utilised agricultural area of the EU (in 2008), with particular high percentages in the Austria, Sweden, Estonia, the Czech Republic and Latvia. About 197,000 farms all over the EU are involved in organic farming.
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Roughly 600 delegates from all over the EU come to Brussels next Monday and Tuesday to discuss the future of the Common Agriculture policy after 2013. This Conference will seek to debate and draw some form of conclusions from the public debate on the post-2013 launched by the Commission in April, based on the four very fundamental questions of: "Why do we need a CAP? What do citizens expect from agriculture? Why reform the CAP? What tools do we need for the CAP of tomorrow?"
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The food and farming sector has been told it will have an essential role to play in lifting the UK out of the recession, a gathering of MPs and officials in Westminster has been told.
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The European Commission has launched a call for tenders for a study entitled "Use and efficiency of public support measures addressing organic farming".
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Unless you're a tractor buff, you may well not have heard of TYM. The South Korean maker's tractors have been quietly coming into the UK for more than a decade. But until recently these were sub-70hp models aimed at the groundscare market.
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The two global agriculture trade exhibitions - Agritechnica in Europe and AG CONNECT Expo in North America - have coordinated the timing of their show dates for 2011 and 2013 for the convenience of exhibitors and attendees with global business interests. Show organizers said this schedule allows those interested in global agriculture to attend both events in those years. The shows are held biennially.
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Copa-Cogeca urged Euro-MPs today to take action to prevent a new EU dairy crisis from emerging, warning the EU market is still fragile and the market price does not always cover farmers’ production cost must be maintained, to deal with increasing market volatility”.
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The European Commission has today presented a proposal for a directive on seasonal employment. The proposal aims at establishing a common procedure for entry and residence in the EU and defines the rights of seasonal workers from third-countries.
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In the wake of declining EU farm incomes, Copa-Cogeca welcomed today the Belgian Presidency’s intention to continue talks on the future of the CAP, and called on EU politicians to ensure that a strong CAP, with a sufficient EU budget, is kept. The coming months is a crucial time for EU farmers and their cooperatives.
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Maria Damanaki Member of the European Commission Responsible for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries
Plenary session of the European Parliament Strasbourg, 8 July 2010
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Eight EU-funded research projects on food quality and safety will be presented on 8 July at a conference at the European Parliament. This is part of Commissioner Geoghegan-Quinn's overall initiative to communicate better on the practical benefits EU research is bringing to the EU's Europe 2020 strategy in terms of improved quality of life and as a key driver of economic growth and high quality jobs. For example, one project, ISAFRUIT, has found that eating two apples (300gr) a day can help reduce cholesterol by 10% and that dipping apples and peaches in hot water at precise temperatures can reduce brown rot by 80% and remove e-coli and salmonella bacteria.
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Air induction nozzles can reduce drift 75% to 90%, but drift can still occur when farmers are spraying herbicides, insecticides and fungicides. Farmers who were early adopters bought air induction nozzles and used them for everything, both contact and systemic herbicides. Problems started to emerge in reduced performance of some contact herbicides that had been sprayed using air induction nozzles. Causes for this reduced product efficacy were not readily apparent.
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The European Commission has launched a call for tenders for a project entitled "Modelling the on-farm component of feed consumption in the European Union" (FeedMod2).
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The European Commission has approved 19 programmes in 14 Member States (Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, France, Greece, Italy, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland, Slovenia, Spain and the United Kingdom) to provide information on and to promote agricultural products in the European Union.
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New EU rules on organic food labelling including the requirement to display the new EU organic logo, enter into force on 1 July, 2010. The so-called “Euro-Leaf” will now be obligatory on pre-packaged organic food products that have been produced in any of EU Member States and meet the necessary standards. Other private, regional or national logos will continue to appear alongside the EU label. The logo stays optional for non-packed and imported organic products.
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Agriculture is largely but not fully regionalized in Belgium, allowing Flanders to provide for policies that are targeted at the specific needs of the Flemish agricultural sector.
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The European Commission has launched a call for tenders for an ex-post evaluation of the 2000-2006 Rural Development Programmes (RDPs) financed through the EAGGF (European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund).
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Two thirds of Scottish farms targeted in a Health and Safety Executive campaign were not using all terrain vehicles safely, figures have revealed.
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The Agriculture and Fisheries Council will meet in Luxembourg on Tuesday 29 June, under the presidency of Mrs Elena Espinosa, Spanish Minister of the Rural, Marine & Natural Environment. Maritime Affairs & Fisheries Commissioner Maria Damanaki, Agriculture & Rural Development Commissioner Dacian Cioloş and Health & Consumer Policy Commissioner John Dalli will represent the Commission at the meeting. Over lunch, ministers will discuss the reform of the common organisation of the markets in fishery and aquaculture products.
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Efforts to conserve the natural environment and protect biodiversity in the EU received a boost, last Friday, after the Member States endorsed a Commission proposal providing for the placing on the market of certain types of wild plant seeds from conserved habitats.
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In a first meeting today with the new EU Trade Commissioner, Karel De Gucht, Copa and Cogeca Presidents voiced serious concerns about the Commission’s current trade policy.
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EFSA has published a scientific opinion on Tilletia indica, a fungus that causes a disease in wheat called Karnal bunt. The Plant Health Panel (PLH) concludes that T. indica can enter the European Union through imported wheat grain.
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Legislative improvements are needed to control the traffic in illegal pesticides and their use across Europe. Illegal pesticide use endangers the environment, consumer health and can ruin the food supply reputation of an agricultural region.
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The 7th Agriflanders agricultural fair will be held on 13th, 14th, 15th and 16th January 2011 in Flanders Expo, Gent.
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Copa-Cogeca regretted today that the EU Commission withdrew the draft proposal to introduce rules for the production of organic wine, and called on the Commission and Member States to work together to define EU rules for organic wine production.
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The global economic and financial crisis that emerged in 2008 had a dramatic impact on world trade in goods and services. Although world agricultural trade was relatively less affected, it still fell by 13% in value and 3% in volume in 2009.
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The High Level Group on Milk, set up last October in the wake of last year's dairy crisis, has finalised the report on its deliberations, including recommendations to the Commission on seven issues. These include an invitation to come forward with concrete moves to enhance the use of written contracts in the dairy supply chain and to consider proposals to increase the collective bargaining power of dairy producers.
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The € 1 billion EU Food Facility provides for funding to improve access to agricultural inputs; sustain safety-net programmes to the most vulnerable population and support microcredit, investment, equipment, infrastructure and training.
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On the 3 June 2010 the Enlarged Advisory Group on the CAP post 2013 took place in the Borschette Centre with the participation of organizations representing various sectors of the civil society.
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THE CRT FarmFest field days put worries about last year’s Federal Government investment grant initiative behind it, championing new technology as the way ahead.
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Deere & Company has officially opened its new manufacturing and parts distribution facility south of Moscow in Domodedovo.
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Seabirds often lead fishermen to productive fishing grounds; in return, they can often take advantage of the fishermen's operations to get an easy meal. A happy arrangement for all concerned, you might think. Not so, however – for the birds can become caught in fishing gear and will frequently die as a result.
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A new way to make topographic maps with radar can help farmers divert more of their resources to the highest-yielding parts of their fields, according to an Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientist.
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Ministers will join farm leaders in central London next week to celebrate 10 years of the Red Tractor logo - the industry-backed assurance scheme which promotes British food and drink.
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At midnight tonight, the Commission will close the internet-based public debate on the future of the EU's Common Agriculture Policy launched by Agriculture & Rural Development Commissioner Dacian Ciolos on April 12.
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On 4th June, the European Commission’s Advisory Group on fruit and vegetables adopted a joint resolution calling on the EU Commissioner for Agriculture, Dacian Cioloş, to take appropriate action to move the fruit and vegetable sector forward in the current difficult situation. The resolution calls for strong EU-based production and industry, a strong EU trade sector and greater efficiency and transparency within the fruit and vegetable supply chain with the aim of increasing fruit and vegetable consumption in the EU-27.
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The European Commission has launched a call for tenders for a retrospective evaluation of the exceptional market support measures in the poultry and eggs sector, which were adopted in 2006 following the Avian Flu outbreaks.
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Twelve top scientists will meet in Paris today to prepare a European–level work programme to coordinate nationally funded research aimed at securing a safe and sustainable food supply. This is the first meeting of the Scientific Advisory Board for the EU Joint Programming Initiative (JPI) on Agriculture, Food Security and Climate Change. This initiative involves twenty European countries overall and is jointly led by France, through its National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA) and the UK, through the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC).
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The public debate on the future of the EU's Common Agriculture Policy has been extended by 1 week (until June 11) because of many requests to do so, and the large number of contributions being posted on the website every day. Launched by Agriculture & Rural Development Commissioner Dacian Ciolos on April 12, well over 3 700 responses have now been received.
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AgroFarm, the international exhibition for animal husbandry and breeding, is continuing its very dynamic development. This was the conclusion drawn by the organisers, DLG International GmbH, a subsidiary of the DLG (Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft – German Agricultural Society), and the Agricultural Sector of AREC (Moscow). From 26 to 28 May 2010 altogether 222 exhibitors from 19 countries came together at the VVC exhibition grounds in Moscow to present modern genetics for breeding, as well as animal housing construction systems and modern production methods for cattle, pig, poultry, goat and sheep husbandry and rabbit keeping.
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"This afternoon we will celebrate our heroes. The high potential farmers, people who have come with plans that generate local enthusiasm and energy. These individual initiatives are what is required to create market chains and make optimum use of the marketing opportunities in a country. Which, in turn leads to a stronger farming sector, less poverty, less hunger, more entrepreneurship, more social infrastructure, better education and other developments. Our stakes are high. It is therefore not important whether you will get the award this afternoon. Smart entrepreneurs know they have already won."
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Manufacturer and supplier of agricultural machines and agriculture equipments that includes Mounted Offset Disc Harrow, Trailed Offset Disc Harrow, spring loaded tiller, disc plough, rotary tiller and their spare parts from India.
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Today's Management Committee meeting saw the sale of the first volumes of dairy intervention stocks back on to the EU market. These were amounts bought up by the Commission in the course of last year's dairy crisis in order to support market prices.
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Dacian Cioloș Member of the European Commission Responsible for Agriculture and Rural Development
(summary of the speech)
Informal Council of AGRI Ministers Merida, 1 June 2010
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Copa-Cogeca urged EU politicians today to re-focus the CAP and strengthen the economic role of EU farmers in producing food, so that they can play their crucial part in contributing to the EUs’ 2020 strategy, maintaining over 28 million jobs in EU rural areas.
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Today sees the opening in Brussels of Europe's largest annual conference on environment. This year's event, coinciding with the International Year of Biodiversity, will concentrate on the immense variety of species and ecosystems that make up the extraordinary web of life on our planet. Green Week 2010 will address the current state of biodiversity and nature, offering potential solutions to the current alarming rates of loss in some 30 sessions.
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Today, the European Crop Protection Association (ECPA) called upon representatives from the food chain and policy community to form a European partnership to map ways to ensure the future of European specialty crops. The key mission of the initiative is to ensure that these food crops get the protection they deserve and are not left as “orphans” by the regulatory process: the reality of market return versus the high cost of investment does not hold a bright future for them.
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The European Commission has launched a call for tenders for a retrospective evaluation of promotion and information actions for agricultural products.
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From 15 to 17 June 2010, the Bockerode Estate in Springe-Mittelrode near Hanover will be hosting the DLG Field Days, bringing them back to Lower Saxony in Germany again for the second time since 1992. This unique forward-looking forum for modern plant production, held every two years since 1988, is organised by the DLG (Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft – German Agricultural Society).
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AgroFarm, the international exhibition for animal husbandry and breeding, is being held in Moscow for the fourth time from 26 to 28 May 2010. With over 200 exhibitors from 19 countries, the organisers DLG International, a subsidiary of the DLG (Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft – German Agricultural Society), and Agricultural Sector of AREC (Moscow) report excellent stand booking results.
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U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has announced that the USDA had completed new food safety standards for ground beef purchased by the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) for federal food and nutrition assistance programs including school lunches.
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The European Commission today published a report on the progress of Member States in addressing water scarcity and droughts. Despite more rainfall in southern European countries in 2009 than in previous years, greater efforts are still needed to stop and reverse the over-exploitation of Europe's limited water resources.
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently published a guidance document entitled “Guidance for Industry: Use of Water by Food Manufacturers in Areas Subject to a Boil-Water Advisory.”
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Sampco Inc., Chicago, Ill., is recalling approximately 87,000 lbs of beef products that may contain the animal drug Ivermectin, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA FSIS) announced May 14. Ivermectin is a broad-spectrum antiparasitic and is used as a de-worming agent in live animals.
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Montclair Meat Co. Inc., Montclair, Calif., is recalling approximately 53,000 lbs of ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA FSIS) announced May 15.
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"We are facing one of the biggest challenges ever: feeding 9 billion people in 2050. With also the challenge to sustainable use of our natural resources."
Statement by ms Gerda Verburg, minister of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality and chairperson of the 17th session of the un Commission on Sustainable Development at the opening of the high level segment of the 18th session of the Commission on Sustainable Development, 12 may 2010, New York
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Copa-Cogeca welcomed today EU Farm Ministers talks on the International competitiveness of the European agri-food model, stressing the model must be promoted better both domestically and internationally, in a bid to raise consumers’ awareness of the EU’s high quality goods and production standards.
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Copa-Cogeca backed today the EU Member States who have opposed the re-opening of trade talks with Mercosur, the Latin American trading group, warning the move will severely undermine the EU’s high standards.
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According to The Japan Times, Japan pork exports to Hong Kong have resumed after being suspended due to the discovery last month of foot-and-mouth disease in pigs and cows in Miyazaki Prefecture, the agriculture ministry said.
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The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on Monday 17 May (starting at 11 a.m.), under the Presidency of Mrs Elena Espinosa, Spanish Minister for Agriculture. Commissioner Dacian Cioloş will represent the Commission at the meeting, apart from one AOB point on forest protection for Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik.
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The European Commission has launched a call for tenders for a study on "Addressing Biodiversity and Habitat Preservation through Measures applied under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP)". The objective of this study is to identify and assess CAP measures concerning their contribution to the preservation of biodiversity and habitats.
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A former Bulgarian deputy agriculture minister has ardently defended his daughter over allegations of EU funds embezzlement worth thousands of euros.
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Between 2000 and 2009, employment in the agricultural sector in the EU27 decreased by 25%, the equivalent of 3.7 million full-time jobs1. It fell by 17% in the EU152 and by 31% in the 12 Member States (NMS122) that joined the EU in 2004 and 2007. In 2009, employment in the agricultural sector was equivalent to 11.2 million full-time jobs in the EU27, of which 5.4 million were in the EU15 and 5.8 million in the NMS12.
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A majority of Americans believe nutrition in local school meals falls far short of what children need, a new survey finds. And the foods people most associate with school meals—pizza, chicken nuggets, and hamburgers—are the same foods they believe should be cut drastically from school menus.
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Organic farms may be seen as wildlife friendly, but the benefits to birds, bees and butterflies don’t compensate for the lower yields produced, according to new research from the University of Leeds.
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EU Farm Leaders unanimously opposed re-starting the trade liberalising talks with Mercosur, the Latin American trading group, today, warning it would have a devastating impact on the EU agriculture and agri-food sector.
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Commissioner Máire Geoghegan-Quinn will today at the European Parliament (18h15) launch a Soil Atlas of the world's northernmost regions, where more than half the carbon present in the Earth's soils is stored. She will simultaneously inaugurate an exhibition on the work of the Commission's Joint Research Centre, which produced the Atlas. It covers regions above the latitude of 50° N, which represent 16% of global land surface.
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Under EU rules on transparency, EU Member State Ministries of Agriculture have to publish detailed figures on recipients of Common Agriculture Policy funding in 2009, by midnight tonight (April 30).
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The European Commission today decided on the definitive allocation of EU aid for the School Fruit Scheme (SFS) for the 2010/2011 school year. 25 of the 27 Member States have opted to participate in the second year of the scheme.
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Minister Verburg - Londen - Seminar Future of foods
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Speech by the Netherland’s Minister of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality, Ms. Gerda Verburg, at the Conference 'The Future of the Common Agricultural Policy', Copenhagen, April 26, 2010.
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In a bid to promote the importance of women farmers in the EU, Copa presented its position paper on their role today at a seminar held in Caceres.
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According to The Japan Times, the government has imposed a temporary suspension on beef exports after revelations of possible foot-and-mouth disease in some cows in Miyazaki Prefecture.
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"Sustainable agriculture is at the root of a better world. Sustainable forms of agriculture can prevent us from turning into the ultimate consumption society, as people elsewhere sink into the depths of poverty and hunger. Sustainable agriculture can prevent further declines in biodiversity."
Speech by Ms. Verburg, Minister of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality, at the VIV Europe, april 20th 2010, Utrecht.
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The European Commission authorised a Bulgarian scheme with a budget of BGN 20 million (approximately € 10,26 million) which aims at supporting agricultural holdings active in the primary production, marketing and processing of agricultural products who encounter difficulties as a result of the current economic crisis.
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On April 13, 2010, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published guidance for small egg producers to help them comply with a new federal egg safety regulation.
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The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Luxembourg on Monday 19 April (starting at 10.30 a.m.), under the Presidency of Mrs Elena Espinosa, Spanish Minister of the Rural, Marine and Natural Environment. Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Commissioner Maria Damanaki will represent the Commission at the meeting. The only formal point on the agenda is a discussion of the upcoming reform of the Common Fisheries Policy.
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According to the Des Moines Register, federal regulators are proposing new meat testing requirements that small processors say would impose staggering new costs and force businesses to drop products or go out of business.
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The European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Ciolos, today launched a public debate on the future of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) in the European Union. Since its creation, the CAP has always been adapted to respond to the challenges of its time. Significant reforms have been made in recent years, notably in 2003 and during the CAP health check in 2008, to modernise the sector and make it more market-oriented.
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According to The Japan Times, Japan intends to continue talks with the United States on the beef trade, even though restrictions on U.S. beef imports were likely to stay in place, farm minister Hirotaka Akamatsu said April 2.
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Over 150 participants have registered to attend the 54th Annual IFAJ Congress which takes place in Ostend on the Belgian coast. Jef Verhaeren, president of the Congress, explains: “Before the main congress starts on 17 April there is an optional pre-congress tour to the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and Wallonia, and afterwards, a post-congress tour takes delegates to Ypres and Brussels.”
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Today, the European Commission adopted two new EU policy frameworks to help developing countries address the issue of food security, both in emergency and long-term situation. The objectives are to ensure progress toward achieving Millennium Development Goal related to the elimination of poverty and hunger (MDG 1), and to maximise the effectiveness of humanitarian support in crises where food insecurity threatens lives.
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The European Commission has launched a call for tenders for a retrospective evaluation of Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) measures applied to the dairy sector. The aim of this evaluation is to assess the effectiveness, efficiency, relevance and coherence of the measures applied to the dairy sector under the Common Agricultural Policy since the CAP reform adopted in 2003. The focus of the evaluation is on market measures and coupled direct payments, as modified by the 2003 CAP reform.
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European citizens broadly support the new aims of agricultural policy as conducted at European Union level and a majority are in favour of maintaining its budget. This is one of the main findings of a survey of people's attitudes to the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
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A New York State dairy farmer cited by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for selling cows that had illegal residues of antibiotics was ordered by the U.S. District Court for the Western District of New York this week to stop offering the animals for slaughter until he complies with federal law.
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Copa-Cogeca called on the EU Commission today to urgently open private storage for olive oil, warning that the sector is in crisis.
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) has announced that it is seeking comment on proposed measures to enhance food safety. The proposed rule would implement a provision of the 2008 Farm Bill and is a priority for the Food Safety Working Group (FSWG).
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More than 400 delegates from all parts of the dairy supply chain plus political and administrative stakeholders will attend a Conference in Brussels tomorrow to discuss the prospects for the dairy sector against the background of recent extreme price volatility and a future milk production without quotas..
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The European Commission has launched a call for tenders for an evaluation of Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) measures applied to the sheep and goat sector. The objective of this evaluation is to analyse the economic aspects of the sector since the introduction of the 2003 CAP Reform.
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BioFach Nürnberg with its daughters in Boston, São Paulo, Shanghai, Tokyo and Mumbai again attracted some 4,000 exhibitors and over 100,000 trade visitors from production, processing, trade and services in 2009. The markets in Brazil, China and India are strong raw material markets, whereas the USA and Japan are marked by a high demand for organic products. The international organic market has successfully defied the crisis and is even showing slight growth according to experts. The sector enters 2010 with self-assurance and confidence, for sustainable consumption is one of the key future trends.
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The “Azalea of Ghent” certainly shouldn’t be lacking at the Floralies of Ghent. The showpiece of the Ghent flower region will be displayed in the most fashionable way during the coming Floralies.
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According to Reuters, the U.S. government would launch an all-out ban on selling junk food at school under a key Senate chairman’s proposal on March 17, but funding for school lunch and child nutrition programs would grow by only half as much as the White House proposed.
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The European Union and Argentina have today signed in Buenos Aires a final settlement of the WTO dispute that Argentina brought against the EU in May 2003 regarding the application of its legislation on biotech products. The mutually agreed solution provides for the establishment of a regular dialogue on issues of mutual interest on biotechnology applied to agriculture. The EU and Argentina will notify this settlement to the WTO Dispute Settlement Body as a mutually agreed solution. A settlement of the WTO dispute that Canada brought against the EU regarding the same issue was already reached on 15 July 2009.
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The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), as the first EU institution, rose to the challenge of providing a comprehensive vision for the future of the Common Agriculture Policy (CAP), in advance of the European Commission's papers on the matter, due to be issued later this year and in 2011. The EESC's opinion on this divisive and highly controversial issue was adopted with near-unanimity, a move that EESC Vice-President Seppo Kallio called "historical".
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According to The Washington Post, in the middle of a nationwide outbreak of Salmonella illness linked to black and red pepper—and after 16 U.S. recalls since 2001 of tainted spices—federal regulators met last week with the spice industry to figure out ways to make the supply safer.
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More than 1700 exhibitors and in excess of 130,000 visitors are expected to attend this year's EuroTier 2010. Held at the Hanover Exhibition Centre, in Germany, the international flavour of the show is best highlighted by the number of overseas visitors, some of which are expected to come from Vietnam
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The aim of this study is to analyse the actual contribution of renewable energy produced on-farm to the overall EU targets on renewable energy and greenhouse gas emissions reduction, as well as its potential in the medium-term.
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Today, the Commission adopted a €190 million support package for banana exporters from African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) states. This proposal was part of the historic Geneva Agreement on Trade in Bananas. The EU concluded this deal with Latin American countries and the US in December 2009 which settles 15 years banana disputes. It also cuts the tariff which the EU applies to bananas imported from Latin American countries.
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Managing Director Sten Andersen, Dan Egtved A/S, is now the new Chairman of the Agromek Exhibition Committee.
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The largest exhibition of agricultural machinery in Northern Europe, Agromek, will, in the future, be held every other year. This will be the major, impressive exhibition which Agromek has been renowned for on the domestic and international markets during the past 30 years.
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A total of € 346.5 million of EU farm money unduly spent by Member States is claimed back as a result of a conformity clearance procedure decision adopted by the European Commission. The money returns to the EU budget because of non-compliance with EU rules or inadequate control procedures on agricultural expenditure. Member States are responsible for paying out and checking expenditure under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), and the Commission is required to ensure that Member States have made correct use of the funds.
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On behalf of the Belgian Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain and its Scientific Committee, we are pleased to invite you to the International Symposium on Nanotechnology in the Food Chain, to be held in Brussels, Belgium on the 24th of November 2010. This Symposium is organized in the framework of the Belgian Presidency of the EU Council.
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The Estrella Family Creamery of Montesano, Wash., has recalled a production of Old Apple Tree Tomme cheese. The company says the cheese may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is taking steps to protect the public following the early identification of Salmonella Tennessee in Basic Food Flavors Inc.’s, Las Vegas, Nev., supply of hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP).
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According to HealthDay News, a study presented March 3 at the American Heart Association's Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Metabolism Conference 2010 in San Francisco, Calif., shows that a DNA test may be able to reveal an individual’s most effective diet plan.
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is taking steps to protect the public following the early identification of Salmonella Tennessee in Basic Food Flavors Inc.’s, Las Vegas, Nev., supply of hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP). This is a common ingredient used most frequently as a flavor enhancer in many processed foods, including soups, sauces, chilis, stews, hot dogs, gravies, seasoned snack foods, dips, and dressings.
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The objective of the Scenar 2020-II study is to look at major future trends and driving factors for the future of European agriculture and the rural world, and the perspectives and challenges resulting from them. It seeks to refine and improve the findings of the initial Scenar 2020 study (December 2006).
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The European Commission has authorised today a Slovak scheme with a budget of approximately €3.32 million which aims at supporting farmers in Slovakia who encounter difficulties as a result of the current economic crisis.
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U.S. exports of agricultural-related machinery totaled nearly $8 billion in 2009, a 23-percent drop compared to the previous year, with the largest declines in business to Europe and South America, according to the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM). The AEM trade group consolidates U.S. Commerce Department data for off-road equipment with other sources into quarterly export trend reports.
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300 exhibitors book stands already – Global forum for decentral energy supply – In Hanover from 16 to 19 November 2010
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On Feb. 23, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack spoke at a National Press Club Luncheon to highlight the Obama Administration’s priorities for the reauthorization of the Child Nutrition Act and to advocate for the rapid passage of a strong reauthorization bill to reduce hunger and improve the health and nutrition of our nation's children.
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are working together to achieve the goals of enhancing the safety and quality of fresh produce in ways that take into account the wide diversity of farming operations.
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Fish farming can help to meet growing demand for fish products without harming the environment, but to succeed, it has to guarantee quality and also win political support, MEPs and guest speakers agreed at a public hearing on Tuesday. Fish farmers need political determination, clear rules, a level playing field, and a trustworthy labelling system, urged their representatives.
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In the 2009 business year Amazone, with its involvement in both agricultural and municipal technology, achieved a turnover of 290 mio €. Certainly, in comparison to 2008 when the family owned company achieved a turnover of 380 mio €, this is a reduction of round about 23 %, but it still exceeds the av-erage of the past five years. "After the exceptional year of 2008 we have still achieved - as in 2007 - the second highest turnover in the company's history and in spite of the clearly noticeable affects caused by the financial and eco-nomic crisis," is the verdict of the Amazone directors, Christian Dreyer and Dr. Justus Dreyer with regard to the actual situation. 75 % of the turnover in 2009 went for export which was still considerably above the sector average and 80 % of the total turnover was achieved in Western Europe incl. Germany. 16 % of the total sales were made in Eastern Europe and 4 % in the rest of the world.
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA FSIS), continue to work closely with the Rhode Island Department of Health and other states in the investigation of an outbreak of Salmonella Montevideo infections associated with certain Italian-style sausage products including salami/salame.
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Four young Europeans proved their excellent knowledge on balanced diet and healthy lifestyle by answering successfully all questions of the on-line Treasure Hunt game, in the framework of the EU Healthy Eating Campaign, "The Tasty Bunch". The best Treasure Hunters Lara García de Veas Piñeiro (1 st Winner), Seamus Hickey (2 nd ), Francesca Martini and Silvia Vicari (3 rd ) will be awarded prizes involving sports and good cooking habits in four ceremonies held in Spain, Ireland and Italy.
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The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on Monday 22 February (starting at 11 a.m.), under the Presidency of Mrs Elena Espinosa, Spanish minister for Agriculture. Commissioners John Dalli and Dacian Ciolo ş will represent the Commission at the meeting.
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced details of the final regulation regarding access to pasture for organic livestock operations. This rule amends the National Organic Program (NOP) regulations to clarify the use of pasture in raising organic ruminants.
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DLG expects some 1,700 exhibitors from all over the globe – Over 150 first-time exhibitors already – In Hanover from 16 to 19 November 2010
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The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), is working closely with the Rhode Island Department of Health and other states in the investigation of an outbreak of Salmonella Montevideo infection associated with certain salami products.
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West Missouri Beef, LLC, Rockville, Mo., is recalling approximately 14,000 lbs of fresh boneless beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) announced Feb. 2.
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The European Commission today officially announced the winner of the EU organic logo competition. Over the past two months, some 130,000 people have voted online to choose the new organic symbol from three finalists.
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Daniele International Inc., an establishment with operations in Pascoag and Mapleville, R.I., is expanding its January 23 recall to include approximately 17,235 lbs of ready-to-eat (RTE) varieties of Italian sausage products, including salami/salame, that may be contaminated with Salmonella, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced Jan. 31.
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Norwegian and EU negotiators initialled agreed minutes concluding negotiations that have been ongoing for the last three years with a view to further liberalising bilateral trade in agricultural products. The draft accord is subject to the approval of the respective authorities. This is part of the regular process of progressive trade liberalisation in agriculture foreseen by the EEA Agreement. It will allow the EU exporters to reinforce their position on the Norwegian market. The additional liberalisation represents roughly 20% of the current value of EU exports to Norway; when taking into account already existing bilateral preferences, around 60% of EU exports to Norway will be completely freed (in term of trade value).
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The Rhode Island Department of Health announced Jan. 28 that ground black pepper samples from an open container at Daniele Inc. has tested positive for Salmonella. Further lab testing also shows that the ground pepper contains the same strain of Salmonella that is associated with a U.S. outbreak.
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The Rural Development Committee has voted on the last proposals from Member States/regions for using EU Recovery Plan and CAP Health Check funding and other transfers within the CAP to address issues including the economic and dairy crisis, and climate change. In the period October 2009 – January 2010, all rural development programmes were modified and the additional funding of about €5 billion is now ready to be invested in agriculture, the environment and broadband in rural areas.
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Bayer CropScience is adding the biofungicide Shemer to its portfolio of classic crop protection products. The company has now completed the acquisition of certain assets and technologies relating to biological development products of AgroGreen in Ashdod, Israel. This move follows the acquisition by Bayer CropScience in March last year of AgroGreen products which will be marketed under the brand names BioNem and Votivo® (containing the active ingredient Bacillus firmus).
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President Obama has announced his intent to nominate Elisabeth Hagen as the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Under Secretary for Food Safety.
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The European Commission will on Thursday submit to the Management Committee a draft Regulation allowing the export of an additional 500,000 tonnes of out-of-quota sugar in the 2009/2010 marketing year (to July 31st 2010). This temporary measure, which fully respects the EU's international obligations, has been made possible by the exceptional market conditions at both the EU and world level. The present market situation for sugar is very unlikely to occur again in the future.
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Copa-Cogeca warned today that EU farmers are increasingly becoming the victims of retailers price wars and urged EU politicians to take action.
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The Common Agricultural Policy plays a critical role in helping farmers to deliver environmental goods and services, provided that policies are targeted in the right way. This is the key message of a report published today for DG Agriculture and Rural Development by the Institute for European Environmental Policy. The report is a first ever attempt to identify the full range of environmental public goods provided by farmers across Europe and sets out the arguments for paying for their delivery via the public purse.
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Agricultural machinery manufacturers anticipate overall continued weakness in U.S. and Canadian tractor sales in 2010, according to the annual "outlook" survey of the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM).
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Just a few days remain for people to vote in the final stage of the EU organic logo competition.
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Huntington Meat Packing Inc., Montebello, Calif., is recalling approximately 864,000 lbs of beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7. The problem was discovered during a Food Safety Assessment (FSA) by U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) personnel.
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According to the Chicago Tribune, sugar prices are hovering at 29-year highs. Low U.S. sugar stocks and soaring global sugar prices appear to be the culprit, and consumers are feeling the effect as candy makers pass along their rising ingredient costs.
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The European Commission has approved 13 programmes in 11 Member States to promote milk and milk products in the European Union. The total budget of the programmes, running for a period of three years, is € 35.8 million of which the EU contributes € 17.9 million.
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Copa-Cogeca welcomed today the new EU Commissioner-designate Dacian Ciolos views on the future of the CAP, especially the need for a strong CAP which provides a fair income for farmers, and recognition that the cost of no support for the CAP would be far too high.
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The Agriculture & Fisheries Council will meet in Brussels on Monday 18 January (starting at 11 a.m.), under the Presidency of Mrs Elena Espinosa, Spanish minister for Agriculture. Commissioner Mariann Fischer Boel will represent the Commission at the meeting.
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A study published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry shows that rye grain’s reputation as a grain associated with high acrylamide risk may not be warranted.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is collaborating with public health officials in several states and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS) to investigate a multistate outbreak of human infections due to Escherichia coli O157:H7 (E. coli 0157:H7). As of 5:00 PM EDT, Jan. 4, 2010, 21 persons infected with the outbreak strain of E. coli O157:H7 had been reported from 16 states.
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National Steak and Poultry, Owasso, Okla., is recalling approximately 248,000 lbs of beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced Dec. 24.
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