EU agriculture ministers on 27 April 2026 debated the post-2027 Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), revealing sharp divisions on mandatory income support capping, digressivity, and the role of peat in horticulture and forestry. A majority of member states, including Czechia, Italy, Poland, and Romania, pushed back against the European Commission's proposal for mandatory capping and digressive payments, arguing they would harm large farms and undermine food security. Commissioner Christophe Hansen defended the EU guardrails—including a €130–240 payment range—citing MFF pressure and the need for simplification. On pension-age phase-out, many delegations rejected mandatory exclusion, preferring incentives for young farmers. France opposed income-based targeting, advocating a general safety net. On peat, Latvia and Finland framed it as a strategic resource, while Germany and Ireland called for a transition to alternatives. Consensus emerged on protecting food security, supporting generational renewal, and further work on farmer definitions. Next steps include technical discussions under the Cyprus Presidency.
The debate highlights a cleavage between member states prioritizing national flexibility and those supporting stronger EU-level harmonization. Large farms face potential revenue losses if capping is enforced, while young farmers could benefit from targeted incentives. Peat-dependent sectors in the Baltics and Finland face transition costs, while environmental groups push for alternatives.