In a written answer to a parliamentary question on 30 July 2026, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, Mr Hansen, defended the EU's agri-food promotion policy as a key investment in competitiveness and consumer awareness, while signalling that the 2027 budget allocation could still be increased. Responding to MEP Anna Maria Cisint (PfE), who had criticised the Commission's proposal to halve promotion funding from EUR 205 million to EUR 112 million in the 2027 work programme, Hansen stressed that the final amount will only be confirmed in October 2026, after the adoption of the Amending Letter to the Draft EU Budget 2027. He said the Commission will continue to explore feasible options within the budgetary procedure, respecting the prerogatives of the budgetary authority.
The answer comes after Cisint's question, which accused the Commission of abandoning its own farm-to-fork objectives, including an ambitious information campaign on healthy diets and local products. Hansen did not directly address the proposed cut, but reiterated the Commission's broader policy goals as set out in its Vision for Agriculture and Food. He also recalled that under Regulation (EU) No 1144/2014, only EU-produced products are eligible for promotion support, meaning the policy already contributes to strengthening the position of Union producers and increasing awareness of EU products.
The response contains no concrete numerical commitments or new proposals, but leaves the door open for adjustments in the autumn budget procedure. The Commission's stance reflects a tension between budgetary constraints—resulting from the mid-term revision of the 2021–2027 Multiannual Financial Framework agreed by the European Council in February 2024—and the political desire to support the agri-food sector. Stakeholders, including EU farmers and food producers, face uncertainty over the level of future promotion support, while EU consumers may see reduced information campaigns if the cut is confirmed. The final decision now rests with the budgetary authority, with the Amending Letter expected in October 2026.