Commissioner Christophe Hansen, in a written answer on 12 June 2026, outlined the European Commission's approach to boosting the EU's self-sufficiency in protein crops for animal feed, emphasising that the upcoming Protein Plan will cover the entire Union while allowing for national and regional adaptations. The answer, responding to a question from Greek MEP Galato Alexandraki (ECR), signals the Commission's intention to reduce the bloc's reliance on imported plant protein—currently equivalent to 19 million tonnes of crude protein—and to link protein production with fertiliser use reduction.
The answer confirms that the Protein Plan, first announced in the 2025 Vision for Agriculture and Food, will be EU-wide but will recognise regional specificities, including those of Mediterranean Member States like Greece. Hansen pointed to existing Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) instruments—such as coupled income support, eco-schemes, and rural development measures—that can already support protein crops. He also highlighted the Commission's legislative package for the CAP post-2027, which proposes a dedicated protein crop sector, mandatory sectoral interventions, and the possibility of marketing standards. The answer encourages Member States to integrate tailored measures into their National and Regional Partnership Plans.
On the question of linking the Protein Plan to the Fertiliser Action Plan, Hansen noted that protein crops fix nitrogen, reducing the need for synthetic fertilisers—a link acknowledged in the Fertiliser Action Plan adopted on 19 May 2026. The answer does not commit to specific Mediterranean-targeted incentives or coupled support for Greece, instead reiterating that existing CAP tools and the upcoming Protein Plan will address diverse territorial conditions. The Commission's response is largely declarative, outlining existing and proposed policy frameworks rather than announcing new numerical targets or deadlines. Institutional follow-up is expected as the Protein Plan is finalised and the CAP post-2027 legislative package progresses through the European Parliament and Council.
← Atlas › News › Agri-food