EU agriculture ministers broadly endorsed the first-ever EU Livestock Strategy and Protein Action Plan during the Agriculture and Fisheries Council on 13 July 2026, but diverged on financing for mandatory cage-free systems and the scope of the crisis reserve.
Irish Minister Martin Heydon, chairing the Council, highlighted the Irish Presidency's priorities of competitiveness, security, and values, with a focus on food security, farmer incomes, and generational renewal. Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Christophe Hansen presented the strategy, which aims to reduce external dependency and improve economic viability. A key discussion centered on advancing women in agriculture, linked to the International Year of the Woman Farmer, with Heydon noting underrepresentation in leadership. On geographical indications (GIs), ministers stressed the need for better protection in trade agreements and easier access to GI registration; Hansen cited threefold added value for GI products and plans for a GI action plan.
The Council formally adopted Commission proposals on CAP flexibilities to address the fertilizer crisis, including a top-up of the agricultural reserve to €540 million, with potential member state co-financing up to €1.6 billion. Hansen confirmed adoption by 30 July. On the future MFF, Heydon avoided betting on a deal but stressed progress on CAP negotiations, while Hansen robustly defended the CAP against critics calling it a 'policy of the past,' arguing food security and domestic production are essential. On animal welfare, some ministers requested EU financing for mandatory cage-free systems; Hansen noted transition payments in the future CAP. Regarding the crisis reserve, Hansen clarified it is for market disturbances, not weather disasters, and advocated for risk management via reinsurance, with a pilot project with the EIB expected this year. The debate exposed a cleavage between ministers seeking increased EU funding for animal welfare transitions and the Commission's preference for market-based risk management. EU farmers and fishers face potential compliance costs for cage-free systems, while GI producers benefit from stronger trade protections. Women in agriculture may see targeted support, and the agri-food supply chain gains from reduced external protein dependency. The Council's formal adoption of CAP flexibilities provides immediate relief for fertilizer costs, but the broader MFF negotiations remain unresolved.