Greek MEP Dimitris Tsiodras (PPE) has submitted a written parliamentary question to the European Commission, pressing for concrete measures to mitigate the effects of the Middle East conflict on the agri-food sector and to bolster EU food security. The question, filed on 7 May 2026, targets rising fertiliser costs, energy affordability for farmers, and the potential impact of EU climate policies on agricultural prices.
Tsiodras warns that the ongoing conflict and geopolitical uncertainty are driving up production costs, with nitrogen fertiliser prices surging 70% compared to 2024, as the region supplies 20-30% of global ammonia and urea exports. This, he argues, threatens to increase food prices and weaken consumer purchasing power.
The MEP's three-part question seeks specific commitments. First, he asks how the Commission will ensure the forthcoming Fertiliser Action Plan makes fertilisers affordable for farmers. Second, he inquires what actions will follow the AccelerateEU Communication to guarantee affordable energy for the agri-food sector, especially small and medium-sized enterprises. Third, he requests data on the potential impact of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and the Emissions Trading System (ETS) on agricultural prices, and how the Commission intends to address any negative consequences.
The question reflects a push for EU-level intervention to shield farmers and consumers from external shocks, while also scrutinising the interplay between climate policy and food security. The Commission is expected to respond within approximately six weeks, and its answer will signal its policy direction on balancing environmental goals with agricultural competitiveness.
Key stakeholders affected include EU farmers facing higher input costs, consumers vulnerable to food price inflation, fertiliser producers and importers, and EU institutions navigating the trade-offs between climate ambition and food security.
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