Greek MEP Galato Alexandraki (ECR) has asked the European Commission whether its forthcoming protein supply plan will include a specific Mediterranean component for legume and protein crops, and whether it will be linked to the parallel fertiliser action plan to reduce dependence on imported animal feed and expensive nitrogen fertilisers.
In a written parliamentary question submitted on 22 April 2026, Alexandraki notes that the Agriculture and Fisheries Council of 30 March 2026 confirmed the Commission is preparing both a 'protein supply plan' and a 'fertiliser action plan'. She highlights that the EU imports plant protein products equivalent to 19 million tonnes of crude protein, while producing only 27% of livestock needs for oilseed meals. Additionally, due to the Iran crisis, nitrogen fertiliser prices in March 2026 were approximately 58% above the 2024 average, prompting consideration of exceptional support measures.
The MEP's question contains three concrete asks: first, whether the protein supply plan will include a Mediterranean-specific component for legume and protein crops for animal feed; second, whether the Commission will propose targeted incentives through the common agricultural policy and coupled support for Member States with permanent protein dependence, such as Greece; and third, whether the plan will be linked to the fertiliser action plan to reward crops that reduce the need for nitrogen fertilisers and enhance livestock resilience.
Policy orientation: The question advocates for a differentiated EU approach that recognises the specific climatic and agricultural conditions of Mediterranean Member States, where legume and protein crops could simultaneously reduce dependence on imported feed and expensive nitrogen fertilisers. It pushes for stronger integration between the protein and fertiliser plans, and for targeted financial incentives under the CAP.
Expected follow-up: The Commission is required to reply within approximately six weeks. Its answer will signal whether the protein supply plan will include regional differentiation and concrete incentives, and whether the link to the fertiliser action plan is being considered — indicating the direction of EU policy on agricultural self-sufficiency and input cost resilience.