EU fertilizer import tariffs may be temporarily and retroactively suspended as the European Commission responds to mounting pressure from farmers across Europe. The proposal follows intense farmer protests held on 18 December on the sidelines of the European summit.
The European Commission and the Cypriot presidency of the EU Council convened an informal meeting of Agriculture Ministers on Wednesday to address farmers’ concerns. The talks focused on reducing input costs and easing regulatory pressure on the agricultural sector.
Suspension of Tariffs on Ammonia and Urea
To reduce fertilizer prices, the Commission proposed suspending import tariffs on fertilizers such as ammonia and urea. The move aims to lower the cost of artificial fertilizers and improve affordability for farmers.
The Commission is also considering adjustments to the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). These changes would allow temporary exemptions for fertilizers, easing cost pressures linked to climate regulations.
Maros Sefcovic, European Commissioner for Trade, said fertilizer prices remain unsustainably high. “While prices have stabilised, fertilizer prices are still 60% higher than in 2020,” he said after the meeting.
Additional Measures for Farmers
Beyond fertilizers, the Commission plans to ban three pesticides in imported products that are already prohibited within the EU. Officials are also working on technical adjustments and simplifications to existing agricultural regulations.
Earlier this week, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, proposed the early release of €45 billion for farmers under the next multiannual EU budget.
Member States Remain Divided
Despite these proposals, several ministers believe the measures fall short. Jo Brouns, Flemish Minister of Agriculture, called the package “far from sufficient.” He warned that EU farmers continue to face stricter rules than competitors outside the bloc.
The meeting took place ahead of a possible vote on the EU–Mercosur Free Trade Agreement. While not officially on the agenda, the Commission’s concessions are seen as an effort to win support from hesitant member states.
Italy’s position remains crucial. Without Italy, opponents led by France and Poland may struggle to form a blocking minority. Belgium has already said it will abstain.
Fresh farmer protests against Mercosur are planned in Belgium and France on Thursday and Friday.
📊 Key Policy Measures Discussed (Quick Table)
| Issue | Proposed EU Action | Objective |
|---|---|---|
| Fertilizer prices | Suspend EU fertilizer import tariffs on ammonia and urea | Reduce input costs for farmers |
| Climate rules | Temporary CBAM exemptions for fertilizers | Ease regulatory cost burden |
| Pesticides | Ban EU-prohibited pesticides in imports | Ensure fair competition |
| Farmer support | €45 billion early budget release | Improve income stability |
| Trade pressure | Concessions ahead of Mercosur vote | Secure member state support |
