The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) of the European Union is one of the most significant pillars of EU policy, aimed at ensuring stability, security, and sustainable development in the European agri-food sector. Since its introduction in 1962, the CAP has become a key tool in supporting farmers and food producers, while also promoting sustainable agricultural practices and ensuring the quality of food products.
Objectives and functions of the CAP
The CAP aims to support the competitiveness of agriculture in the EU, ensuring farmers a stable income and food security. With funding from the EU budget, the CAP offers a range of support tools, including direct payments to farmers, rural development programs, and initiatives promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
One of the main goals of the CAP is to ensure high-quality food, which is particularly important in the context of growing consumer expectations for the safety and quality of food products.
Support for farmers and producers
A key component of the CAP is the system of direct payments, which provides significant financial support for farmers. This allows farmers to invest in the development of their farms, modernize infrastructure, and implement new technologies. These programs are especially important for small and medium-sized farms, which make up the majority of the European agricultural sector.
The CAP also includes rural development programs aimed at improving the quality of life in rural areas, supporting local entrepreneurship, and promoting tourism. Investments in infrastructure, education, and environmental protection contribute to the sustainable development of rural areas, which is crucial for maintaining the balance between urban and rural areas.
Quality and safety of food products
The CAP places a strong emphasis on the quality and safety of food products. With strict quality standards and certification systems, consumers can be confident that products originating from the EU meet high-quality standards. Systems such as HACCP, GHP, GMP, and GAP ensure that every stage of food production is closely monitored and controlled, minimizing the risk of contamination and ensuring consumer safety.¹
Benefits for importers
Importing food from the EU guarantees high quality and safety. Thanks to the CAP, European farmers and producers are required to adhere to strict quality standards, resulting in stable and predictable supplies. Importers can expect a wide range of food products, from fresh and processed fruits and vegetables to high-quality meats.
The Common Agricultural Policy of the EU is a comprehensive support system aimed at ensuring the stability and sustainable development of the agri-food sector in Europe. Thanks to the CAP, European food products are synonymous with high quality and safety. By choosing food from the EU, importers can be assured they are bringing to market products that meet high standards.
1 https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/common-agricultural-policy_en
