Amidst escalating global trade tensions between the EU and China and climate change challenges, FEFAC presents a visionary roadmap with 12 strategic recommendations for EU agricultural resilience, autonomy and sustainability from 2024 to 2029.

In an era marked by geopolitical friction and economic uncertainties, global trade dynamics have been increasingly shaped by ongoing trade wars. The feud between the United States and China, initiated in 2018, has been a prominent example, leading to tariffs and disruptions across various sectors worldwide. Now, similar tensions loom over Europe as recent actions by the European Union, including additional tariffs on Chinese automobiles, have sparked warnings of a potential trade war from Beijing. This backdrop underscores a critical juncture for Europe, necessitating enhanced economic autonomy and strategic resilience.

Simultaneously, climate change continues to exert profound pressures on global agricultural and livestock sectors, demanding rigorous emissions reductions and sustainable practices. For the European Union, achieving climate neutrality and reducing greenhouse gas emissions are paramount goals, integral to both environmental stewardship and economic stability. Amidst these challenges, ensuring sufficient autonomy in vital sectors like agriculture and feed production becomes imperative, especially amidst growing dependencies on imports from China.

FEFAC, the European Feed Manufacturers’ Federation, has stepped forward with a visionary roadmap encapsulated in 12 strategic recommendations for the EU’s agenda from 2024 to 2029. These recommendations are designed to fortify Europe’s agricultural resilience, foster circular economies, and bolster sustainability within the livestock and aquaculture industries. They advocate for policies that enhance Europe’s capacity to produce essential feed ingredients locally, reduce environmental footprints, and secure supply chains against global disruptions.

FEFAC’s recommendations prioritize:

•  Enhancing EU’s production of essential feed ingredients to reduce dependency on imports.
•  Promoting circular economies and resource efficiency in feed and livestock sectors.
•  Supporting innovation in low-emission feed solutions and sustainable agricultural practices.
•  Strengthening EU’s strategic autonomy in critical feed and agricultural sectors.

FEFAC’s 12 recommendations present a robust framework aimed at addressing pressing challenges faced by the EU. They offer a proactive approach towards enhancing agricultural resilience and sustainability, aligning with global climate goals while aiming for greater economic autonomy. However, the implementation of these recommendations may encounter challenges such as regulatory hurdles, technological adaptation, and the need for substantial investments. Nevertheless, they provide a coherent pathway for Europe to navigate geopolitical uncertainties and environmental imperatives, fostering a resilient agricultural sector capable of leading in global sustainability efforts.

As Europe navigates the complexities of trade dynamics and environmental imperatives, FEFAC’s recommendations serve as a beacon for policymakers and industry stakeholders alike. They outline a pathway towards greater self-sufficiency, innovation-driven growth, and alignment with global sustainability goals. By prioritizing these recommendations, the EU can not only mitigate the risks posed by external economic pressures but also lead the way in sustainable agricultural practices on the global stage.”