Agriculture Minister Anton Refalo has launched a financial scheme with an allocation of €1.8 million for government to assist in mitigating the effects of rising animal fodder prices impacting Maltese and Gozitan farmers due to the conflict in Ukraine.

During a press conference, Refalo explained that this financial aid is aimed at the livestock production sectors of milk, poultry, and egg, as well as the goat sector.

"Since the international situation has brought about unexpected prices for animal breeders, this government has taken the initiative to develop measures, initiatives, and financial schemes to support them so that they do not bear the burden alone,” Refalo said.

It was also explained that the Ministry conducted an analysis of the continuous impact rising animal fodder prices on the livestock sector.

Between 2021 and 2022, the price of hay increased by 36%, while the price of dry grass (huxlief niexef) remained high with a 41% increase. In 2023, prices continued to rise, with a 9% increase in hay and a 2% increase in dry grass.

The Agricultural and Rural Payments Agency (ARPA), within the Ministry, has developed this scheme from national funds to provide financial assistance to Maltese and Gozitan animal breeders.

Director General of ARPA Louisa Formosa explained that eligible animal breeders in the specified sectors can benefit from direct payments based on the number of eligible animals they have.

"This financial aid aims to reduce financial pressure on animal breeders to ensure the continued prosperity of animal farming in Malta and Gozo,” Formosa said.

For more information, individuals can contact ARPA at 22926148 or email [email protected]. Further details about this scheme can be accessed through detailed guidelines on the website www.arpa.gov.mt.