Malta took part in high-level European discussions on agriculture and fisheries this week, as the European Commission presented a series of proposals aimed at strengthening the sector across the European Union.

The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights, Anton Refalo, represented Malta in Brussels, where the Commission outlined new initiatives including a proposal to reduce maximum residue levels of certain hazardous substances in pesticides to zero. This would effectively prohibit the importation of products treated with those substances. The Commission also announced plans to strengthen import controls and to address the high cost of fertilisers through targeted measures, including a temporary suspension of certain tariffs and the development of a Fertiliser Action Plan.

The European Commissioner for Agriculture also referred to a letter sent by the President of the European Commission to the European Parliament and the Cypriot Presidency, setting out proposals to facilitate access to future Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) funding. These include immediate access to around €45 billion already allocated under the CAP but previously linked to the submission of revised national plans at a later stage. The Commission also confirmed that 10% of national CAP resources will be earmarked for investment and projects in rural areas, as well as the possibility of allocating funds for compensation payments to farmers affected by crises and extreme weather.

Refalo said Malta supports the EU's efforts to enhance global competitiveness but stressed that policies must reflect national circumstances. He said the CAP remains vital for Maltese and Gozitan farmers, and that sufficient flexibility is needed to ensure that Malta does not face a reduction in direct aid compared to current levels.

The minister also called for proportionate controls and obligations for small farms, reduced administrative and regulatory burdens, and stronger support for rural communities. He added that Malta continues to monitor trade agreements closely to ensure that no sector is disproportionately affected.