Published in News
Meat Subsidies Under EU Review
New report shows strong CAP support for livestock as Brussels debates future farm funding.
Martina Osmak
Director of Marketing
A new policy report has brought fresh attention to how the European Union supports the meat sector through its Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
The analysis, published by Foodrise, estimates that in 2020 around 77% of the €51 billion CAP budget supported animal-based production. Beef, lamb and dairy received substantially higher levels of funding than plant-based categories such as legumes, nuts and seeds.
For meat companies, this discussion is important. CAP payments remain a core financial framework for livestock farming across the EU.
Why the Debate Is Growing
Agriculture is becoming more central to EU climate and sustainability policy. Emissions linked to food production are increasingly part of political discussions in Brussels.
Some policymakers argue that future subsidies should better reflect environmental targets. Others emphasise the economic role of livestock in:
Rural employment
Regional stability
Food security
Export competitiveness
While most CAP payments today are technically decoupled from production levels, the overall distribution of funds is now under renewed scrutiny.
What Could Happen Next
A 2024 European Commission strategy paper suggested developing an EU plan to strengthen plant-based supply chains. Advocacy groups are pushing for changes in how future subsidies are prioritised.
No immediate policy shift has been confirmed. However, with CAP reform discussions continuing, meat and dairy businesses should closely monitor developments.
Funding structures shape long-term investment decisions — and the direction of EU agriculture for the next decade.