The Commission has adopted a communication clarifying the use of force majeure and exceptional circumstances in the EU agricultural sector in the event of unpredictable and extreme weather phenomena.

The concept of force majeure allows farmers who have been unable to meet all the requirements of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) due to exceptional and unpredictable events beyond their control (such as severe droughts or floods) to not lose support from the CAP.

The communication presented today clarifies that force majeure can apply to all farmers working in a defined area affected by natural disasters or severe and unpredictable weather events.

This means that farmers located in the affected area will not have to submit individual applications or provide proof of fulfilling the conditions of force majeure.

By clarifying the legal interpretation of this concept, the Commission aims to provide certainty to affected farmers regarding their CAP payments, while ensuring uniform application across the Union by national administrations.

This communication is part of the Commission's measures to reduce the administrative burden on EU farmers.