Copa-Cogeca Reaffirms Concerns Over European Commission's Trade Defense Proposal on Fertilizer Imports

Copa-Cogeca reiterates its concerns regarding the European Commission's trade defense proposal on fertilizer imports.

While acknowledging the geopolitical context behind these measures, European farmers will once again bear the economic consequences, with rising costs already impacting the market.

The proposal lacks an impact assessment and a clear medium- and long-term strategy to ensure farmers' access to affordable fertilizers. Without specific modifications, these measures risk harming European agriculture, affecting food security and inflation.

In a letter sent today to Member States, Copa and Cogeca urge the Council Presidency and Member States to support essential and necessary adjustments, including a one-year postponement, a reliable safeguard mechanism, increased quotas, and an annual review clause.

Additionally, the scope of the measures should exclude essential fertilizer components (N, P, K, and N, P).

Beyond these adjustments, a broader diversification strategy is essential. This should include lifting anti-dumping duties on key fertilizers, suspending conventional tariffs, and granting exemptions under the Nitrates Directive (ReNure, digestate, and pasture) to support alternative nutrient sources.