b"Framework) proposal, will be simpler and more targeted, withEuroseeds particularly welcomes the emphasis on:support more directed towards farmers who actively engage in Ensuring an attractive agricultural sector by providing food production, with a particular focus on young farmers andstability, fair incomes, and access to innovative business models, those farming in areas of natural constraints. Incentives, ratherwhich will help secure generational renewal and attract young than conditions, will be favoured. talent to farming;The Vision is our resolute response to the agri-food sec-Strengthening competitiveness and resilience by ensuring tor's call for actionshaping a future that is competitive,a level playing field in global trade and aligning production resilient, fair and attractive for generations to come. It embodiesstandards for imported goods with EU regulations will rein-a thriving Europe, where rural areas are vibrant and connectedforce food security and sovereignty;hubs of heritage and innovation, said Fitto, Executive Vice-Supporting a future-proof sector by balancing climate President for Cohesion and Reforms. The Commission willaction with food security, plant breeding innovations, improv-work hand in hand with the agri-food sector to enhance itsing access to biopesticides, and recognizing farmers' role in competitiveness and resilience, reinforcing the local dimensionsustainable practices are crucial steps toward a more sustainable and restoring the vital link between food, territory, seasonality,and competitive agricultural sector.cultures and traditions. By strengthening synergies and comple-mentarities and the coordination of funding instruments with sectoral policies, we will ensure effective support and tangible impacts for rural communities. Hansen, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, said that food and farming are vital for Europe's people, economy and society. We need the agri-food sector to flourish and competeOur farmers take centre in a fair global marketplace, with enough resilience to cope with crises and shocks. We must also ensure our own food sover- stage in the EU's food eignty, given the risks and vulnerabilities of today's fast-chang-ing world. The roadmap we are presenting today sets out theproduction system. It is path for tackling the many pressures that EU farmers face.thanks to their daily, hard It will make the sector more sustainable and help agri-culture to remain an attractive and remunerative sector so thatwork that all of us have safe enough young people join the profession, Hansen added. And it will allow agriculture to continue playing a full part in theand high-quality food.EU's efforts to combat the effects of climate change. By respect- Ursula von der Leyening our diversity with a tailored approach, and by consulting with all parties involved, it will help us to shape an attractive farming and food sector for generations to come,.Later in 2025, the EU Commission will propose a com-prehensive simplification package for the current agricultural legislative framework, along with an EU digital strategy for agriculture to support the transition to digital-ready farming.Euroseeds welcomed the European Commissions Vision for Agriculture and Food, as a concrete milestone towards a newGarlich von Essen, Secretary General of Euroseeds, landscape for Europe's agrifood sector. The ambitious roadmapstated: This vision is a much-needed step forward in shaping sets the stage for an attractive, competitive, resilient, future-ori- the future of agriculture in Europe. The European seed sector ented, and fair food production system that supports currentstands ready to contribute to the success of this initiative by and future generations of farmers and agri-food operators. providing more modern, performing varieties that enhance pro-The Commissions focus on simplifying policies and fos- ductivity, resilience, and sustainability. We strongly support the tering innovation and digitalisation aligns with EuroseedsCommissions focus on innovation, simplification, and ensuring long-standing advocacy for a modernized, science-drivena fair and competitive market for European farmers.approach to agricultural sustainability and competitiveness.As the European Commission moves forward with its The upcoming 2025 simplification package and the EU digitalimplementation plans, Euroseeds remains committed to col-strategy for agriculture will be key enablers in this transition,laborating with policymakers and stakeholders to ensure that ensuring that farmers and the broader agri-food communityplant breeding and seed innovation continue to play a pivotal can fully leverage technological advancements for increasedrole in achieving a resilient and sustainable agri-food system for efficiency and sustainability. Europe, concluded von Essen. MAY 2025|SEEDWORLD.COM/EUROPEISEED WORLD EUROPE I 19"