Answer given by Mr Wojciechowski on behalf of the European Commission

3.1.2020

The Commission is closely monitoring the evolution of agricultural markets, with a particular focus on the impact that the additional US tariffs might have on farmers in the Union. The Commission would consider mobilising market stabilisation instruments as set out in the common market Organisation (CMO) Regulation, should objective evidence demonstrate the appropriateness of such measures.

Since 2015, EU promotion measures in third countries have accounted for most of the promotion budget, providing for 80% Union co-financing of promotion campaigns abroad. In the case at hand, the promotion policy may help operators to retain their position on the US market or encourage them to seek new opportunities in other markets.

In 2020, the European Commission will allocate EUR 200.9 million to fund promotion activities for EU agri-food products at home and abroad. These activities will cover sectors such as dairy. The promotion policy work programme adopted on 18 November outlines the main priorities for support. Publication of calls for proposals is foreseen in January 2020. The sector is invited to make the most of these promotion opportunities[1].

• [1] More information on the implementation of the promotion policy is available at: https://ec.europa.eu/chafea/agri/