Over the past couple of days, Minister of Agriculture, Viticulture and Rural Development Claude Haagen met with representatives of pig and grain farmers to discuss current challenges in agriculture.
Last year, the pandemic and the banning of glyphosate led to struggles in the agricultural sector. Since the war in Ukraine started, Luxembourgish farmers have also been challenged by the rising energy prices.
In terms of production rates, the pig farming sector remained stable in 2021. However, prices dropped by 13.5% compared to the previous year. The grain sector recorded a slight increase in production and a 24% price increase during the same time.
Minister Haagen used the last couple of days to meet with representatives of both sectors and discuss their respective challenges. Energy prices and fertiliser delivery delays are currently having a significant impact on day-to-day business.
The government already awarded specific aids to pig farmers in light of the pandemic and swine fever. After their meeting, Minister Haagen decided to launch a third support plan with the help of non-refundable capital aids, which will have certain conditions.
On Thursday, Minister Haagen is expected to address the respective Chamber commission and report from the EU Council meeting, as well as both the pig and grain farmer roundtables.
