Estonian farmers impacted by extreme weather from 2023 to 2024 will receive €3.3 million in emergency aid. This initiative targets fruit, vegetable, and rapeseed growers, with the horticulture sector as the main focus due to adverse weather conditions.
The remaining budget will be redistributed among larger rapeseed and turnip rape growers. Additional aid for smaller growers will be developed using rural development program funds. "The sustainability of agriculture determines our ability to produce food and maintain supply security," stated Regional and Agriculture Minister Piret Hartman (SDE).
The Ministry of Regional Affairs and Agriculture emphasizes a combined approach to assist as many farmers as possible. "To support our farmers in coping with weather-related damages and to ensure their continued operations, we are providing extraordinary assistance to affected farmers with the help of the European Commission," Hartman added.
The support package targets fruit and berry growers, apple growers, open-field vegetable farmers, potato growers, and rapeseed and turnip rape farmers. Eligible farmers can access a pre-filled application in the Agriculture Registers and Information Board (PRIA) e-services portal by March 10 and must confirm by March 17. Payments are scheduled by April 30.
Estonia declared an emergency situation (Eriolukord) in agriculture in July 2023, following a cold, dry spring. Wet weather in 2024 further impacted the grain harvest. This financial support aims to help farmers recover from losses and sustain agricultural productivity.
Source: News err