The planned changes to the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) from 2028 were a central topic at the 19th International Conference for Producer Organisations (ICOP). The event took place from 19 to 21 November 2025 near Budapest and was organised by gfa-consulting GmbH with FruitVeB. Around 170 representatives from 15 European countries attended.
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The first day focused on international market trends. Presentations from Rabobank, Copa Cogeca, FruitVeB, Spar Hungary, and the Dutch Fresh Produce Centre outlined developments affecting the fruit and vegetable sector. Several speakers highlighted the contrast between the industry's health-focused image and the decline in fruit and vegetable consumption in recent years.
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The second day opened with a presentation from European Commission spokesperson Kristine Bori on the proposed subsidy framework for fruit and vegetables from 2028. The new approach would restructure funding for producer organisations by merging the first and second pillars of support into a single fund. A co-financing model by Member States is under consideration, and transition periods between CAP cycles would be eliminated. From 2028 onward, the new rules would apply immediately.
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Producers and organisations at ICOP discussed the impact of these changes, raising concerns about the ability to meet minimum requirements for ongoing funding programmes and multi-year projects beyond 2027. Delegates agreed to take their concerns to national governments, aiming to retain sectoral interventions, maintain 50:50 co-financing, and link public support to the value of marketed production. They also plan to send a letter to the Commission regarding transition arrangements and budget allocations for the 2028-2034 period.
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Further speakers, including representatives from ministries, producer organisations, and sector associations, discussed the administrative and financial implications of the proposals. Another session covered digital and technical solutions for agriculture.
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The third day consisted of field visits focused on fruit, vegetables, and mushrooms. In the closing remarks, GFA-Consulting Managing Director Wolfgang Braunstein noted continued uncertainty regarding the future CAP framework and called for clarity on the regulatory conditions that producers will face.
© ICOP 2025For more information:
Kerstin Edelmann
ICOP 2025
Tel: +43 676 840 300 102
Email: [email protected]
www.icop.at
