On Saturday, Minister of Agriculture Martine Hansen engaged in a dialogue with RTL Radio, discussing the trajectory of agriculture in Luxembourg. Hansen projected an evolution towards larger farming enterprises in the nation, citing a survey showing 44% of current farmers lack a successor, against a backdrop of approximately 1,800 operational farms.
In terms of production focus, Hansen underscored the predominance of milk and meat, attributing this to the country's abundant grasslands. She also acknowledged the potential for expanding fruit and vegetable cultivation, despite geographical and labor challenges. To bolster this sector, the government is considering subsidies for greenhouse construction, enabling the growth of crops such as bell peppers, cucumbers, and herbs. A legislative framework to support this initiative is under development.
Subsidies were highlighted as a critical factor for the survival of dairy farms, with future allocations likely based on farm size. Hansen also addressed the challenge of reducing ammonia emissions, noting a 6% reduction towards a 22% target by 2030, to avoid penalties from the European Commission.
Hansen advocated for flexible farm management and dismissed the notion of overproduction, suggesting that exports could mitigate shortages abroad. Critiquing the Organic Action Plan's goal of 20% organic farming by 2025 as "unrealistic," she proposed partial conversion to organic practices as a more feasible approach. On the topic of glyphosate, Hansen revealed no plans for a ban but expressed intentions to collaborate on water protection initiatives and adapt manure spreading periods to climate change impacts.
The relocation of the Administration of Technical Agricultural Services (ASTA) laboratories to Gilsdorf due to mold issues at the current Ettelbruck site was mentioned, with an emphasis on the urgency of the move. Hansen acknowledged administrative delays and highlighted efforts to streamline processes and enhance data accessibility for farming enterprises.
On international trade, Hansen emphasized the need for equitable rules to prevent disadvantages for European businesses. She refuted claims of the Ministry of Agriculture overshadowing environmental concerns, advocating for a balanced advancement of both agriculture and nature conservation.
Source: RTL Today