Coldiretti Alarm: EU Cuts Italian Food Promotion in Half

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EU budget cuts threaten Italy's agricultural exports, reducing funding for promotion from €185.9M to €92M, risking competitiveness and international recognition.

The Impact of EU Budget Cuts on Italian Agricultural Exports

The European Commission’s recent decision to halve funding for agricultural product promotion poses a significant threat to Italy’s export growth. In 2023, Italian food exports reached a record high of over 64 billion euros. This reduction in funding could undermine years of hard work by the agricultural sector in promoting Italian products internationally.

Organizations such as Coldiretti, Filiera Italia, Cia, and Legacoop Agroalimentare have raised concerns about this decision. They argue that Italy has been one of the largest beneficiaries of these funds, utilizing approximately 40% of the available resources for simple programs. Furthermore, the proposed budget cut from 185.9 million euros to just 92 million euros will severely limit promotional activities.

The implications of this funding reduction are profound. It not only threatens the competitiveness of Italian agricultural products but also risks diminishing the international recognition of Italy’s high-quality offerings. As the global market becomes increasingly competitive, maintaining robust promotional efforts is essential for sustaining Italy’s agricultural export success.

The Importance of Promotion in the Agricultural Sector

Promotion plays a crucial role in the success of Italy’s agricultural sector. It helps to enhance the visibility and appeal of Italian products in international markets. The proposed budget cuts would significantly hinder these promotional activities, which are vital for maintaining Italy’s reputation for quality.

In 2024, Italy continued to lead in the number of promotional programs submitted, with 40 simple and 8 multiple programs. However, the demand for these programs has surged, with applications exceeding 290.9 million euros. This overwhelming interest highlights the importance of promotional funding for all EU member states, not just Italy.

The reduction in funding is seen as unacceptable by industry leaders. They emphasize that a strong promotional policy is essential for supporting the competitiveness of businesses and enhancing the internationalization of Italian products. Without adequate funding, the unique qualities of Italian agricultural products may struggle to stand out in a crowded marketplace.

The Call for Action and Future Prospects

In light of these challenges, industry leaders are calling for immediate action from the Italian government. They urge Minister Francesco Lollobrigida to advocate for the restoration of adequate funding during upcoming EU discussions. Building alliances with other member states is crucial to ensure that the promotion of Italian and European agricultural products remains a priority.

The potential consequences of failing to address this issue are significant. A weakened promotional strategy could send a negative signal to the market, undermining the hard-earned reputation of Italian products. Therefore, it is imperative for stakeholders to unite and push for a budget that reflects the importance of agricultural promotion.

In conclusion, the future of Italy’s agricultural exports hinges on the ability to secure necessary funding for promotional activities. As the global market evolves, maintaining a strong presence and promoting the unique qualities of Italian products will be essential for continued success. The time for action is now, and the agricultural sector must rally together to safeguard its future.

media: WineMag – ® Riproduzione riservata

source: WineMag – Allarme Coldiretti: «Commissione europea dimezza promozione cibo italiano»