News War
'Russian aggression will hurt Europe's agriculture'
At an agricultural meeting in the European Parliament, senior agricultural officials warned of the painful and potentially long-lasting consequences of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Food shortages are not in the offing, officials say.
European agriculture, and certainly the meat and dairy industry, is heavily dependent on Russian-Ukrainian input for business operations. This concerns feed raw materials, energy and fertilizer. A senior Brussels official, Michael Scannell, told MEPs that "the consequences of the Russian aggression will have a profound impact" on the European food chain and that it will "hurt the sectors".
Agricultural powers
Scannell emphasizes that Ukraine and Russia are important exporters of many crops. For example, both countries account for 30% of the world trade in wheat and barley, 17% of the trade in maize and more than 50% in the trade in sunflower oil and seed. The export of these products is currently completely at a standstill; there is no more shipping from the Ukrainian ports. He warns that this situation is not expected to change anytime soon, for the simple reason that war is currently underway.
Scannell also warns about the long-term consequences. It is uncertain to what extent Ukrainian farmers will be able to sow crops this year. It can ensure that prices will also be supported in the medium term by a smaller supply from the country.
Many MPs emphasize that internal food security in the European Union must be strengthened, given the European dependence on gas, raw materials for animal feed and fertilizers. According to Scannell, the issue is in the crosshairs of European administrators.
The Group of the European Green/Free Alliance seized the opportunity to push for a more sustainable agricultural system in the EU. According to a spokesperson for the group, we have to ask ourselves whether it is responsible to feed 70% of our grains to pigs and poultry.
Although officials warn against high prices, food security is not at stake, according to them. They call the European food system 'reliable and strong' and indicate that it has already proven its worth in the challenging times during the corona pandemic.
The theme of food security also occupies national politics. BBB Member of Parliament Caroline van der Plas asked parliamentary questions about it† According to her, food shortages are lurking.
Steve Wissink
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