The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food, Luis Planas, has announced that, in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Tourism, there will be an additional call for 200 million euros in advantageous loans in the Agri-food Strategic Project for Economic Recovery and Transformation (Perte) 2. This initiative aims to support the agricultural sector with financial assistance.
During the Food & Drink Summit organized by FIAB, Minister Planas revealed that a recent public consultation was held for the second call of the Perte Agri-food project, offering 100 million euros in direct aid. Additionally, a new call for 200 million euros in advantageous loans will be launched to further support the industry.
Emphasizing the importance of innovation and technological advancement in the sector, Minister Planas highlighted that these funds will enable continuous innovation and help companies stay at the forefront of the industry. The previous call for the Perte Agri-food project allocated 183 million euros to 292 projects, demonstrating the government’s commitment to supporting the sector.
Minister Planas also addressed the issue of the food supply chain law, stating that it is functioning reasonably well and emphasizing that all industry players must comply with the regulations. He mentioned plans to transform the AICA into a state agency with increased resources and capabilities to ensure effective enforcement of the law.
Furthermore, Minister Planas discussed the implementation of the National Food Strategy to prepare the sector for the upcoming communication from the European Commission on sustainable food systems. By proactively developing a national food strategy, Spain aims to contribute meaningfully to the EU’s efforts towards sustainable food systems.
In conclusion, Minister Planas underscored the importance of industry collaboration and engagement in shaping the future of the food sector. By leveraging financial support, regulatory frameworks, and strategic planning, the government is committed to promoting innovation, sustainability, and competitiveness in the agri-food industry. The initiatives announced highlight the government’s proactive approach to supporting the sector’s growth and resilience in a challenging economic landscape.