The European Commission (EC) has said it will present 'new, more targeted measures' this week to support farmers affected by the Russian import ban, and has stressed the need for more market diversification.

On August 18 the EC announced €125 million (US$167 million) in emergency aid measures for growers of certain agricultural crops, but last week suspended them for fear that some farmers were abusing the system.

Speaking at the European Parliament Plenary debate on Monday, Agriculture & Rural Development Commissioner Dacian Cioloș said the fruit and vegetable sector had lost around a third of its business as a result of the trade embargo, according to Ciolos' speaking note.

He said newer and more targeted measures that gave continual support would be developed and unveiled during this week, adding the EC needed to increase its budget if it wanted to effectively help all the farmers affected by the embargo.

The Commissioner went on to emphasize the need for immediate action to stabilize EU markets, adding that preparation needed to take place for the future so as to reduce the agricultural industry's dependence on Russia.

Ciolos also announced €30 million (US$38.8 million) in additional funds to support farmers undertaking programs that will help shift EU exports to other world markets.

He also said the question surrounding EU market stabilization required a real and political discussion, as the decisions made should be based upon the evolution of the ongoing situation in Ukraine.

Finally, Ciolos said the EC's message to the farming community about the unjustified Russian import ban was that Europe had displayed, and must continue to display, total unity and cohesion.

Click here for more of our coverage on the Russian trade embargo.

Photo: Wikimedia Creative Commons

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