Brussels, Belgium
February 11, 2026

Ahead of the EU Leaders’ Retreat on 12 February, 40 signatory organisations from across the agri-food chain call on EU institutions to place agriculture and food at the heart of Europe’s competitiveness strategy.

Generating over €1 trillion in gross value added, the agri-food value chain is a strategic pillar of the EU economy, food security and resilience. However, increasing global and legal uncertainty, regulatory complexity and rising administrative burdens are putting the sector under strain, delaying investment and slowing innovation.

The joint statement urges EU leaders to strengthen Europe’s strategic independence by investing in agricultural productivity, innovation and circularity, while ensuring affordable food, high standards and generational renewal. Signatories welcome the Commission’s commitment to simplification and competitiveness but stress that further legislative modernisation and continued Omnibus efforts are essential.

Placing simplification, investment and innovation at the centre of the EU agenda is critical to securing the resilience, security and long-term competitiveness of Europe’s agri-food sector.

Read the full statement

Website: http://www.euroseeds.org

Published: February 11, 2026