On Friday, October 4, Latvian Minister of Agriculture Armands Krauze addressed Moldovan agricultural policymakers, farmers, and rural entrepreneurs at the "EU for Farmers" (EU 4 Farmers) Agriculture Conference and Cooperation event, organized by Moldova's Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry. Minister Krauze shared Latvia’s journey toward becoming part of the European Union (EU) and reflected on its 20-year experience as a participant in the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
In his speech, Minister Krauze said, "I wholeheartedly encourage you to choose the path of joining a democratic and progressive European community of nations, united by shared values of democracy, human rights, freedom, equality, and the rule of law. On May 1 of this year, Latvia celebrated its 20th anniversary as a member of the European Union. Enough time has passed for the numbers to clearly show the benefits that society, and especially farmers, have gained from EU membership."
Over the past 20 years, the export value of Latvian agricultural products has increased 16-fold, and added value has grown by 3.5 times, while forestry products now account for around 40% of total exports. Agricultural development was one of the key challenges during Latvia’s accession to the EU. Today, Latvian farmers make extensive use of modern technologies, focus on the sustainable development of their farms, and actively implement innovative solutions.
Minister Krauze also noted that while administrative burdens on farmers have increased, direct payments remain unequal across EU member states, and stringent environmental requirements present a significant challenge for agricultural production. However, the benefits to both the country and farmers far outweigh these drawbacks. Indeed, 76% of Latvian citizens support the nation’s decision to join the EU.
At the "EU for Farmers" event, Minister Krauze provided Moldovan entrepreneurs with detailed insights into Latvia’s reforms in agriculture, forestry, and fisheries, the core principles of the CAP, financial opportunities, and the many support measures available. He also shared comparative data that illustrate the development of Latvian agriculture and forestry over the last 20 years, clearly demonstrating the advantages of EU membership.
The Agriculture Conference, organized by Moldova's Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry, will conclude on Saturday, October 5, with an address by EU Agriculture Commissioner Janusz Wojciechowski to Moldovan farmers.
Note: A constitutional referendum on Moldova's accession to the EU is scheduled for October 20.