News

EU Seeks young farmers advice

Posted 15/05/2014

 

The ageing agricultural demographic is a problem in Europe and in another global states in the north. The shortage of "new blood" entering the farming industry is so concerning that in the recently reformed Common Agricultural Policy specific attention has been paid to attracting and supporting young farmers. Currently the average age of a farmer in Europe is 59, this proves a challenging problem when attempting to pass on the generational baton.

Currently in Europe less than 10% of farmers are under that age of 35 whereas almost a third are over 65 and the average age is increasing. The commission is now seeking to identify the needs of young farmers and asking them to review agricultural exchange schemes and training needs of young farmers.