Greek organic farming programmes cancelled, EU MEP Giannis Maniatis questions funding decision

The Greek Ministry of Rural Development and Food announced the cancellation of two EU‑funded organic programmes – organic beekeeping (€19 million) and organic livestock (€115 million) – citing extensive irregularities, high non‑compliance rates and serious weaknesses in inspection and certification mechanisms. In 737 inspections, 35% revealed findings and 20.5% of participants withdrew, a combined 55.5% problem rate. The ministry has fined six certification bodies and suspended three.

PASOK MEP Giannis Maniatis sharply criticised the decision, saying it unfairly punishes thousands of compliant organic producers and reflects a broader failure of the New Democracy government after seven years in office. He submitted a written question to the European Commission asking whether it is aware of the cancellations, how it evaluates the Greek authorities’ handling, whether the redirected funds will still meet EU sustainable agriculture goals, and how the Commission intends to protect the affected producers.