Michaela Kaniber calls for agricultural policy reforms in Germany

Bavarian Agriculture Minister Michaela Kaniber has called for significant reforms to German agricultural policy to ensure economic competitiveness and reduce unnecessary burdens on farmers. Kaniber emphasized that laws causing high bureaucracy and costs without providing clear benefits must be removed. Specifically, she advocated for the abolition of the current animal welfare labeling law and the EU Restoration Regulation.

Further demands include pragmatic solutions for fertilizer regulations and a “zero-risk solution” for the EU Deforestation Regulation in countries where illegal deforestation does not occur. Kaniber noted that while the return of agricultural diesel was a positive step, farmers still require more reliable frameworks and less bureaucracy to secure their livelihoods.

In a related context of agricultural advocacy, the German Farmers' Association (BBV) has highlighted the growing pressure on family farms. Farmers face increasing challenges due to cost pressures within the food chain, state mandates, and international market openings, which are creating economic, ecological, and social strain on agricultural businesses.