Spain begins distribution of fertilizer subsidies to farmers

Spanish farmers have begun receiving the first round of government subsidies intended to offset the rising costs of fertilizers. In Extremadura, 18,083 farmers will receive a total of 33.16 million euros, with the majority of funds allocated to the province of Badajoz.

Nationwide, the first payment phase involves 249,376 farmers receiving a combined 494.57 million euros. This initiative is part of a 700 million euro Integral Response Plan to the Middle East Crisis approved by the central government.

However, the Unión de Pequeños Agricultores y Ganaderos (UPA) has criticized the aid as “all things considered insufficient” to cover the actual cost increases faced by producers. The organization has also called on autonomous communities to provide additional support, noting that only the Balearic Islands and La Rioja have announced complementary funds. UPA expressed ongoing concerns regarding the lack of progress from European-level measures to ensure long-term fertilizer affordability.