11 million euros in support for Romanian pig farmers amid rising costs

The European Commission has approved a state aid scheme worth 11 million euros aimed at supporting pig farmers in Romania. This assistance comes at a crucial time as farmers grapple with rising costs for fuels and fertilizers, largely driven by the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

Under this scheme, financial support will be provided in the form of direct grants. Each enterprise can receive a maximum of 50,000 euros, calculated based on the increase in prices for essential resources like fuel and fertilizers.

The measure, which is valid until December 31, 2026, was evaluated by the European Commission in accordance with EU regulations. It falls under the Temporary Framework for State Aid in the Context of the Middle East Crisis (METSAF), adopted by the Commission on April 29, 2026.

The aim of the scheme is to mitigate the impact of additional costs incurred by pig farmers between March 1, 2026, and December 31, 2026. The European Commission concluded that the proposed measure meets the necessary conditions outlined in the METSAF framework and supports the temporary needs of businesses in the pig farming sector.

The approval indicates that the aid is deemed necessary, appropriate, and proportional to the challenges faced by farmers. Importantly, this support will not negatively impact trade conditions, ensuring that it aligns with broader market principles.