Despite initial optimism from farmers, especially with the Farmer-Citizen Movement (BBB) in the coalition, the new policies still aim to cut livestock numbers.
The approach is slightly less drastic than previous plans, with reductions tied to farm ownership transfers. For example, new permits will allow for 75% of original pig capacity, 70% of cattle, and 85% of poultry when ownership changes outside the family. Additionally, new buyout regulations will be introduced.
The new agriculture minister, Femke Wiersma, stated that while she would prefer not to implement these measures, the Netherlands must meet obligations set by Brussels. A key driver is the end of a manure derogation that allowed Dutch farmers to apply more nitrogen to their lands than other EU countries. This exception will end in 2026, requiring a reduction in manure production.
Wiersma also plans to negotiate for a new derogation with Brussels but stresses that the Netherlands must meet its current targets to avoid losing existing allowances. The policy does include some relief for farmers, reducing the size of “derogation-free zones” near natural areas, giving them more land to apply manure.
It’s uncertain whether these measures will satisfy the EU or the Netherlands’ Council of State, which previously argued that even the stricter, earlier policies were insufficient. However, the agricultural sector has welcomed a separate move to relax stringent nitrogen emission rules announced last week.
Pipeline: www.pigprogress.net
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