In Malta the local farmers face a huge gap in income, netting USD 2,700 less per hectare compared to their Italian counterparts as noted in a report by Peter Agius, a PN candidate. The gap can be attributed to the distribution to farmers of Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) subsidies. Maltese farmers getting only half of the subsidies provided for Italian farmers. This is further exacerbated by the Maltese government’s negotiations strategies to obtain CAP subsidies that are deemed insufficient by Agius and criticizes Maltese government officials for criticizing Maltese government for blameing the EU for the local challenges to agriculture.

Agius says the fact that Italy’s use of EU policies has earned its farmers better subsidies and benefits, which Malta isn’t yet able to equal. The difference is apparent in EU support for the cultivation of vegetables as well as legumes. Maltese farmers can receive as much as EUR 1,400 per hectare. This is considerably smaller than the EUR4,100/ hectare offered in the EU subsidies to Italian farmers. These disparities do not just put Maltese agriculturalists at disadvantage, but also affect the food security of Malta by making Maltese produce less competitive with imported products.

It also reveals that just half of Malta’s agriculture property is declared as purposes of the CAP. This is in contrast to Italy’s 80percent which is limiting local production. Agius warns about the serious negative consequences of inaction such as higher prices for food and the possibility of food security issues. Agius calls for a review of Malta’s policy towards CAP subsidies to guarantee an equitable and fair support of local agriculture as well as safeguarding the nation’s food security.

Source: newsbook.com.mt