The European Association for Cooperative Banks is pleased to announce the publication of its latest paper on Financing the Future of Agriculture in the EU. This report outlines the collective perspectives of cooperative banks across the European Union on the critical role of financing in shaping the future of agriculture, highlighting key needs and opportunities from the banking sector’s viewpoint.
In the context of the EACB’s active participation in the European Commission’s Strategic Dialogue on the Future of Agriculture, the insights and recommendations of EU cooperative banks aim to influence policy development and ensure that the financial needs of the agricultural sector are adequately addressed in future strategies.
Shaping sustainable agriculture through the Coop banking lens
As the agricultural landscape evolves in response to climate change, technological advancements, and shifting market demands, the supporting role of financial institutions becomes increasingly vital. The EACB’s new paper emphasizes how cooperative banks are uniquely positioned to support farmers and rural communities through tailored financial solutions that promote sustainability, resilience, and innovation; and the policy tweaks needed to better enable these mechanisms.
Key topics identified by the EACB for future policy considerations
- Need for a dedicated transition toolbox including common pathways and data repository
- Assessment of the risk and supervisory framework applicable to banks’ agricultural clients, including the role of collateral requirements and prudential regulation
- Enhanced public-private cooperation
- Strengthened role of insurance and reinsurance against nature and climate hazards
The EACB remains committed to working closely with EU policymakers, agricultural stakeholders, and financial institutions to ensure that Europe’s farmers have the resources they need to thrive in an increasingly complex environment. The publication of this paper is a significant step toward achieving that goal.
Martin Reesink, chair of the EACB’s expert group on agriculture, confirmed: “It is so important that the EACB is one of the umbrella organizations participating in the Commission’s dialogue about the future of agriculture. Finance, as an enabler of the transition, has to be adequately represented! This is an important opportunity for the EACB to work together with all her cooperative members to develop a common position. I look forward to the follow-up and pursuing our engagement to realize the food system transition.”
The full EACB paper is available here.