Source: European Parliament
1. The Commission recognises the importance of facilitating access to funding for small and medium-sized beekeepers, particularly in less-developed regions. While the implementation of the mandatory apiculture sectoral support under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Strategic Plans rests with Member States, the Commission is continuously engaged with the latter to ensure that the available support measures are effectively implemented and adapted to address the needs of their beekeepers effectively. Under the CAP simplification package[1] presented by the Commission on 14 May 2025, payments per beehive will be allowed for agri-environment-climate commitments and eco-schemes providing Member States more flexibility to support their beekeepers.
2. The Commission supports mechanisms for transparent and effective consultation with representatives of the apiculture sector. During the drawing up of the CAP Strategic Plans, Member States were required to collaborate with the representatives of organisations in the beekeeping field and they continue to be actively involved in the development and implementation of apiculture sectoral support. The Commission also facilitates dialogue and exchange of best practices among Member States to enhance stakeholder involvement.
3. The continued support to beekeeping, together with the various policy initiatives to safeguard pollinators and their environment, will remain a key focus in the future under the CAP. The Commission will continue to engage with stakeholders and Member States to develop effective strategies to enhance the sustainability and resilience of the bee-keeping sector, considering its vital role for sustainable agriculture and the environment.
- [1] https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/circabc-ewpp/d/d/workspace/SpacesStore/b595fc96-2988-44fb-86a5-4383cb070119/download.