The European Commission’s October 2025 proposal for the post-2027 CAP sets a stronger, more coherent path toward sustainability and resilience while simplifying obligations for farmers. A new farm stewardship system will replace current conditionality, introducing fewer, targeted requirements for soil health, water protection, biodiversity, and animal welfare—while allowing Member States greater flexibility to adapt rules to local conditions. Organic and small farms are largely exempt.
The proposal shifts further toward incentive-based environmental action through new Agri-Environmental and Climate Actions (AECA), merging eco-schemes and agri-environmental measures. These include more flexible annual or multi-annual commitments and transition payments of up to €200,000 to support the shift to sustainable systems such as regenerative or organic farming.
Investment support, advisory services, innovation, and cooperation remain central, helping farmers improve environmental performance and competitiveness. Together, these measures contribute to the CAP’s target of directing 43% of spending toward climate and environmental objectives.
