Brussels approves subsidy plan for relocation of Dutch farmers

By Elcke Vels

The Netherlands has received permission from the European Commission to provide financial support to livestock farmers who voluntarily want to move away from the vicinity of sensitive nature reserves. A total of €105 million is available to help these farmers set up a new agricultural business elsewhere.

Excessive nitrogen emissions

Livestock farmers can choose to relocate to another region within the Netherlands or elsewhere in the European Union. All Dutch livestock farms that have excessive nitrogen emissions are eligible for the relocation plan.

The subsidy can be used for various purposes, such as moving to a new location or dismantling the current farm.

Farmers can make better use of nitrogen

Dutch farmers can use their fertilisers more carefully. This not only leads to reduced ammonia emissions and improved water quality, but also to higher yields.

European Commission approval

Before granting state aid, as in the case of these buyout or relocation schemes, EU countries must always seek approval from the European Commission. The Commission then assesses whether the subsidy is temporary and meets EU objectives. According to the European Commission, the Dutch program meets these criteria.