The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) has announced the implementation of a new compensation mechanism for farmers affected by the drought of the 2025 agricultural year. The scheme follows the model applied in 2024, with financial support from the national budget and possible co-financing from European funds. Local committees are already carrying out field assessments, and farmers must submit the required documentation in order to benefit from support.

1. Current Mechanism According to official statements, the ministry is preparing a mechanism similar to the one applied last year. The process begins with assessments carried out by local committees, which draw up official reports certifying the damages. These documents are centralized at county level and sent to MARD, serving as the basis for determining compensation amounts and budgetary needs.

2. Key Deadlines for Farmers The deadline for submitting notifications regarding spring crops affected by drought is October 15, 2025. Farmers must present to the town hall the single payment application submitted to APIA, along with an identity document or the registration certificate (CUI), depending on the type of organization. Assessments are carried out by verifying control plots representing 5% of the declared areas.

3. Estimates Regarding Compensation Amounts In 2024, financial support was set at 1,000 lei/ha for land affected by at least 30%, according to GEO no. 120/2024. For 2025, the amount has not yet been established, but authorities have stated that it will reflect farmers’ actual expenses and will be adjusted depending on the extent of the damages identified.

4. Steps Farmers Must Follow

Stage              Action

1                       Verification of eligibility and registration with APIA using the 2025 payment application.

2                        Submission of the notification to the town hall by October 15, 2025.

3                        Preparation of documents: APIA application and ID document/CUI.

4                        Participation in evaluations carried out by local committees.

5                        Transmission of the official reports to the County Agricultural Directorates and MARD.

6                         Awaiting official communication regarding the amount and payment schedule.

5. Outlook and Recommendations In order to benefit from compensation, farmers must be proactive and comply with the established deadlines. Complete and accurate documentation is essential for validating applications. Transparent and timely communication from MARD regarding the amounts and payment schedule will be decisive for supporting the agricultural sector in 2025.