The Ministry of Agriculture has announced the launch, in October, of a new line of non-reimbursable funding aimed at strengthening small and medium-sized farms, with a maximum value of €200,000 per project. The measure is part of the relaunch of the National Strategic Plan (NSP) and aims to increase the competitiveness of Romanian farmers within the agri-food chain.

Eligible expenses include investments in storage facilities, agricultural equipment, digitalization, and primary processing infrastructure. Co-financing is at least 15%, and project selection will be based on a scoring system that favors associations and farms located in disadvantaged areas.

According to Minister Florin Barbu, more than 1,500 projects could be approved in 2025. Farmers are encouraged to prepare the necessary documentation in advance — including permits and feasibility studies — to avoid delays in the evaluation process.

This measure could have a significant impact in reducing disparities between Romanian farms and those in Western Europe. However, effective implementation remains a challenge, particularly at the county level.