A study conducted by researchers from the Agri-Food Research and Technology Centre of Aragon (CITA) and the University of Zaragoza concludes that the sheep meat sector is experiencing a structural decline that goes beyond the reduction in the number of farms and animals.
The research analyzes the evolution of the sector in Aragon between 2000 and 2022 and indicates that, although subsidies from the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) have prevented the collapse of many farms, they alone have not been enough to reverse the downward trend.
Lack of generational succession
One of the main problems identified is the lack of generational succession. According to the study, farmers earn competitive incomes in absolute terms, but the long working hours and the difficulties associated with the lifestyle make the activity unattractive to younger generations.
Researchers note that between 1996 and 2023, the sheep population in Aragon decreased by 46%, a trend reflecting the progressive loss of farms and the difficulty in ensuring the sector’s continuity.
The study concludes that, in addition to maintaining CAP support, it will be necessary to promote policies that improve the quality of life in rural areas, encourage generational renewal, and strengthen the economic viability of an activity essential for food production, land conservation, and the sustainability of rural areas.
