The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Luis Planas, has highlighted the importance of research, development and innovation in addressing the main challenges facing the agri-food sector, particularly in the face of climate change, water scarcity and extreme weather events.
During his participation in the 33rd Meeting of the Alexander von Humboldt Association of Spain, held in Córdoba, Planas pointed out that research and new technologies must respond to the real needs of farmers, livestock farmers and agri-food companies and, at the same time, contribute to maintaining the profitability of farms.
Among the tools for transferring research to the sector’s day-to-day activity, the minister highlighted the Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation System (AKIS) and the Operational Groups and projects of the European Innovation Partnership (EIP-AGRI).
In the last two calls under the Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan (PEPAC), the Ministry has allocated €83.75 million to nearly 150 innovative projects.
These initiatives address specific issues such as optimising water use, reducing plant protection products, developing biofertilisers and the application of precision technologies in livestock farming.
Planas also highlighted the role of scientific innovation in improving the sector’s adaptation to new climate conditions, as well as the importance of the Spanish agricultural insurance system. In 2026, the Government has allocated €315 million to this policy.
Regarding water, an investment of more than €2.7 billion up to 2027 is planned to modernise irrigation systems, with actions covering around 800,000 hectares.
