On July 22, 2023, Spain’s Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food, Luis Planas, announced the commencement of efforts to develop a new National Food Strategy aimed at influencing food policies in Spain and the European Union.
During an event at the Ministry, Planas emphasized the importance of initiating a public participation process. This collective listening initiative will help in crafting a comprehensive and effective strategy for various stakeholders in the agri-food sector. He encouraged industry professionals and organizations to provide their insights and contributions.
Following the announcement by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez about a National Food Strategy during his investiture speech, the Ministry has been actively working in the first half of 2023 to outline a development plan and key strategic areas.
The strategy will focus on six main themes: food security, sustainability, revitalization of rural areas, nutrition and health, innovation and technology, and consumer awareness. Planas explained that there will be three forums held in the coming months, alongside work meetings and the option for email feedback, to gather insights from industry professionals and organizations.
Additionally, the Economic and Social Council (CES) is expected to issue a specific report on this matter. Planas described the strategy as a tool to support public policies, emphasizing Spain’s role as a model of modernity, innovation, and competitiveness.
Regarding the upcoming European strategy on agriculture and food announced by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Planas expressed his intent to influence the process initiated this week. He believes the National Food Strategy will play a role in fostering public discussion in both Europe and Spain.
The national document will be open for public consultation either at the end of this year or early 2025. After this, it will be presented to the Council of Ministers, civil society, and the agri-food sector.
Planas pointed out several significant food challenges, including the digital transformation of the sector, climate change, and geopolitical uncertainties, such as the ongoing war in Ukraine, trade tensions, and upcoming elections in the United States. He stressed that the transition to sustainable food systems must involve stakeholders; otherwise, it may not succeed. Protecting the livelihoods of primary producers during this transition is essential, aiming to adapt food production and purchasing methods to help mitigate climate change.
During a prior conference before Planas’s address, José Miguel Herrero, the Director General of Food at MAPA, discussed current challenges. Yvonne Colomer, director of the Triptolemos Foundation, highlighted the need for a balance among food availability, economic factors, public policies, knowledge, and cultural aspects to ensure food sustainability.
Toni Massanés, director of the Alicia Foundation, emphasized the necessity of applying scientifically rigorous innovation while considering local needs and traditions. Meanwhile, Belén Barreiro, director of the 40dB research agency, pointed out the diversity within Spanish society, the fragmentation of consumer preferences, and the reduction in social cohesion, urging each sector to identify its unique connectors.
Lastly, clinical psychologist Inma Puig stressed the importance of caring for individuals and managing emotions during transitional processes in family-owned businesses within the sector, asserting that listening to others is fundamental and that understanding is the seed of commitment.
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