Canary Islands’ Dairy Support Program

Overview

The Canary Islands’ government has launched a new support program aimed at bolstering local milk production and dairy manufacturing, with a total fund of €13.42 million funded by the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (FEAGA).

The initiative targets both dairy industries that buy locally sourced cow's milk and farmers who sell milk to those industries. The goal is to ensure the sustainability of milk production within the islands amid ongoing challenges faced by local farmers and dairy companies.

Program Details

• The program offers €132 per ton of whole local cow's milk for dairy producers.
• Industries processing this milk receive €123 per ton.
• Additional incentives are available for farmers in Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Gomera, La Palma, and El Hierro, with rates increased to €133 per ton.
• Farmers participating in Rural Development programs may also receive a 10% bonus, provided they have maintained certain agricultural conditions.

Application Period

• Applications are open from July 1 to July 31.
• Applications are also accepted from January 1 to January 31.
• The period depends on when the milk was purchased or produced.

Objectives and Broader Context

This initiative seeks to:

• Strengthen local agriculture.
• Ensure the stability of the regional dairy sector.
• Support local food sovereignty and rural economies.

This move reflects broader efforts to support local food systems and rural development under EU and regional policies.

Quote

This move reflects broader efforts to support local food systems and rural development under EU and regional policies.