The government is working on a new food trade agreement with the European Union (EU) to make it easier for farmers and food producers to trade. This post explains the background to the agreement, what it is meant to do, and how you can keep up with progress.
The conflict in the Middle East continues to influence global fuel and energy prices. We’re working closely with industry to monitor the situation. As part of this, we want to understand how these changes are affecting farmers and land managers in England. We’ve launched a survey to gather your experiences.
We’re now starting to issue grant funding agreements (GFAs) to successful applicants under the productivity and slurry themes. If your application is successful, you will soon receive an email with your GFA.
The Farming and Countryside Programme’s annual report is out, highlighting how funding has helped farmers, foresters, and land managers support nature, sustainable food, and innovation. In addition to this, guidance for Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier applications is available, with the online service opening next week for invited applicants who have completed pre-application advice.
In September, the new Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier (CSHT) service will open for applications to those who have been invited to apply, have received pre-application advice and have completed any preparatory work.
If you're thinking about investing in new kit, there’s still time to apply for the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund 2025. Applications are open now and will close at midday on 10 July.