26/03/14: 57th FEFAC Annual General Meeting: “Greening” the landscape for animal nutrition in Europe

2014 marks a transition year for the feed chain as the EU moves from the old Common Agriculture Policy into the implementation period of the reform package, therefore close scrutiny is required as the agreements are put into practise. One of the key objectives of the 57th FEFAC Annual General Meeting is to discuss the contribution animal nutrition can make to the “greening” of livestock farming in order to meet the policy goals for sustainable development while improving competitiveness.

The key driver for future growth in the compound feed industry will be the anticipated increase in global demand for European dairy products. FEFAC has therefore invited EDA (European Dairy Association) President Michel Nalet to share their perspective on EU dairy market outlooks in the background of the CAP reform dynamics, with particular attention for the lifting of milk quotas in 2015.

Martin Scholten, Chairman of the Animal Task Force, a science-based organisation that brings together industry and academic experts as regards innovations in the livestock industry, has been invited to highlight the key R&D challenges in EU livestock farming and animal nutrition. Submitting common precompetitive research projects in support of initiatives for sustainable agriculture, such as the DG AGRI stimulated European Innovation Partnerships, will help to demonstrate the new opportunities for the value chain part of the livestock sector.

For the 2nd discussion panel, FEFAC has invited FVO Director Michael Scannell (European Commission) as a key note speaker to discuss the main implications of the future interaction between the official controls of competent authorities and the private sector own check systems. A key focus area will be the role animal nutrition can play to reduce the need for antibiotics, as has been outlined in the EU action plan on antimicrobial resistance. DG SANCO will provide an update to the General Assembly on its planned proposal to harmonise EU rules for medicated feed.

FEFAC President Ruud Tijssens invites FEFAC members and stakeholders to join its 57thGeneral Assembly in Liège in order to discuss the key options for stronger cooperation to unlock the potential of EU livestock production in the context of global growth of demand for animal products.