The adoption of Regulation (EU) 2026/1768 marks an important step in the European Union’s response to the sharp increase in fertiliser prices triggered by the 2026 Middle East crisis. Recognising the impact of rising input costs on farm profitability, food production, and food security, the regulation introduces a new temporary support mechanism under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) to help farmers manage the additional costs associated with fertiliser use.
The regulation allows Member States to provide support covering up to 50% of the additional fertiliser costs incurred by farmers as a result of market developments since March 2026. It also introduces greater flexibility in CAP implementation, including higher advance payments and the possibility for Member States to adapt direct payment allocations for 2027 to respond to the crisis. These measures are designed to provide farmers with the liquidity and stability needed to maintain production during a period of significant market uncertainty.
However, one of the most significant aspects of the regulation is its clear recognition of the value of sustainable farming practices. Support intensity can increase from 50% to as much as 80% for farmers who are already committed to measures that reduce fertiliser use or improve environmental performance. This includes farmers participating in environmental commitments and nutrient management approaches that contribute to a more efficient and sustainable use of inputs.
This provision sends a clear message: improving sustainability is not only beneficial for the environment, but also enhances the resilience of agricultural systems in times of crisis. Farms that rely on more efficient nutrient management are often better able to absorb fluctuations in input prices and reduce dependence on external resources.
This is precisely where the STRATUS project becomes highly relevant. By supporting data-driven decision-making, innovative monitoring approaches, and improved nutrient management strategies, STRATUS contributes to the development of farming systems that are both productive and resource-efficient. The project’s objectives align closely with the direction signalled by the new regulation, which rewards farmers who adopt practices that reduce fertiliser dependency while maintaining economic viability.
Ultimately, Regulation (EU) 2026/1768 demonstrates how crisis support and sustainability objectives can work together. For projects such as STRATUS, it provides further evidence that innovation, environmental stewardship, and economic resilience are increasingly becoming central pillars of European agriculture.