Under the moderation of Verena Scherfranz (LKÖ), this panel will convene to address rising input costs in agriculture. Panellists will include a representative of the RENURE initiative (Borenbond) and technology providers demonstrating mechanical/laser weeding systems alongside an arable farmer using precision farming to share on-farm experiences. Each panellist will give a brief introduction followed by a moderated debate and audience Q&A. The discussion will focus on innovative approaches to fertiliser use, crop protection products and new weeding technologies, highlighting how farmers can boost profitability under regulatory and cost pressures.
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Under the same moderation, this panel will examine labour and skills shortages in European agriculture. Panellists include a national initiative representative and a cooperative leader presenting innovative regional solutions. Each expert will offer a brief introduction followed by a moderated discussion and audience Q&A. The panel will explore how cooperative initiatives and policy measures can improve workforce availability and training, aiming to align EU agricultural labour policy with the practical needs of farmers and foresters.
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This workshop will begin with a keynote by Pierluigi Londero (Head of Unit, Data Governance, DG AGRI) who will outline how artificial intelligence and data governance can enhance competitiveness and sustainability while reducing administrative burdens for farmers. The ensuing panel moderated by a farmers’ representative will feature an introduction by each speaker, followed by an open debate and audience Q&A. Topics will include precision farming, digital monitoring in forestry, AI-driven data analysis and strategies to promote farmer-friendly digital tools. The session aims to bridge policy and innovation, highlighting practical AI applications that increase productivity and reduce costs for European farmers.
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Opening remarks by Francesca Gironi (Women’s Committee Chair) will set the stage for a keynote address from a senior representative of the European Investment Bank focusing on financing instruments for agriculture. The panel discussion will include Viktoria Oslund (Women’s Committee First Vice-Chair), a banking sector representative (Landwirtschaftliche Rentenbank), and an official from the European Commission. Each speaker will make a brief presentation, followed by an open discussion and audience Q&A. The workshop will explore challenges and opportunities in access to land, financing instruments and generational renewal for women farmers. The session aims to identify best practices and policy measures that support gender balance and succession planning in European agriculture.
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The plenary will feature a sequence of high-level addresses on EU agricultural competitiveness. His Royal Highness the Crown Prince of Sweden will deliver a welcome address, followed by the Swedish Minister of Agriculture. Video messages are expected from the Presidents of the European Parliament and the European Commission. Subsequent speakers include Norbert Lins (MEP, AGRI Committee), Martin Heydon (President of the EU Agricultural Council, Ireland), and Commissioner Christophe Hansen. Each address will outline strategic priorities for European agriculture amid expanding markets and regulatory challenges, together setting the scene by underlining the importance of agricultural resilience, innovation and cooperation.
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This session opens with a keynote by former Italian Prime Minister Enrico Letta, who will explore strategic imperatives for EU agricultural competitiveness. Following the keynote, a panel debate will include Mr Letta and panellists: Copa Vice-President Nikolaus Berlakovich, Eduardo Baamonde, President of Cajamar, and Olivier de Matos. Each expert will speak briefly before engaging in a moderated discussion and audience Q&A. The session aims to identify policy and market measures to enhance EU farmers’ competitiveness in a global market, balancing trade liberalisation with sustainable farm viability. It will examine how innovation and strategic partnerships can help European agriculture thrive under economic and regulatory pressures.
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Opening with a keynote by former President of Finland Sauli Niinistö, this session will address global and European food security challenges. The ensuing panel debate will include President Niinistö, Cogeca Vice-President Agnieszka Maliszewska, Monika Tothova, AMIS, FAO and the President of American Farm Bureau Federation Zippy Duval. Each panellist will give a short presentation followed by an open discussion and audience questions. Key topics include stabilising supply chains, strategic autonomy in food production, and the impact of climate change and geopolitical instability on food availability. The discussion will highlight how farmers and cooperatives can contribute to secure and sustainable food systems in Europe and beyond under conditions of uncertainty.
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The Congress’s final plenary session will explore the implications of EU enlargement for agriculture. A keynote by Mr Romano Prodi will open the discussion, focusing on the challenges and opportunities of integrating new Member States. A subsequent panel comprising Mr Prodi, Jan Doležal, Copa Vice-President, Gert Jan Koopman, Director General of DG ENEST, and Tassos Haniotis will debate these issues and take audience questions. Topics include aligning agricultural policies, securing market access, supporting rural development and maintaining competitiveness in an enlarged Union. The session will conclude with reflections on ensuring a balanced and sustainable EU expansion that supports both economic cohesion and a resilient agri-food sector.
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Visits organised by LRF
* The visits cost 50 € per person and will be included in the registration fee.
Backa Farm: The visit will focus on dairy and crop production, generational renewal and investment strategy, the role of forestry as financial security and an investment driver, and a visit to the dairy facilities, pastureland and forest area. Lunch and Swedish fika will be served and the tour will then continue to Österby Farm. Österby Farm: The visit will cover beef and crop production systems, sustainable crop rotation and soil health, farm shop activities and local value chains, with visits to the cattle barn and farm shop. Departure will take place at 2:45 p.m., with an estimated arrival at Arlanda Airport at 3:00 p.m. and at the Congress Hotel at 4:00 p.m.
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Gränsöö Castle: The visit will highlight integrated agriculture, forestry and tourism, apple production and juice processing, nature conservation and land management, and an orchard and forest tour. Lunch and Swedish fika will be served on board the bus due to the long travel distance. The tour will then continue to Mycklinge Farm. Mycklinge Farm: The visit will focus on pig production and crop integration, biogas production and energy self-sufficiency, biosecurity measures and experience with ASF, and a presentation of farm operations and a visit to the biogas facilities.
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Hamra Farm: The visit will cover advanced dairy production and AI-based monitoring, sustainable feed systems and manure recycling, dairy technology and innovation, and a visit to the dairy barn, exhibition hall and museum. Lunch and Swedish fika will be served and the tour will then continue to Tullgarn Farm. Tullgarn Manor: The visit will focus on crop production and grassland management, the role of livestock in biodiversity and landscape maintenance, and beef cattle and mixed farming systems, including visits to the fields, cattle barn and horse stables.
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