Since Latvia's accession to the European Union, farmers have received lower direct payments compared to their counterparts in other EU nations, a situation rooted in the calculation of these payments based on previous lower agricultural productivity indicators. Over the years, while productivity has increased, the payment adjustments have not kept pace. As the EU prepares its next seven-year budget, Latvia is attempting to advocate for a funding level that aligns more closely with the EU average.

Recently, members of the Saeima (the Latvian parliament) voted overwhelmingly to request that the Prime Minister stand up for what they term 'fair EU payments' for Latvian farmers in the upcoming budget period from 2028 to 2034. The call to action highlights the ongoing disparities in support for farmers across EU member states, with Latvia still lagging behind countries like Lithuania. The discussion was initiated by MP Edgars Putra from the United List, raising concerns regarding the initial proposals which indicate an even more dramatic situation for the coming period.

As these negotiations unfold, the implications for Latvian agriculture could be significant. The struggle to secure equitable funding not only affects farmers' livelihoods but also the broader agricultural landscape of Latvia. Policymaking in this area will be watched closely as it reflects how effectively Latvia can advocate for its agricultural community in the European framework, while raising questions about rural development and sustainability in the face of financial inadequacies.