Zero-interest loans proposed for drought-hit farmers pending budget approval

During a gathering of livestock leaders in Cournon-d’Auvergne, Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard presented a new support plan for farmers hit by an unprecedented drought and heatwave. Central to the proposal are zero-interest loans intended to shore up cash flow, with a potential ceiling of two billion euros for purchases such as feed and inputs. A complementary scheme would allow recently established young farmers to renegotiate loan terms.

Genevard also announced the release of a 21-million-euro reserve from a re-armament fund, alongside a 235-million-euro allocation managed by prefects for the most affected producers. However, the loan program hinges on the adoption of the 2027 budget, which remains uncertain without a parliamentary majority. The FNSEA and Jeunes Agriculteurs, who attended the summit, have pressed for immediate implementation of the measures.