Bulgarian farmers are in line for huge state funding in a bid to boost food security.
Agriculture minister Ivan Ivanov has unveiled a record €560 million budget to encourage greater output.
The initiative is the direct result of food security fears due to the war in Ukraine.
However, Mr Ivanov has warned the cash boost is still not enough to off-set the rising prices seen for feed, fertilisers and energy.
The minister, who has promised a streamlined payment process, is giving €40.33 million to livestock farmers, with €32.93 going to fruit, vegetable and horticulture growers.
Money has also been allocated for the purchase of wheat and sunflower seeds.
Mr Ivanov said he was concerned over Bulgaria’s heavy reliance on imports of raw and refined sugar, with some of the sources currently uncertain to deliver.
“In this market environment, the main direction to ensure sugar consumption in Bulgaria is the processing of raw cane sugar for refining,” he said.
“That is why Bulgaria would like to regulate preferential access to raw materials for refineries in sugar beet deficit member states.”
Bulgaria is expecting a good harvest, both autumn and spring, but is looking to push production even higher.
It is seeking derogations to CAP environmental measures, including allow-ing the planting of crops on fallow land.
Bulgarian farmers are expected to plant 10-15 per cent more sunflower crops as well as increasing wheat output.
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