2nd meeting of the Thematic Group on Effective Approaches for Simplification within the CAP

The second meeting of this Thematic Group (TG) started with feedback from the informal exchanges held since the first meeting, through which TG members continued identifying simplification options in relation to the use of digital tools, controls, calculation and controls of costs for non-IACS interventions, and coordination in regionalised Member States.

Representatives of the European Commission - DG AGRI shared useful insights on the 2nd CAP Simplification Package and an outlook on the forthcoming 3rd Simplification Package, which is expected to be published by the end of 2025.

A dynamic fishbowl discussion allowed participants to identify key areas for simplification and better coherence across regulatory frameworks outside the CAP. Key elements for consideration included the importance of addressing overlaps and streamlining requirements between different regulations, harmonising definitions and sampling requirements between different regulations, extending the principle of one single control per year and farm, and simplifying the authorisation procedures of different substances (while keeping safeguarding standards high). The discussion also touched upon social conditionality.

During two consecutive interactive sessions, participants discussed specific outstanding issues requiring simplification, shared national experiences and proposed concrete solutions. The aim was to fine-tune the most promising solutions, explore their feasibility, and identify key actors responsible for their implementation. The discussion looked at CAP governance, controls, digital solutions, and creating a supporting environment.