Eligible farmers may submit claims for financial assistance in light of livestock illnesses - Compensation available for farmers affected by livestock illnesses
Brandenburg farmers impacted by the recent outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) can now apply for compensation, jointly funded by the European Union (EU) and the state of Brandenburg. The disease, which was discovered in a water buffalo herd in Hönow, Märkisch-Oderland district, Brandenburg in January 2025, triggered restrictions and control measures to contain the spread.
The compensation covers the culling or destruction of infected animals, biosecurity measures, and income losses due to trade restrictions and market disruptions. The EU provides financial support through its Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and specific animal health funds, while the state government supplements this to ensure timely aid to farmers and maintain compliance with disease control protocols.
Around 4.7 million euros from the EU's agricultural reserve and approximately 3.2 million euros from the state of Brandenburg are available for compensation payments. Agriculture Minister Hanka Mittelstaedt (SPD) stated that the compensation process has been prompt and as unbureaucratic as possible.
Dairy and pig farms in Brandenburg can apply for compensation from the Investment Bank of the State of Brandenburg (ILB) due to financial losses from the outbreak. The compensation is aimed at helping businesses affected by the outbreak of hoof-and-mouth disease to recover financially.
Since mid-April, Germany has again been declared free of hoof-and-mouth disease. The viral disease was a rare occurrence in Germany, marking the first time it had broken out in decades. Transport bans and trade restrictions were implemented during the outbreak.
The compensation payments are a result of the complex application process in Brussels. Despite the complexity, Minister Mittelstaedt emphasised the importance of supporting farmers during challenging times, stating, "We are doing everything we can to help affected farmers recover from the financial impact of this disease."
The EU's approach to FMD outbreaks in member states like Germany typically involves co-funding compensation schemes with the relevant member state. This approach aims to support farmers economically and control the spread of disease.
The European Union's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and specific animal health funds are collaborating with the state of Brandenburg to fund a compensation scheme for farmers affected by the outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). The compensation is not only for the culling or destruction of infected animals, but also for biosecurity measures and income losses due to trade restrictions and market disruptions.
In addition, the EU approach to FMD outbreaks in member states like Germany typically includes co-funding compensation schemes, aimed at supporting farmers economically and controlling the spread of disease, while also emphasizing support for health-and-wellness, as the outbreak necessitates diligent science-based medical-condition management within the community policy framework.
