AM: the domestic seed sector is a national strategic issue

By: STA Date: 2024. 11. 15. 09:30

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The domestic seed sector is a national strategic issue. High-quality domestic seeds and propagating materials fundamentally contribute to the long-term sustainability of domestic agricultural production – said Sándor Farkas, the Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture (AM) on Thursday at the opening of the 1st National Seed Management Conference in Szarvas, according to the ministry’s announcement.

(Photo: Pixabay)

The state secretary emphasized that the domestic seed sector also provides outstanding performance at the world level, it is a priority area of agriculture, and that is why it holds enormous potential. In the future, the range of varieties preferred by producers will change, so the demand for seeds may also change. Farmers are increasingly focusing on risk management and stabilizing yields, so the demand for varieties that are well adapted to different production environments and changing climatic conditions may increase. In addition, the rise of precision farming can further strengthen the demand for high-quality domestic seeds, he underlined. Sándor Farkas emphasized that support for more sustainable agricultural practices is expected within the framework of the Common Agricultural Policy, which gives priority to locally adapted varieties for seeds. The Ministry of Agriculture is committed to supporting the domestic seed sector, therefore within the framework of the KAP, the actors of the sector can receive funds based on a special call for tenders. He explained that a tender is currently being prepared, which, in addition to the development of the storage, drying and cleaning capacities of field crops, provides support for the establishment of seed production plants, as well as for the technological modernization of existing ones. The purpose of the tender is to create the conditions for seed production.

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In addition, European Union and domestic GMO regulations, as well as seed production and distribution standards may change in the coming years, which factors may also affect the availability and pricing of seeds. In order to meet the needs, plant breeding based on research and genetic development is extremely important, the state secretary added, according to the announcement.