Actors in the fish farming sector can apply for several billion forints

(Photo: AM/Tibor Vermes)

The deputy state secretary said that farmers can still apply for about HUF four billion from the currently running program, since the goal of the Ministry of Agriculture is to stabilize the situation of Hungarian fish production and maintain the security of Hungarian fish supply. The recent rise in feed prices, the Russian-Ukrainian war, the failed Brussels sanctions and last year’s drought had such a serious impact on Hungarian fish production that the Hungarian Fish Farming Operative Program (MAHOP) developed a crisis support scheme with a budget of HUF 3.1 billion and announced by the Ministry of Agriculture.

During the half-day workshop, the application submission interface was discussed in detail

The purpose of the professional day was not only to discuss the needs of the sector, but also to answer the questions related to the submission of applications, so that gaps can be avoided and, after a quick assessment, the grants can be paid this year.

The second part of the day was about the Hungarian Fisheries Operational Program Plusz (MAHOP Plusz)

And within this, about the large amount of resources for the next period, since domestic fish farmers can get serious support opportunities in the next period as well. In the new development cycle, around HUF 20 billion will ensure the renewal of the sector and increase its competitiveness. The goal of MAHOP Plusz is to support micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, to increase the competitiveness and sustainability of fish production and processing through innovation and digitalization while reducing the environmental impact. An important aspect is the support of climate- and environment-friendly farming methods, the increase of the proportion of methods based on the principle of circular farming within the production systems, and the maintenance and development of the species diversity of water and wetland habitats. The announcement of the first calls is expected in the first half of 2024. In conclusion, György Zsolt Papp said that in view of the success of the professional workshop, in the future they also plan to open a common communication interface with farmers and applicants in the KAP Strategic Plan, which can be presented as a continuation of the Rural Development Program, similar to the current one, through which they can get to know each other in a timely and personal manner. with them the tender calls and criteria for the new period, so that as many people as possible can benefit from it.

AM