The Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Forestry has requested the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Development that the small family farming statute, whose public discussion ends today, be applied in the Azores.
 
"The proposal under public discussion should have a wider scope in order to comprise the Autonomous Region of the Azores, namely with regard to the exclusive powers of the National Government. This is the case of tax or Social Security matters, "João Ponte said, adding that the Region, in due time, will adapt the legal document in accordance with regional specificities.
 
According to the Ministry, the new Small Family Farming Statute should enter into force by March. It will enforce rights such as priority access to EU funds and a more favourable tax scheme for these farmers, among other things.
 
"We believe that, in the specific case of the Azores, small agricultural production in a family context is very important and relevant, both socially and economically. Hence, it is fully justified that the measures implemented in the proposed small family farming statute be applied to the Azores," said the Regional Secretary.
 
João Ponte stressed that the inclusion of the Azores in this statute will reduce difficulties and stimulate this type of activity, making it more attractive and dynamic for new generations. In addition, it will also contribute to mitigate the desertification of rural areas.
 
The Regional Secretary added the Government requested the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Development that the national commission responsible for monitoring the implementation of a new statute should include a representative of the Regional Government, with expertise in this area, given its importance in the regional context.
 
The new small family farming statute aims to recognise and distinguish the specificity this type of activity in its economic, territorial and environmental dimensions as well as to promote adequate public policies that contribute to mitigate the desertification of the inland territories.
 
In addition, it is intended to promote sustainable farming and enhance the strategic value of small family farming.