1995 International Grains Agreement: Grains Trade Convention and Food Aid Convention

The rapporteur stated that by implementing a food aid policy the Union had often compromised the renewal of autonomous markets. Therefore, the populations that received food aid should be involved in the planning of this aid, and the Union should give preference to purchases from regional markets, without however changing the food habits of the populations or creating new dependencies. Finally, the rapporteur considered that it was important to establish control mechanisms, particularly in relation to food surpluses. Commissioner FISCHLER pointed out that in terms of food aid it was important for the Union to make every effort to ensure the security of supply. The Union and its Member States were committed to providing 1.755 million tonnes of food aid every year. In his opinion, the criticism that the Union’s policy of subsidies put pressure on the markets of the countries receiving food aid was unjustified.