The Romanian government has taken decisive action to support sheep and goat farmers facing dire circumstances due to unprecedented drought conditions. On February 20, 2025, authorities approved emergency financial assistance aimed at alleviating the burdens placed on livestock producers affected by adverse weather events from September 2023 to August 2024.
This new scheme is not just timely; it is critically needed. Farmers across the country have been struggling with the damaging effects of drought, which has severely limited their access to feed and resources necessary for sustaining their herds. Florin-Ionuț Barbu, the Minister of Agriculture, emphasized the immediacy of this situation, stating, “Through this emergency financial support, we are helping sheep and goat farmers who have been severely affected by the drought over the last year. The lack of feed resources and economic difficulties have placed immense pressure on farmers, and without rapid intervention, we risk witnessing drastic reductions in livestock numbers and major imbalances in the agricultural market.”
Under this new assistance program, eligible farmers will receive grants of 248 lei (approximately €50) for every young female sheep or goat they own, with the program extending support for herds ranging from 50 to 300 animals. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, this financial aid is structured to provide much-needed relief and is part of broader efforts to stabilize the agricultural sector during challenging times.
The financial backing for this initiative comprises approximately 238,795,200 lei overall (around €48 million). Notably, this amount includes €21.6 million from the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund and around €26.4 million sourced from the Romanian state budget for the year 2025—an assurance from the government to keep the agricultural community afloat during tough times.
Farmers wishing to tap this financial lifeline will need to act quickly, as applications must be submitted within 20 working days following the authorization of these funds. Barbu clarified the eligibility requirements, stating, “Applicants need to possess at least 50 young female sheep or goats registered within the national database as of August 31, 2024. This measure aims to support sustainable practices within the sector and bolster rural economies.”
The announcement has been met with relief among livestock farmers who have been observing their operations at risk of collapse due to natural disasters. Reports indicate many were finding it increasingly difficult to maintain their herds without efficient interventions and aid. The legislated support is seen not only as financial assistance but as recognition of the agricultural sector's importance to Romania's economy and food security.
Farmers, already feeling the strain from fluctuated market conditions caused by the drought, are hopeful this assistance will help them obtain the necessary feed and sustain their operations. With farm visits highlighting the precarious situations of many households, Barbu's assurance of government support is both reassuring and necessary.
This measure is part of the government's broader commitment to ensuring the vitality of Romania's agricultural sector. Barbu reiterated, “The Ministry of Agriculture remains dedicated to implement effective solutions, ensuring stability within the livestock sector.”
While this emergency funding is undoubtedly an important step forward, it also signals the government's awareness of the growing impact of climate change on agriculture, as farmers increasingly face challenges like drought and flooding. With climate unpredictability becoming the new norm, such initiatives may become ever more prevalent. The situation serves as both a wake-up call and motivation for agricultural adaptation and sustainability efforts.
Through governmental aid and support, sheep and goat farmers have been granted hope for recovery. Times remain tough, but with the right resources, they might just pull through this challenging period. For now, the urgency of this aid could mean the difference between survival and decline for many dedicated farmers across Romania.
For any farmers interested, this support is not merely about financial aid but about resilience and continuity within the agricultural community, guiding efforts toward recovery and sustainable practices. Let us see how the outcomes of these initiatives play out as we collectively seek to navigate through these significant agricultural challenges.