The present and future of small farmers in the European Union: Italy’s scenario

Using the data gathered by the AGEA (Italian coordinating body and paying agency) of the CAP payment system for the financial year 2009, and by the DG AGRI on the direct payment financial year 2009 as a case study, this paper explores the current status of small farmers concerning the CAP scheme for direct payments, and the strategy actions to be taken into account for the CAP reform towards 2020. The current official positions of the European Commission and the European Parliament are also presented as proposals to establish a simplified scheme for small farmers under the future CAP reform. An analysis shows that the majority of small farmers applying for direct payments are located in Italy, Poland and Romania.