José Manuel Bolieiro strengthens "commitment" to agricultural sector and guarantees continuity of support - Communication

Presidência do Governo Regional

The President of the Regional Government, José Manuel Bolieiro, received today in audience the new governing bodies of the São Miguel Agricultural Association (AASM) and the União Agrícola Cooperative (CUA), led by Jorge Rita. These are fundamental entities in the defence and development of the regional agricultural sector. 

The head of the Azorean Government highlighted the strategic role played by these institutions, praising their work towards the sustainability and promotion of agriculture in the Azores.

"I would like to express my gratitude for the competence and work carried out, which has been fundamental to the sustainability of our agricultural entrepreneurs," he said. The President of the Government also emphasised that "the recognition of the quality and excellence of the value chain resulting from agrifood products is due to the excellence of the work carried out." 

José Manuel Bolieiro assured that agriculture remains a priority in the Azorean Government's budgetary framework. He guaranteed that "support will be maintained" and that "there will be no return to apportionments,"  alluding to measures adopted by previous governments that led to a reduction in agricultural aid.

He emphasised that the stability and predictability of financial support are essential to ensure the continuity and development of the sector. 

The Regional Government has been in constant dialogue with the European Union to ensure that POSEI funds, a programme to support agricultural production in the outermost regions, are increased.

"We are working to ensure that POSEI has sufficient resources to guarantee fair and due support for the regional productive economy," José Manuel Bolieiro explained, adding that the Portuguese state will grant approximately 16 million euros in funding for 2025. 

During the meeting, a commitment was also made to hold regular meetings to ensure close monitoring of the sector's needs and the predictability of financial support payments.

"Commitments are to be kept," the President of the Regional Government reiterated, emphasising the importance of predictability and consistency in agricultural policies. 

Jorge Rita, who was recently re-elected for his last term as head of the AASM and CUA, considered the meeting productive and was satisfied with the guarantees provided by the Azorean government.

"The Government continues to be an essential partner for farmers," he said, stressing the importance of dialogue between the sector's representative bodies and the Azorean Government. 

The meeting took place with a supportive attitude, reinforcing the cooperation between the Regional Government and Azorean farmers at a time when the sector's stability and consolidation are fundamental for the regional economy.