The Fair Trade Advocacy Office (FTAO) welcomes the European Commission’s initiative to update the EU Bioeconomy Strategy and highlights the need for a strong international dimension. In our feedback to the public consultation, we call for the Strategy to recognise the crucial role of imported biological resources, and the farmers and workers who produce them.

Our recommendations focus on ensuring living incomes and fair value distribution along global supply chains, supporting smallholders’ transition to sustainable practices, and simplifying compliance with EU regulations such as the Organic Regulation and Deforestation Regulation. We also propose practical tools, like an “Agroecology & Fair Livelihoods” funding window under the EU's Global Gateway investment strategy, as well as EU commodity roadmaps to help ensure that the bioeconomy delivers for both people and the planet.

The FTAO stands ready to support the European Commission in building a fairer, more resilient, and globally responsible EU bioeconomy.

Read the full feedback here.