Skip to content
EU Parl Watch

opinion parliamentary committee, 5 May 2026

On the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the European Competitiveness Fund ('ECF’), including the specific programme for defence research and innovation activities, repealing Regulations (EU) 2021/522, (EU) 2021/694, , (EU) 2021/697, (EU) 2021/783, and amending Regulations (EU) 2021/696, (EU) 2023/588, (EU)

Document AGRI-AD-782312 · (COM(2025)0555 – C100165/2025 – 2025/0555(COD))

Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development · Rapporteur: Carlo Fidanza

On Parliament’s site PDF Word

Full text

Jump to an amendment (138)
Short justification 563 paragraphs

Alongside income support provided through the earmarked budget chapter within the Single Fund and the flexibilities granted to Member States to strengthen the CAP budget, safeguarding the common nature of the Common Agricultural Policy requires a decisive strengthening of the European dimension of interventions. In this context, food security and food sovereignty must be recognised as strategic priorities for the Union and, as such, require a specific approach within the Competitiveness Fund of the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), supported by dedicated and clearly identified resources.

The Competitiveness Fund represents the most appropriate instrument to finance projects of European interest that go beyond the intervention capacity of individual Member States and are essential to strengthening the overall resilience of the Union’s agri-food system. In particular, targeted investments in water resilience are needed, including actions aimed at increasing storage capacity and ensuring the sustainable management of water resources, improving the efficiency of irrigation systems, and guaranteeing the availability of sufficient quantities of water of adequate quality. Such investments are an indispensable condition for safeguarding agricultural production and European agri-food excellence in a context of growing climate pressures.

At the same time, the Competitiveness Fund should provide structural support for the digitalisation of the agricultural sector, as a key lever to enhance environmental sustainability, productive efficiency and the adaptive capacity of farms. European investments in precision agriculture, digital services, decision-support systems and data infrastructures would make it possible to reduce the use of production inputs, optimise natural resources and ensure equitable access to innovation across all EU territories, thereby avoiding new forms of fragmentation.

Finally, it is strategic to allocate, within the Competitiveness Fund, dedicated resources to the development of strategic storage capacities for agricultural products and essential raw materials. Such investments would concretely strengthen the Union’s food security, reduce dependence on external suppliers and increase the EU’s ability to respond to sudden crises. In an increasingly unstable geopolitical context, the availability and control of food resources constitute a central element of economic resilience and of the Union’s overall security and defence capacity.

In conclusion, integrating objectives and instruments dedicated to food security and food sovereignty within the Competitiveness Fund of the MFF is essential to preserve the common nature of the CAP, strengthen the Union’s strategic autonomy, and ensure the long-term competitiveness and sustainability of the European agri-food system.

AMENDMENT

The Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development submits the following to the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy, as the committee responsible:

Amendment 1

Proposal for a regulation

Citation 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 43(2), Article 168(5), Article 172, first subparagraph, Article 173(3), first subparagraph, Article 175, first subparagraph, Article 182(4), Article 183 in conjunction with Article 188, second paragraph, Article 189(2), Article 192(1), Article 194(2), Article 212(2) and Article 322(1), point (a), thereof,Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 43(2), Article 168(5), Article 172, first subparagraph, Article 173(3), first subparagraph, Article 175, first subparagraph, Article 182(4), Article 183 in conjunction with Article 188, second paragraph, Article 189(2), Article 192(1), Article 194(2), Article 212(2), Article 322(1), point (a), and Article 349 thereof,

Amendment 2

Read the rest (551 paragraphs)

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(2) The Union is facing a defining period for its future, from a political, economic, social, environmental, climate and security perspective, including increased risks of conventional military threats. The Draghi report on the future of European Competitiveness3 presented a new vision to reignite sustainable growth in Europe. The Letta report4 outlined that Europe must leverage its Single Market to achieve a leadership position in the global competition. The Commission communication on the Competitiveness Compass5 provided a roadmap for boosting competitiveness, building on the recommendations of these reports. The Commission communication on the Clean Industrial Deal6 outlined the need to accelerate decarbonisation, reindustrialisation and innovation, bringing together climate action and competitiveness under one overarching growth. Sectorial Industrial Action Plans, such as Automotive, Steel and Metals and Chemicals aim to ensure the long-term competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience of the European industry. The State of the Digital decade 20257 highlights the urgent need to foster cooperation and increase public and private investments for strengthening Union’s digital leadership, sovereignty and inclusiveness. The Joint White Paper on European Defence Readiness8 underlines the need to massively and rapidly reinvest in defence in support of Europe’s freedom of action. Moreover, the priorities of the Economic Security Strategy further underline the crucial need to secure the Union’s technological edge and de-risk economic relations including by enhancing the resilience of supply chains and thereby reducing dependencies on others. The European Ocean Pact outlines the need to enhance competitiveness and accelerate the strategic transition across the blue economy sectors, focussing especially on decarbonisation and scaling up innovation. As outlined in the Commission Communication on the Road to the next MFF,9 the next Union long-term budget needs to be more focused, simpler, more flexible, and predictable and better deliver on the Union priorities, including bolstering the Union competitiveness.(2) The Union is facing a defining period for its future, from a political, economic, social, environmental, climate and security perspective, including increased risks of conventional military threats. The Draghi report on the future of European Competitiveness3 presented a new vision to reignite sustainable growth in Europe. The Letta report4 outlined that Europe must leverage its Single Market to achieve a leadership position in the global competition. The Niinistö report emphasised the need for an integrated approach to the Union’s security, including the strengthening of supply chains through their diversification. The Commission communication on the Competitiveness Compass5 provided a roadmap for boosting competitiveness, building on the recommendations of these reports. The Commission communication on the Clean Industrial Deal6 outlined the need to accelerate decarbonisation, reindustrialisation and innovation, as part of an overarching growth strategy to strengthen the Union’s competitiveness. Sectorial Industrial Action Plans, such as Automotive, Steel and Metals and Chemicals aim to ensure the long-term competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience of the European industry. The State of the Digital decade 20257 highlights the urgent need to foster cooperation and increase public and private investments for strengthening Union’s digital leadership, sovereignty and inclusiveness. The Joint White Paper on European Defence Readiness8 underlines the need to massively and rapidly reinvest in defence in support of Europe’s freedom of action. Moreover, the priorities of the Economic Security Strategy further underline the crucial need to secure the Union’s technological edge and de-risk economic relations including by enhancing the resilience of supply chains and thereby reducing dependencies on others. The European Ocean Pact outlines the need to enhance competitiveness and accelerate the strategic transition across the blue economy sectors, focussing especially on decarbonisation and scaling up innovation. As outlined in the Commission Communication on the Road to the next MFF,9 the next Union long-term budget needs to be more focused, simpler, more flexible, and predictable and better deliver on the Union priorities, including bolstering the Union competitiveness.
3 The future of European competitiveness: Report by Mario Draghi, September 2024, https://commission.europa.eu/topics/eu-competitiveness/draghi-report_en3 The future of European competitiveness: Report by Mario Draghi, September 2024, https://commission.europa.eu/topics/eu-competitiveness/draghi-report_en
4 Enrico Letta's Report on the Future of the Single Market, April 2024, https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/ny3j24sm/much-more-than-a-market-report-by-enrico-letta.pdf.4 Enrico Letta's Report on the Future of the Single Market, April 2024, https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/ny3j24sm/much-more-than-a-market-report-by-enrico-letta.pdf.
5 Competitiveness compass - European Commission5 Competitiveness compass - European Commission
6 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the European Council, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions, The Clean Industrial Deal: A joint roadmap for competitiveness and decarbonisation, COM(2025) 85 final, 26.2.2025.6 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the European Council, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions, The Clean Industrial Deal: A joint roadmap for competitiveness and decarbonisation, COM(2025) 85 final, 26.2.2025.
7 COM(2025) 290 final State of the Digital Decade 2025: Keep building the EU's sovereignty and digital future.7 COM(2025) 290 final State of the Digital Decade 2025: Keep building the EU's sovereignty and digital future.
8 Joint Communication to the European Parliament, the European Council and the Council on ‘European Economic Security Strategy’, JOIN(2023) 20 final, 20.6.2023.8 Joint Communication to the European Parliament, the European Council and the Council on ‘European Economic Security Strategy’, JOIN(2023) 20 final, 20.6.2023.
9 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the European Council, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions, The road to the next multiannual financial framework, COM(2025) 46 final, 11.2.2025.9 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the European Council, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions, The road to the next multiannual financial framework, COM(2025) 46 final, 11.2.2025.

Amendment 3

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 3

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(3) To regain and reinforce its competitive edge, it is essential that the Union revives the innovation cycle by developing its disruptive innovation capacity and investing in emerging, cutting-edge and strategic technologies with significant economic potential. To ensure its autonomy in the global economy, the Union should guarantee its technological and industrial leadership in strategic sectors, starting with critical raw materials supply chains, to develop and manufacture strategic technologies in Europe, as well as mitigate risks affecting its security and resilience emanating from critical external dependencies. This can be done by addressing market failures and suboptimal investment situations, in a proportionate manner and without crowding out private funding, considering the high investment needs for delivering on Union priorities, including for decarbonisation and the digital transition. Greater emphasis should be put on leveraging private sector participation by improving the use of risk-sharing mechanisms between Union funds and private investors, to ensure an efficient use of public funding. This will build upon and further amplify the impact of the progress achieved on the Savings and Investment Union, which will provide the necessary regulatory landscape for private investments to thrive. The use of any additional national resources is without prejudice to the application of Articles 107 and 108 TFEU.(3) To regain and reinforce its competitive edge, it is essential that the Union revives the innovation cycle by developing its disruptive innovation capacity and investing in emerging, cutting-edge and strategic technologies with significant economic potential, including those applicable to the agri-food sector as a strategic sector for the Union’s autonomy, security and resilience. To ensure its autonomy in the global economy, the Union should guarantee its technological and industrial leadership in strategic sectors, starting with critical raw materials supply chains and key agri-food value chains to develop and manufacture strategic technologies in Europe, as well as mitigate risks affecting all aspects of its security, including food security, and resilience emanating from critical external dependencies and strengthen the Union’s resilience to future risks and shocks. This can be done by addressing market failures and suboptimal investment situations, in a proportionate manner and without crowding out private funding, considering the high investment needs for delivering on Union priorities, including for decarbonisation, the digital transition. Greater emphasis should be put on leveraging private sector participation, including by SMEs and farms, by improving the use of risk-sharing mechanisms between Union funds and private investors, to ensure an efficient use of public funding. This will build upon and further amplify the impact of the progress achieved on the Savings and Investment Union, which will provide the necessary regulatory landscape for private investments to thrive. The use of any additional national resources is without prejudice to the application of Articles 107 and 108 TFEU.

Amendment 4

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 6

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(6) Digital connectivity is crucial to foster collaboration within the ecosystem, accelerating innovation, enabling seamless and secure access to critical digital capacities and solutions across the Union, facilitating cross-border public-private partnerships, and fostering interoperability and cost-effectiveness.(6) Digital connectivity is crucial to foster collaboration within the ecosystem, accelerating innovation, enabling seamless, secure and resilient access to critical digital capacities and solutions across the Union including for agriculture and rural areas. It should facilitate cross-border public-private partnerships and foster interoperability and cost-effectiveness, while addressing persistent connectivity gaps in agricultural, rural and remote areas and outermost regions, where “white areas” with insufficient coverage limit the competitiveness, innovation capacity and digital uptake of the agri-food sector, undermine cohesion and territorial convergence, and therefore require measures to ensure equal access to digital opportunities, support local economies and prevent territorial fragmentation.

Amendment 5

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 8

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(8) In the EU, persistent disparities in competitiveness and innovation performance across regions continue to exist. After sustained efforts at both EU and national level to close the innovation gap, it is time to unlock the full potential of every region. By ensuring that less-developed regions are effectively connected to EU value chains, the Union as a whole will be better positioned to compete globally.(8) Persistent disparities in competitiveness and innovation performance continue to exist across Union regions, particularly in rural, agricultural and coastal areas hosting key primary production activities and a significant share of the Union’s bio-based value chains. After sustained efforts at both EU and national levels to close the innovation gap, it is time to unlock the full potential of every region, while ensuring that competitiveness does not come at the expense of less-developed regions and strengthens rather than marginalises communities in rural areas. By ensuring that less-developed regions and rural areas are effectively connected to EU value chains, the Union as a whole will be better positioned to compete globally, while recognising the strategic role of eastern border regions subject to specific geopolitical and market pressures in the context of the security and supply chain risks. To maximise the economic and social impact of the Fund and strengthen the Single Market, support should contribute to a fair territorial distribution of investment across Member States, taking account of regional diversity. Work programmes and support instruments should reflect differences in regional capacities so that investments benefit all regions.

Amendment 6

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 9

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(9) The EU outermost regions and overseas countries and territories represent unique and strategic assets that benefit the Union as a whole – including proximity to third countries, exceptional conditions for space and astrophysics research, abundant renewable energy potential, rich biodiversity, and extensive maritime zones. The ECF should leverage their potential as geostrategic outposts, particularly in support of the Union’s objectives on security, preparedness, regional value chains, and competitiveness.(9) The EU outermost regions, overseas countries and territories represent unique and strategic assets that benefit the Union as a whole – including in areas such as agricultural production, food supply and local, agri-food value chains, and through their proximity to third countries. They also offer exceptional conditions for space and astrophysics research, deep-sea observation, and renewable energy development, alongside high potential to support the cultivation of agricultural species that cannot be optimally developed in continental Europe, rich biodiversity, and extensive maritime zones. The ECF should leverage their potential as geostrategic outposts, particularly in support of the Union’s objectives on security, preparedness, regional value chains, and competitiveness.

Amendment 7

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 10

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(10) The Commission should ensure tight coordination and synergies between all Union founding sources in the MFF. For this purpose, the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation will be tightly linked to the ECF: to ensure that the European industry leverages research results funded by the Union to further innovate and produce in Europe. In order to foster synergies, the work programmes adopted under this Regulation should integrate in a specific and dedicated part and ensure coherence with the ‘Competitiveness’ component, Part II ‘Competitiveness and Society’ of the Regulation (EU) [XXX]10 of the European Parliament and of the Council [Horizon Europe Framework programme for Research and Innovation]11 in accordance with the committee procedure set out in this Regulation. Besides, the ECF shall ensure coherence with the types of actions planned to be implemented under the Innovation Fund, notably when developing work programmes.(10) The Commission should ensure tight coordination and synergies between all Union founding sources in the MFF, including under the CAP and the Common Market Organisation, to guarantee complementarity and support agri-food investments beyond income support. For this purpose, the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation will be tightly linked to the ECF: to ensure that the European industry and the primary sector leverage research results funded by the Union to further innovate and produce in Europe. In order to foster synergies, the work programmes adopted under this Regulation should integrate in a specific and dedicated part and ensure coherence with the ‘Competitiveness’ component, Part II ‘Competitiveness and Society’ of the Regulation (EU) [XXX]10 of the European Parliament and of the Council [Horizon Europe Framework programme for Research and Innovation]11 in accordance with the committee procedure set out in this Regulation. Besides, the ECF should ensure coherence with the types of actions planned to be implemented under the Innovation Fund, notably when developing work programmes.
10 OJ L.., p10 OJ L.., p
11 COM(2025) 54311 COM(2025) 543

Amendment 8

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 10 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(10a) In ensuring coherence between the ECF and the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, it is essential to preserve academic freedom and to support both bottom-up and top-down approaches, while ensuring an appropriate balance between fundamental and applied research. Both forms of research are critical to strengthening the Union’s long-term competitiveness, innovation capacity and technological leadership.

Amendment 9

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 11

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(11) In order to foster synergies between actions under the ECF and the Innovation Fund, the work programmes of the ECF should ensure coherence with the priorities and types of actions that could be funded under the Innovation Fund. Together, the ECF, Horizon Europe, and the Innovation Fund will provide coherent support to the Union competitiveness.(11) In order to foster synergies between actions under the ECF and the Innovation Fund, the work programmes of the ECF should ensure coherence with the priorities and types of actions that could be funded under the Innovation Fund. Together, the ECF, Horizon Europe, and the Innovation Fund will provide coherent support to the Union’s competitiveness, for technologies and projects contributing to agriculture as well as sustainable and competitive agri-food systems.

Amendment 10

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 11 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(11a) To enhance the Union’s competitiveness, the ECF should facilitate access to funding for companies that generate valuable patents and other intellectual property, as well as those seeking to acquire, license or develop such results.

Amendment 11

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 12

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(12) Moreover, to foresee a strong connection with the Competitiveness Coordination Tool, the work programme of the ECF should ensure coherence with the selected projects and competitiveness priorities identified under the Tool.(12) Moreover, to foresee a strong connection with the Competitiveness Coordination Tool, the work programme of the ECF should ensure clarity and coherence with the selected projects and competitiveness priorities identified under this Tool, which must include the agricultural sector.

Amendment 12

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 14

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(14) The ECF should use the whole toolbox of Union budget to unlock additional public and private investments, in particular from institutional investors throughout the whole investment journey. It should contribute to creating an “investment culture” by better leveraging public funds and the de-risking potential of the Union budget. It will maximise the added value of Union action and crowd-in private capital to secure a competitive innovation and industrial base, also by using innovative funding instruments including public-private co-investment with asymmetric risk returns. In this regard, the use of financial instruments that crowd in private investors should be the privileged option wherever possible.(14) The ECF should use the whole toolbox of Union budget with instruments adapted to sectors such as agriculture characterised by fragmented structures and limited access to private capital, to unlock additional public and private investments, in particular from institutional investors throughout the whole investment journey. It should contribute to creating an “investment culture” by better leveraging public funds and the de-risking potential of the Union budget. It will maximise the added value of Union action and crowd-in private capital to secure a competitive innovation and industrial base, also by using innovative funding instruments including public-private co-investment with asymmetric risk returns. In this regard, the use of financial instruments that crowd in private investors should be the privileged option wherever possible.

Amendment 13

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 17

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(17) The ECF should facilitate access to funding from Union programmes through user-centric, fast, simpler and harmonised procedures and improve coherence among Union instruments and with Member States investments. The ECF should put beneficiaries of Union funding, and notably industry, SMEs, start-ups and scale-ups, including those established under the upcoming 28th regime, at the centre of the design of Union funding instruments.(17) The ECF should facilitate access to funding from Union programmes through user-centric, fast, simpler and harmonised procedures and improve coherence among Union instruments and with Member States investments. Access to ECF support should be organised through a single digital entry point acting as a one-stop shop for applicants. The ECF should put beneficiaries of Union funding, and notably industry, SMEs, in particular agricultural SMEs, cooperatives and producer organisations, as well as start-ups and scale-ups, including those established under the upcoming 28th regime, at the centre of the design of Union funding instruments.

Amendment 14

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 18

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(18) The ECF should operate through four policy windows that mirror Union’s key policy priorities: Clean Transition and Industrial Decarbonisation; Digital Leadership; Health, Biotech, Agriculture and Bioeconomy;Resilience and Security, Defence industry and Space.(18) The ECF should operate through four policy windows that mirror Union’s key policy priorities, ensuring balanced resourcing and preventing the pursuit of one priority to the detriment of the others: Clean Transition, Industrial and Fishing Sector Decarbonisation; Digital Leadership; Health, Biotech, Agriculture, Food Production, Food Security and Bioeconomy; Resilience and Security, Defence industry and Space.

Amendment 15

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 18 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(18a) Within the ‘Health, Biotech, Agriculture, Food Production, Food Security and Bioeconomy’ window, the ECF should ensure a coherent framework for supporting agriculture and the food sector, integrating objectives related to competitiveness, food security and sustainability, while preserving the common character of the CAP. Funding for agriculture and rural development should remain identifiable, predictable and ring-fenced.

Amendment 16

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 18 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(18b) The Union’s competitiveness depends on preserving diverse farming models, including traditional systems and family farms, which support cultural heritage, social cohesion and food production. The ECF should support agricultural innovation and the development of sustainable production systems, while ensuring a clear European dimension and giving priority to Union-based actors, in order to strengthen European know-how, innovation capacity and production.

Amendment 17

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 19

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(19) Infrastructure is an essential enabler for European competitiveness. Investments in infrastructure are a necessary condition for the proper functioning of the EU's single market, the green and digital transition and for increasing the Union’s resilience and security. For example, the trans-European transport network fosters sustainable forms of transport, promotes improved multimodal and interoperable digital and transport solutions, thereby contributing to a smooth functioning of the internal market. The trans-European networks for energy are key for a genuine Energy Union to enable the Union’s energy and climate objectives by connecting Union countries’ electricity and clean energy networks to ensure our energy independence and competitiveness. For this, the development of cross-border interconnectors, domestic transmission and distribution grids is essential. The ECF support will work in coherence and complementarity with the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF). It is essential for Europe’s competitiveness to provide for synergies between the development of trans-European networks in energy and transport with strong cross-border impact supported by CEF, and investment support for the decarbonisation, modernisation and expansion of transport, energy and digital infrastructure under ECF.(19) Infrastructure is an essential enabler for European competitiveness. Investments in infrastructure are a necessary condition for the proper functioning of the EU's single market, and for increasing the Union’s resilience and security. For example, the trans-European transport network fosters sustainable forms of transport, promotes improved multimodal and interoperable digital and transport solutions, thereby contributing to a smooth functioning of the internal market. The trans-European networks for energy are key for a genuine Energy Union to enable the Union’s energy objectives by connecting Union countries’ electricity and clean energy networks to ensure our energy independence and competitiveness. For this, the development of cross-border interconnectors, domestic transmission and distribution grids is essential. Growing congestion in electricity and heating networks requires targeted investments, particularly at local level, including contributions from the agricultural sector, such as decentralised renewable energy production, provided that the necessary grid and storage capacities are in place. The ECF support will work in coherence and complementarity with the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF). It is essential for Europe’s competitiveness to provide for synergies between the development of trans-European networks in energy and transport with strong cross-border impact supported by CEF, and investment support for the decarbonisation, modernisation and expansion of transport, energy and digital infrastructure under ECF.

Amendment 18

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 21

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(21) The competitive strength of the Union lies in its people. The Competitiveness Compass identifies promoting skills and quality jobs as a horizontal enabler. The European Council Conclusions highlight that “following the Commission communication of 5 March 2025 on a Union of Skills, further efforts should be made to enhance the acquisition, recognition and retention of skills across the EU, from the building of basic skills to engaging in life-long learning, reskilling and upskilling, in line with the European Pillar of Social Rights and its Action Plan”. A strong dialogue is part of this. Human capital is key to the prosperity of the Union, its economic resilience and unique social market economy. It is essential to foster prosperity, including high quality jobs, by boosting productivity growth, making Union industries more competitive and innovative, attracting additional investments, and supporting a dynamic single market and enhanced economic security. The ECF should contribute to the Union of Skills12 by supporting the development of a skilled workforce equipped with the specific skills needed in the strategic investment areas of the Fund, through life-long learning, education, training projects and apprenticeships, and the creation of attractive quality jobs accessible to all and by accompanying ECF investments with skills investment to alleviate skills shortages in the given strategic sector of the ECF and indicate when it is included. This includes a Skills Guarantee that should enable workers in sectors undergoing restructuring to upskill and reskill, in line with relevant national, regional and/or sectoral transition strategies. The ECF should support skills intelligence, upskilling and reskilling, and foster public-private partnerships between universities, VET providers, businesses, in particular SMEs, social partners and applied research institutes. The ECF could also support activities of University Alliances, also in cooperation with employers, to improve their delivery on innovation and the development of skills and talent.(21) The competitive strength of the Union lies in its people. The Competitiveness Compass identifies promoting skills and quality jobs as a horizontal enabler. The European Council Conclusions highlight that “following the Commission communication of 5 March 2025 on a Union of Skills, further efforts should be made to enhance the acquisition, recognition and retention of skills across the EU, from the building of basic skills to engaging in life-long learning, reskilling and upskilling, in line with the European Pillar of Social Rights and its Action Plan”. A strong dialogue is part of this. Human capital is key to the prosperity of the Union, its economic resilience and unique social market economy. It is essential to foster prosperity, including high quality jobs, by boosting productivity growth, making Union industries more competitive and innovative, attracting additional investments, and supporting a dynamic single market and enhanced economic security. The ECF should contribute to the Union of Skills12 by supporting the development of a skilled workforce equipped with the specific skills needed in the strategic investment areas of the Fund, including digital skills for strategic sectors such as agriculture and agri-food sector, through life-long learning, education, training projects and apprenticeships, and the creation of attractive quality jobs accessible to all and by accompanying ECF investments with skills investment to alleviate skills shortages in the given strategic sector of the ECF and indicate when it is included. This includes a Skills Guarantee that should enable workers in sectors undergoing restructuring to upskill and reskill, in line with relevant national, regional and/or sectoral transition strategies. The ECF should support skills intelligence, upskilling and reskilling, and foster public-private partnerships between universities, VET providers, businesses, in particular SMEs, social partners and applied research institutes. The ECF could also support activities of University Alliances, also in cooperation with employers, to improve their delivery on innovation and the development of skills and talent and accelerate the uptake of research and innovation outcomes, including in agriculture, food systems, forestry and the bioeconomy.
12 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the European Council, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions, The Union of Skills, COM(2025) 90 final, 5.3.2025.12 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the European Council, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions, The Union of Skills, COM(2025) 90 final, 5.3.2025.

Amendment 19

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 21 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(21a) Generational renewal in agriculture and rural areas is essential for food security, resilience and competitiveness of the Union. The ECF should support young farmers and new entrants, in particular under the ‘Health, Biotech, Agriculture, Food Production, Food Security and Bioeconomy’ window, through targeted measures including access to finance, investment, innovation, skills development and advisory services, notably in relation to farm succession and the uptake of sustainable and digital models, while contributing to attractiveness of the sector and facilitating entry into farming.

Amendment 20

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 22

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(22) The ECF should contribute to the objectives of decarbonising the European industry by promoting the development and deployment of clean technologies. The ECF will support the implementation of the Clean Industrial Deal, turning the clean transition and decarbonisation into a driver of growth and competitiveness for European industries. To this end, the ECF will support decarbonisation with a technology neutral approach, while recognising a contribution of different technologies to grid balancing and sector coupling, to align in particular with the investment needs of energy intensive sectors. Furthermore, it should advance the implementation of the Affordable Energy Action plan, ensuring secure, affordable, efficient and clean energy for all Europeans. The ECF will contribute to the shift towards a decarbonised, circular, resource-efficient, climate-neutral, water resilient and bio-based economy. It will also support sustainable, nature-positive and resilient industrial production in energy-intensive industries in the Union, in line with the objectives of the forthcoming proposal for the Industrial Decarbonisation Accelerator Act. It should also support the objectives of the Regulation (EU) 2024/172413 of the European Parliament and of the Council (Net-Zero Industry Act), boosting the manufacturing capacity of net-zero technologies and the ramp up of production capacities and investing in related infrastructure. To decarbonise the transport sector, amongst others the ECF will also invest in sustainable fuels, the related infrastructure and mobile assets as well as in the modernisation and digitisation of transport.(22) The ECF should contribute to the objectives of decarbonising the European industry by promoting the development and deployment of clean technologies The ECF will support the implementation of the Clean Industrial Deal, turning the clean transition and decarbonisation into a driver of growth and competitiveness for European industries and business. To this end, the ECF will support decarbonisation with a technology neutral approach, while recognising a contribution of different technologies to grid balancing and sector coupling, to align in particular with the investment needs of energy intensive sectors. Furthermore, it should advance the implementation of the Affordable Energy Action plan, ensuring secure, affordable, efficient and clean energy for all Europeans. The ECF will contribute to the shift towards a decarbonised, circular, resource-efficient, climate-neutral, water resilient and bio-based economy. It will also support sustainable, nature-positive and resilient industrial production in energy-intensive industries in the Union, in line with the objectives of the forthcoming proposal for the Industrial Decarbonisation Accelerator Act. It should also support the objectives of the Regulation (EU) 2024/172413 of the European Parliament and of the Council (Net-Zero Industry Act), boosting the manufacturing capacity of net-zero technologies and the ramp up of production capacities and investing in related infrastructure. To decarbonise the transport sector, amongst others the ECF will also invest in sustainable fuels, including sustainable biofuels and other renewable fuels, the related infrastructure and mobile assets as well as in the modernisation and digitisation of transport. The ECF should support synergies for decarbonisation including by promoting carbon farming practices.
13 Regulation (EU) 2024/1735 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 on establishing a framework of measures for strengthening Europe’s net-zero technology manufacturing ecosystem and amending Regulation (EU) 2018/1724 (OJ L, 2024/1735, 28.6.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1735/oj).13 Regulation (EU) 2024/1735 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2024 on establishing a framework of measures for strengthening Europe’s net-zero technology manufacturing ecosystem and amending Regulation (EU) 2018/1724 (OJ L, 2024/1735, 28.6.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1735/oj).

Amendment 21

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 22 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(22a) Water is a strategic resource for the Union. The European Water Resilience Strategy highlights the need for increased public and private investment across all stages of water management to strengthen resilience to droughts, water scarcity and climate-related risks. The ECF should support sustainable and integrated water management as a strategic priority, including investments to reduce energy, water and resource intensity. As a key enabler, water infrastructure should be supported through a European water infrastructure and management plan, including the modernisation and digitalisation of systems and solutions such as desalination and water reuse for agriculture, to improve efficiency, strengthen water security and balance, and enhance resilience to droughts and floods. Support should also cover measures such as flood protection, drought management and water retention systems.

Amendment 22

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 23

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(23) The ECF will also contribute to protect, restore and improve the quality of the environment, including water, coast, sea and soil, to reduce pollution, to halt and reverse biodiversity loss and tackle the degradation of terrestrial and marine ecosystems, while enhancing climate and water resilience. The ECF Clean Transition and Decarbonisation window should finance projects that contribute to these objectives.(23) The ECF will also contribute to protect, restore and improve the quality of the environment, including water, coast, sea and soil, to reduce pollution, to halt and reverse biodiversity loss and tackle the degradation of terrestrial and marine ecosystems, while enhancing extreme weather events and water resilience soil health and a sustainable agricultural production. The ECF Clean Transition and Decarbonisation window should finance projects that contribute to these objectives.

Amendment 23

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 24

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(24) Projects and activities under the Clean Transition and Industrial Decarbonisation window shall promote energy efficiency, integrated renewable energy, new energies, energy renovations, and innovative heating and cooling solutions.(24) Projects and activities under the Clean Transition and Industrial Decarbonisation and Fishing Sector window should promote energy efficiency, system integration, renewable energy solutions, including energy communities and projects supporting energy efficiency and renewable energy in agri-food production and processing. They should also support heat networks, energy renovations, and innovative renewable-based heating and cooling solutions.

Amendment 24

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 25

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(25) Union manufacturing productivity also depends on resource efficiency, with materials input representing a signification portion of production costs. Circular approaches to products and manufacturing boost resource productivity, whilst value retention activities such as remanufacturing, refurbishment and repair provide significant job opportunities. The ECF should contribute to the bioeconomy, circular economy and access to materials including biomaterials.(25) Union manufacturing productivity also depends on resource efficiency, with materials input representing a significant portion of production costs. Circular approaches to products and manufacturing boost resource productivity, whilst value retention activities such as remanufacturing, refurbishment and repair provide significant job opportunities. The ECF should contribute to the bioeconomy, circular economy and access to materials including biomaterials, and support circular and bio-based solutions in the agri-food sector, including the use of digestate in agriculture.

Amendment 25

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 28

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(28) While Europe’s digital transformation is accelerating, the many critical dependencies on non-Union suppliers (from raw materials, advanced semiconductors, and AI chips to systems, infrastructures and services) require European alternatives that anchor the digital transformation in Europe’s economy, with our shared values as the essential differentiator, including by leveraging the power of open-source technologies. Support for digital leadership is driven by regulatory and non-regulatory Union policy initiatives in the digital area such as the AI Act, AI Continent and AI Action Plan, the Apply AI Strategy, the Cloud and AI Development Act, the Data Union Strategy, the Digital Networks Act, the EU Quantum Strategy and the Quantum Act, the Cyber-Solidarity Act, the Cyber-Resilience Act and the Cybersecurity Act, the White Paper for European Defence-Readiness 2030, and the revision of the EU Chips Act, and by future policy initiatives. The digital areas to invest in include a number of critical frontier technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and AI-powered digital twins, robotics, semiconductors, autonomous or quantum technologies. They also include key infrastructures such as digital identity, cloud, high performance and quantum computing, communication, advanced underwater observation infrastructure, and sensing infrastructures, digital connectivity networks, including submarine cables, as well as cybersecurity, defence or space capacities. Fostering their uptake across private and public sectors makes our entire economy more competitive, secure, sovereign, and sustainable, fortifying societal resilience and preparedness. Moreover, interoperable digital technologies are driving the modernisation of the public sector, serving for the integration of the single market, which is our most valuable stepping stone for European digital start-ups to become globally competitive. Technological progress and innovation in every economic sector, and thus their productivity and competitiveness, are essentially driven by the integration of sector-specific digital developments and use of digital solutions that should be supported across the ECF.(28) While Europe’s digital transformation is accelerating, the many critical dependencies on non-Union suppliers (from raw materials, advanced semiconductors, and AI chips to systems, infrastructures and services) require European alternatives that anchor the digital transformation in Europe’s economy, with our shared values as the essential differentiator, including by leveraging the power of open-source technologies. Support for digital leadership is driven by regulatory and non-regulatory Union policy initiatives in the digital area such as the AI Act, AI Continent and AI Action Plan, the Apply AI Strategy, the Cloud and AI Development Act, the Data Union Strategy, the Digital Networks Act, the EU Quantum Strategy and the Quantum Act, the Cyber-Solidarity Act, the Cyber-Resilience Act and the Cybersecurity Act, the White Paper for European Defence-Readiness 2030, and the revision of the EU Chips Act, and by future policy initiatives. The digital areas to invest in include a number of critical frontier technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and AI-powered digital twins, robotics, semiconductors, autonomous or quantum technologies. They also include key infrastructures such as digital identity, cloud, high performance and quantum computing, communication, advanced underwater observation infrastructure, and sensing infrastructures, digital connectivity networks, including submarine cables, as well as cybersecurity, defence or space capacities as well as data-driven and sensor-based digital solutions, Earth observation and Space-enabled services, interoperable data platforms, secure cloud and edge computing, and high-quality connectivity infrastructures accessible across the Union, including in rural, remote and low-density areas. Fostering their uptake across private and public sectors makes our entire economy more competitive, secure, sovereign, and sustainable, fortifying societal resilience and preparedness. Moreover, interoperable digital technologies are driving the modernisation of the public sector, serving for the integration of the single market, which is our most valuable stepping stone for European digital start-ups to become globally competitive. Technological progress and innovation in every economic sector, and thus their productivity and competitiveness, are essentially driven by the integration of sector-specific digital developments and use of digital solutions that should be supported across the ECF.

Amendment 26

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 29

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(29) Technological progress and innovation in every economic sector, and thus their productivity and competitiveness are essentially driven by the integration of sector-specific digital developments and use of digital solutions that should be supported across the Fund in the context of the activities developed in the different policy windows of the EDependency on high-risk suppliers in critical sectors can pose a strategic risk of foreign interference and jeopardise the Union’s security, resilience and sovereignty. The NIS Cooperation Group, in cooperation with the Commission and the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA), plays a key role in carrying out EU Coordinated security risk assessments of critical supply chains, taking into account technical and, where relevant, non-technical risk factors in accordance with Article 22 of Directive (EU) 2022/2555.14 .(29) Technological progress and innovation in every economic sector, including the agricultural sector, and thus their productivity and competitiveness, are essentially driven by the integration of sector-specific digital developments and use of digital solutions that should be supported across the Fund in the context of the activities developed in the different policy windows of the ECF. Dependency on high-risk suppliers in critical sectors can pose a strategic risk of foreign interference and jeopardise the Union’s security, resilience and sovereignty. The NIS Cooperation Group, in cooperation with the Commission and the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA), plays a key role in carrying out EU Coordinated security risk assessments of critical supply chains, taking into account technical and, where relevant, non-technical risk factors in accordance with Article 22 of Directive (EU) 2022/2555.14
14 Directive (EU) 2022/2555 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 December 2022 on measures for a high common level of cybersecurity across the Union, amending Regulation (EU) No 910/2014 and Directive (EU) 2018/1972, and repealing Directive (EU) 2016/1148; Text with EEA relevance, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2022/2555/2022-12-27.14 Directive (EU) 2022/2555 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 December 2022 on measures for a high common level of cybersecurity across the Union, amending Regulation (EU) No 910/2014 and Directive (EU) 2018/1972, and repealing Directive (EU) 2016/1148; Text with EEA relevance, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2022/2555/2022-12-27.

Amendment 27

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 30

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(30) Europe must protect its security interest against suppliers which could represent a persistent security risk due to the potential interference from third countries as well as their security, notably cybersecurity. It is therefore necessary to reduce the risk of persisting dependency on high-risk suppliers in the internal market, including in the ICT supply chain, as they could have potentially serious negative impacts on security for users and companies across the Union and the Union’s critical infrastructure in terms of the integrity of data and services as well as the availability of service. This restriction should be based on a proportionate risk assessment and associated mitigation measures as defined in the Union policies and laws.(30) Europe must protect its security interest against suppliers and in all sectors, including the food sector, which could represent a persistent security risk due to the potential interference from third countries as well as their security, notably cybersecurity. It is therefore necessary to reduce the risk of persisting dependency on high-risk suppliers in the internal market, including in the ICT supply chain, as they could have potentially serious negative impacts on security for users and companies across the Union and the Union’s critical infrastructure in terms of the integrity of data and services as well as the availability of service. This restriction should be based on a proportionate risk assessment and associated mitigation measures as defined in the Union policies and laws.

Amendment 28

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 32

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(32) To improve public health and strengthen the competitiveness of the Union, it is crucial to tackle the rise of communicable and non-communicable diseases through targeted health promotion and disease prevention strategies and continued investments, including into the pharmaceutical and medical devices sectors. Such action, coupled with fostering effective, accessible, and resilient health systems, can significantly boost workforce productivity by improving population health and alleviating labour shortages, while also supporting health systems that drive innovation. Leveraging health data is essential in those efforts, enabling informed decision-making. Moreover, fostering innovation by solidifying the evidence-based path from medical breakthroughs to marketable solutions is key to enhancing Union competitiveness and also beneficial to reinforcing supply security.(32) To improve public health and strengthen the competitiveness of the Union, it is crucial to tackle the rise of communicable and non-communicable diseases, through targeted health promotion and disease prevention strategies and continued investments, including into the vaccines, pharmaceutical and medical devices sectors. In this regard, Europe’s Beating Cancer plan1a, the EU’s Mission on Cancer1b and the Special Committee on Beating Cancer’s final report1c are of essential value. A fully integrated One Health approach should be pursued, including the management of zoonotic risks affecting food safety and agricultural production. In this context, financing for health within the ECF should be established as a distinct instrument to support actions linked to agriculture and the agri-food sector. Agriculture, horticulture, fisheries and the agri-food sector should be recognised as key contributors to public health, notably by ensuring access to safe, nutritious and sustainable food and promoting healthy dietary patterns, thereby justifying the financing of health within the ECF as a means to strengthen competitiveness, resilience and sustainability. Such action, coupled with fostering effective, accessible, and resilient health systems, can significantly boost workforce productivity by improving population health and alleviating labour shortages and reduce occupational risks, while also supporting health systems that drive innovation. Leveraging health data is essential in those efforts, enabling informed decision-making. Moreover, fostering innovation by solidifying the evidence-based path from medical breakthroughs to marketable solutions is key to enhancing Union competitiveness and also beneficial to reinforcing supply security. Research activities should, where relevant, adhere to the principle of the 3 Rs in animal testing.
1aCOM(2021)44.
1b https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/document/download/23b773b4-ea6d-4e38-8288-334fb6c4279c_en?filename=ec_rtd_eu-missions-cancer-leaflet-en.pdf
1c A9-9999/2021

Amendment 29

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 33

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(33) The bioeconomy is a growth engine that allows Europe to make a success of the green transition, strengthen its competitiveness and strategic autonomy. Although Europe’s bioeconomy is already reshaping industrial ecosystems, reinforcing strategic autonomy, and unlocking value across strategic sectors, it is crucial to strengthen investments, initiatives and strategies at Union and Member State level to bring it from niche to norm across Union sectors and regions to realise its potential, and in particular for key industries. There is a need to foster the competitiveness, sustainability, resilience and fairness of the agricultural, fisheries, aquaculture and forestry sectors, of rural and coastal areas and to contribute to long-term food security in the Union.(33) The bioeconomy is a growth engine that allows Europe to make a success of the green transition, strengthen its competitiveness and strategic autonomy and contribute to the objectives of the European Health Union. Although Europe’s bioeconomy is already reshaping industrial ecosystems, reinforcing strategic autonomy, and unlocking value across strategic sectors, it is crucial to follow a hierarchy of uses that prioritises use for human consumption over other uses when implementing investments, initiatives and strategies at Union and Member State level to bring it from niche to norm across Union sectors and regions to realise its potential, and in particular for key industries. There is a need to foster the competitiveness, sustainability, resilience and fairness of the agricultural, fisheries, aquaculture and forestry sectors, of rural and coastal areas and the outermost regions and to contribute to long-term food security in the Union.

Amendment 30

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 33 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(33a) As highlighted in the Vision on Agriculture and Food1a, the agri-food sector constitutes a strategic pillar of the Union, whose competitiveness, resilience and sustainability are essential to economic performance, food security and territorial cohesion. Agriculture, food security and the bioeconomy are structural components of the Union’s competitiveness, security and strategic autonomy. They should be mainstreamed across Union policies and should be allocated dedicated resources under ECF. The sector plays a key role in ensuring the availability of safe, sustainable and affordable food, while facing climatic and geopolitical risks, and therefore requires due consideration of its specific sensitivities, including exposure to market and climate volatility. The ECF should support the competitiveness and long-term resilience of agri-food systems in particular by reducing strategic dependencies across the value chain, including on imported critical inputs. Support should enhance competitiveness, sustainability and resilience across agriculture and the broader agri-food sectors, including processing and marketing, fisheries, aquaculture and forestry, while also contributing to development of rural and coastal areas and outermost regions. It should promote research and innovation and their uptake, while ensuring accessible and targeted support, in particular for SMEs and primary producers, and recognising the role of livestock in circular systems.
COM(2025)75

Amendment 31

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 33 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(33b) The competitiveness of the agri-food sector, as strategic component of the Union’s economy, depends on productivity, skills, innovation capacity and effective integration into value chains, supported by a coherent, proportionate and enabling regulatory and investment framework that fosters innovation and avoids unnecessary administrative burdens. Support under the ECF should facilitate technology transfer, innovation uptake, digital skills development and transnational cooperation, enabling farmers, cooperatives and SMEs to participate in higher value-added activities and strengthen their position in Union value chains. Support should also facilitate genuine agricultural innovation, including projects related to new genomic technologies, which offer significant opportunities for farmers and for European seed companies at the forefront of innovation. It should also contribute to ensuring fair competition and a level-playing field with third countries.

Amendment 32

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 34

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(34) Investments, initiatives and strategies are needed to close the innovation gap and accelerate the discovery, development, derisking, demonstration, scale-up of bioeconomy innovations, to support their market uptake, to provide finance along the innovation journey for start-ups and for scaling up high growth companies, to maximise resource efficiency and to secure sustainably sourced biomass supply. The bioeconomy contributes to decarbonisation, by providing sustainable alternatives to fossil-based products and processes, but also to circularity, the clean transition, carbon farming, biodiversity, ecosystem services, and nature restoration.(34) Investments, initiatives and strategies are needed to close innovation and competitiveness gaps in strategic sectors and accelerate the discovery, development, derisking, demonstration, scale-up of bioeconomy innovations, to support their market uptake, to provide finance along the innovation journey for start-ups and for scaling up high growth companies, to maximise resource efficiency and to secure sustainably sourced biomass supply. The bioeconomy contributes to decarbonisation, by providing sustainable alternatives to fossil-based energy, fuels, products and processes, but also to circularity, the clean transition, carbon farming, biodiversity, ecosystem services and nature restoration, including through the valorisation of livestock waste and animal by-products.

Amendment 33

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 34 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(34a) The competitiveness and resilience of primary production systems and land-based value chains depend on productivity, resource efficiency and innovation. The ECF should support the modernisation of production systems to improve efficiency, reduce costs, strengthen risk management and enhance resilience to external shocks. It should ensure accessible and proportionate funding conditions, in particular for SMEs, cooperatives and rural actors, while promoting economic cooperation, fair value distribution and their integration into Union value chains. Such support should include investments in value-added activities, infrastructure, skills and innovation, in complementarity with the CAP.

Amendment 34

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 35

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(35) Fostering the resilience of the European industry is essential for the Union to remain competitive even in times of crisis and is essential for Union’s security. To ensure its resilience, the ECF should support actions aimed to reduce dependencies and diversify supply in strategic sectors such as the raw materials sector, thus reinforcing the Union capacities for a secure supply of sustainable critical raw materials along the whole value chain in line with the objectives of the Regulation (EU) 2024/1252 of the European Parliament and of the Council (Critical Raw Materials Act)15 and the chemicals industry, underpinning almost all industry sectors. Pursuing an ambitious and mutually beneficial trade agenda is essential for the Union’s ability to diversify its supply chains and effectively reduce dependencies.(35) Fostering the resilience of the European industry is essential for the Union to remain competitive even in times of crisis and is essential for Union’s security. To ensure its resilience, the ECF should support actions aimed to reduce dependencies, and diversify supply in strategic sectors such as the raw materials sector, including agricultural raw materials, as well as strengthening and expanding production and storage capacity within the Union thus reinforcing the Union’s capacities for a secure supply of sustainable critical raw materials along the whole value chain in line with the objectives of the Regulation (EU) 2024/1252 of the European Parliament and of the Council (Critical Raw Materials Act)15 and the chemicals industry, underpinning almost all industry sectors, including strategic agri-food inputs. In line with the Union’s economic security objectives, such actions should also strengthen the resilience of supply chains to external and inflationary shocks and reduce strategic dependencies across sectors, including agriculture. Ensuring the availability of essential inputs for food supply chains, including fertilisers, feed and feed additives, seeds, veterinary medicines and animal vaccines, is crucial for food security and the viability of farms. A reform of the trade agenda, including cooperation frameworks to secure stable access to raw materials, is essential for the Union’s ability to diversify its supply chains and effectively reduce dependencies
15 Regulation (EU) 2024/1252 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 April 2024 establishing a framework for ensuring a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials and amending Regulations (EU) No 168/2013, (EU) 2018/858, (EU) 2018/1724 and (EU) 2019/1020 (Text with EEA relevance), OJ L, 2024/1252, 3.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1252/oj15 Regulation (EU) 2024/1252 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 April 2024 establishing a framework for ensuring a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials and amending Regulations (EU) No 168/2013, (EU) 2018/858, (EU) 2018/1724 and (EU) 2019/1020 (Text with EEA relevance), OJ L, 2024/1252, 3.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1252/oj

Amendment 35

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 35 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(35a) Ensuring the availability of food supplies requires strengthened preparedness and resilience of the food supply chain, particularly in border regions. In this context, support should also address climatic risks affecting agriculture, including through Union-level instruments complementing national schemes, such as a European reinsurance guarantee scheme, in order to strengthen risk-sharing, contribute to income stabilisation, mitigate systemic risks, enhance resilience to climatic, market and sanitary risks and ensure a level playing field. The ECF should also support the modernisation of strategic storage and logistics infrastructure for agricultural products and inputs, including, where appropriate, measures by economic actors, capacities for strategic stockpiling of critical inputs and products and recognising the role of farms and local businesses in providing dual-use capacities combining production, storage, logistics and emergency response.

Amendment 36

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 36

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(36) In addition, the geopolitical context, in particular Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, has exposed the Union and its Member States to a high risk of materialisation of conventional military threats, in particularly to the ones bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine. Considering this, together with the threats on the rest of the EU borders,increased investment in defence is deemed a priority, including for projects such as the Baltic Defence Line and Eastern Border Shield. Defence industry and space are key ecosystems to ensure the European Union’s resilience and strategic autonomy and increase the Union’s readiness and preparedness in line with the White Paper for European Defence – Readiness 2030.16 It also supports the Union’s focus on sustainability, competitiveness, resilience and security and the Union position in the world. A strong European Defence Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB) is an indispensable prerequisite of defence readiness and credible deterrence. It is also essential for the protection of European citizens, ensuring the Union’s ability to respond to emerging security challenges, to support Ukraine, and to uphold Europe's position as a global actor. The EDTIB is recognised as a strategic asset, contributing to the Union’s economic resilience and security, innovation, technological leadership and strategic autonomy. Across the Union and its Member States, the defence sector is evolving rapidly, with cutting-edge technologies and new actors playing an increasingly important role. Innovation cycles are also accelerating, with growing emphasis on rapid prototyping, testing and validation, including in real operational environments. To improve military mobility, investments in new civilian-military assets, including mobile assets and dual use infrastructure need to be developed. Coordinated and sustained support to the EDTIB is therefore key to reinforce the collective security of the Union and its Member States, the development of Union-wide defence projects of common interest, and Europe’s defence readiness. In relation to this, actions supporting the reinforcement of the Ukrainian defence technological and industrial base should be also financed, as its industry will be essential to support European increased defence needs. To this end, the ECF shall be implemented taking into account the objectives of the Strategic Compass for Security and Defence and shall be consistent with the defence capability priorities commonly agreed by Member States within the framework of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP).(36) In addition, the geopolitical context, in particular Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, has exposed the Union and its Member States to a high risk of materialisation of conventional military threats, in particularly to the ones bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine. Those regions also face structural challenges linked to their location, including reduced investment due to heightened geopolitical risks. (Considering this, together with the threats on the rest of the EU borders, increased investment in defence is deemed a priority, including for projects such as the Baltic Defence Line and Eastern Border Shield. To ensure balanced implementation of the Fund, these border regions should receive targeted support under the ECF, including dedicated calls, advisory support and tailored financial instruments, enabling local actors to access funding. Defence industry and space are key ecosystems to ensure the European Union’s resilience and strategic autonomy and increase the Union’s readiness and preparedness in line with the White Paper for European Defence – Readiness 2030.16 It also supports the Union’s focus on sustainability, competitiveness, resilience and security and the Union position in the world. A strong European Defence Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB) is an indispensable prerequisite of defence readiness and credible deterrence. It is also essential for the protection of European citizens, ensuring the Union’s ability to respond to emerging security challenges, to support Ukraine, and to uphold Europe's position as a global actor. The EDTIB is recognised as a strategic asset, contributing to the Union’s economic resilience and security, innovation, technological leadership and strategic autonomy. Across the Union and its Member States, the defence sector is evolving rapidly, with cutting-edge technologies and new actors playing an increasingly important role. Innovation cycles are also accelerating, with growing emphasis on rapid prototyping, testing and validation, including in real operational environments. To improve military mobility, investments in new civilian-military assets, including mobile assets and dual use infrastructure need to be developed. Coordinated and sustained support to the EDTIB is therefore key to reinforce the collective security of the Union and its Member States, the development of Union-wide defence projects of common interest, and Europe’s defence readiness. In relation to this, actions supporting the reinforcement of the Ukrainian defence technological and industrial base should be also financed, as its industry will be essential to support European increased defence needs. To this end, the ECF shall be implemented taking into account the objectives of the Strategic Compass for Security and Defence and shall be consistent with the defence capability priorities commonly agreed by Member States within the framework of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP).
16 Commission, the High Representative have present, White Paper for European Defence – Readiness 2030, 19.03.2025.16 Commission, the High Representative have present, White Paper for European Defence – Readiness 2030, 19.03.2025.

Amendment 37

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 39

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(39) The ECF should also support the policy goals of a safer, more secure Europe that is better prepared against security threats, in particular by enhancing European industry competitiveness and strategic autonomy, including maritime and customs security, critical energy and transport infrastructure and civil preparedness. To address increasing security and hybrid threats like terrorism, organised crime, cybercrime, climate disasters and attacks on critical infrastructure, the ECF should support Europe’s efforts to increase its threat awareness, build resilience and boost security investments, and promote preparedness by design across relevant sectors.(39) The ECF should also support the policy goals of a safer, more secure Europe that is better prepared against security threats, in particular by enhancing European industry competitiveness and strategic autonomy, including maritime and customs security, critical energy and transport infrastructure, and civil preparedness, including food security, as well as measures strengthening customs controls and traceability tools, including for the protection of geographical indications. To address increasing security and hybrid threats like terrorism, organised crime, cybercrime, extreme weather events and attacks on critical infrastructure, the ECF should support Europe’s efforts to increase its threat awareness, build resilience and boost security investments, and promote preparedness by design across relevant sectors.

Amendment 38

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 41

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(41) To ensure predictability for stakeholders and provide a sufficient level of certainty for investment planning, the ECF should set out an indicative budget distribution across the policy windows for the period 2028 to 2034 while maintaining flexibility to reallocate parts of the budget in accordance with new challenges and emerging priorities throughout the duration of the Multiannual Financial Framework. To this extent, it should be ensured that a certain minimum budget envelope is available for long-term planning and commitments broken down over several years into annual instalments in each policy window, allowing the Union to consolidate its demand and enter into strategic long-term relations with recipients give long-term predictability to industry and financial ecosystem, and enable the setup of important Union infrastructures, such as for hydrogen and industrial carbon management, world-class satellite systems, underwater observation infrastructures, cybersecurity, semiconductors quantum, AI and high-performance computing or critical infrastructure, and defence or space projects of common interest.(41) To ensure predictability for stakeholders and provide a sufficient level of certainty for investment planning, the ECF should set out an indicative budget distribution across the policy windows for the period 2028 to 2034 while maintaining flexibility to reallocate parts of the budget in accordance with new challenges and emerging priorities throughout the duration of the Multiannual Financial Framework. To this extent, it should be ensured that a certain minimum budget envelope is available for long-term planning and commitments broken down over several years into annual instalments in each policy window, allowing the Union to consolidate its demand and enter into strategic long-term relations with recipients give long-term predictability to industry and financial ecosystem, and enable the setup of important Union infrastructures, such as for hydrogen and industrial carbon management, world-class satellite systems, underwater observation infrastructures, cybersecurity, semiconductors quantum, AI and high-performance computing or critical infrastructure, and defence or space projects of common interest. At least half of the total allocation under the ‘Health, Biotech, Agriculture, Food Production, Food Security and Bioeconomy’ window should be dedicated to agriculture, food production and food security.

Amendment 39

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 48

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(48) Union support should focus on the achievement of policy objectives. In all cases, ECF funding should be provided in the form best able to achieve its objectives, while limiting administrative burden for recipients to the absolute minimum. When implementing the budget, the ECF should provide the full toolbox of Union support and ensure synergies between its supported policies, in particular by allowing for simplified common award procedures to pursue objectives of more than one policy. As such, the elimination of burdensome financial reporting through the widest possible use of financing not linked to cost should be pursued as a major simplification measure.(48) Union support should focus on the achievement of policy objectives. In all cases, ECF funding should be provided in the form best able to achieve its objectives, while limiting administrative burden for recipients to the absolute minimum, in particular for microenterprises and SMEs. When implementing the budget, the ECF should provide the full toolbox of Union support and ensure synergies between its supported policies, in particular by allowing for simplified common award procedures to pursue objectives of more than one policy. Major simplification should be pursued, in particular by reducing burdensome financial reporting and making wider use of financing not linked to costs, such as lump-sum grants and result-based funding, while taking into account the different administrative capacities of beneficiaries and the financing should be accompanied by an adequate level of transparency and monitoring to ensure that they are used in line with the objectives of the ECF.

Amendment 40

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 49

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(49) The ECF should support a diverse set of policies contributing to competitiveness, while providing a harmonised baseline set of eligibility criteria to provide policy steer and ensuring a sufficient level of protection of economic and security interests by focusing Union support on recipients in the Member States, including Overseas Countries and Territories. Where necessary, the ECF should establish specific eligibility conditions for strategic sectors and technologies, including underlying value chains, critical Union infrastructures and specific capabilities.(49) The ECF should support a diverse set of policies contributing to competitiveness, while providing a harmonised baseline set of eligibility criteria to provide policy steer and ensuring a sufficient level of protection of economic and security interests by focusing Union support on recipients in the Member States, including Outermost Regions and Overseas Countries and Territories. Union support should be awarded based on excellence, impact, quality and efficiency, ensuring a merit-based selection process and balanced geographical distribution. To promote such distribution, targeted measures such as dedicated calls, simplified procedures, advisory support and differentiated co-financing may facilitate access, particularly in rural, remote and less developed regions. The Commission should periodically publish relevant information on the geographical distribution of support. Where necessary, the ECF should establish specific eligibility conditions for strategic sectors and technologies, including underlying value chains, critical Union infrastructures and specific capabilities ensuring equitable access to support for both large operators and smaller entities.

Amendment 41

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 56

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(56) A horizontal, cross-cutting funding toolbox should be set at the service of all policy windows, offering every form of support allowed by Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2059, such as financial instruments, including support provided in the form of equity. The choice of the specific funding instrument and in particular whether support will be repayable or not, shall depend on the nature of the actions to be funded (for example underlying market failures, the specific need, the nature of the industry, the stage of development or type of the beneficiary). Union support should derisk projects to the degree necessary for the private sector to invest and for the project to be successfully delivered. Co-financing rates should be as low as possible and as high as needed to realise the supported project. A mix of funding tools could be used, including blending operations and combination of funding. The ECF should also provide each policy area with advice on the most appropriate funding tool to be used for its specific actions, depending on, inter alia, the development stage, the specific industry needs and underlying market failures.(56) A horizontal, cross-cutting funding toolbox should be set at the service of all policy windows, offering every form of support allowed by Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2059, such as financial instruments, including support provided in the form of equity. The choice of the specific funding instrument and in particular whether support will be repayable or not, shall depend on the nature of the actions to be funded (for example underlying market failures, the specific need, the nature of the industry, the stage of development or type of the beneficiary). Union support should derisk projects to the degree necessary for the private sector to invest and for the project to be successfully delivered. Co-financing rates should be as low as possible and as high as needed to realise the supported project, taking into account the type of action, the nature of applicants and the specific characteristics of certain regions. A mix of funding tools could be used, including blending operations and combination of funding. The ECF should also provide each policy area with advice on the most appropriate funding tool to be used for its specific actions, depending on, inter alia, the development stage, the specific industry needs and underlying market failures.

Amendment 42

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 57

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(57) Multistakeholder consultations, including those of researchers and industry, the social partners, as well as investors, end-users and civil society, from SME, small to large organisations, should contribute to the priorities of the ECF. Those consultations should be structured via advisory boards including the ECF Stakeholder Board whose task should be to provide insights and advise the Commission on policy trends, on investment needs, and on the implementation of the ECF from the perspective of project promoters, with the aim to ensure that feedback from stakeholder communities is reflected in the design of work programmes.(57) Multistakeholder consultations, including consultations with representatives of research community, industry, agriculture, the social partners, as well as investors, end-users and civil society, from SMEs to large organisations, should contribute to the priorities of the ECF. Those consultations should be structured via advisory boards including the ECF Stakeholder Board whose task should be to provide insights and advise the Commission on policy trends, on investment needs, and on the implementation of the ECF from the perspective of project promoters, with the aim of ensuring that feedback from stakeholder communities is reflected in the design of work programmes. The composition of the ECF Stakeholder Board should ensure a balanced geographical representation.

Amendment 43

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 72

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(72) To ensure consistency in the implementation of budgetary guarantees, financial instruments and blending operations under different Union programmes, the Commission should develop guidance including technical arrangements, terms and conditions to deploy these forms of support under those programmes.(72) To ensure consistency in the implementation of budgetary guarantees, financial instruments and blending operations under different Union programmes, the Commission should develop common guidance including technical arrangements and clear terms and conditions to deploy these forms of support under those programmes.

Amendment 44

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 78

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(78) SMEs make up more than 99 % of all businesses in the Union, provide two thirds of jobs, and contribute substantially to the creation of new quality jobs in all sectors. Scaling firms exist across all sectors and levels of innovative prowess. Stimulating the Union’s growth and innovation can only happen by boosting the many scalers that exist across the Union SME population. SMEs are essential to achieve the green and digital transformations of the economy, including the achievement of climate neutrality.(78) SMEs make up more than 99 % of all businesses in the Union, provide two thirds of jobs, and contribute substantially to the creation of new quality jobs in all sectors. Scaling firms exist across all sectors and levels of innovative prowess. Stimulating the Union’s growth and innovation can only happen by boosting the many scalers that exist across the Union SME population. Beyond their role in the green and digital transformations of the economy, SMEs also contribute to the Union’s security, including food security, by strengthening resilient value chains and dispersing risks across production, processing and distribution.

Amendment 45

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 79

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(79) However, access to finance is an important barrier for SMEs, especially for start-ups and scale-ups, as they often rely on external financing to support their growth plans. SMEs face further barriers to innovation and growth that do not affect larger firms to the same extent, for example the lack of entrepreneurial skills, lack of access technology infrastructure, difficulties in protecting intellectual property or accessing export markets and value chains in order to develop their internationalisation activities.(79) However, access to finance is an important barrier for SMEs, especially for start-ups and scale-ups, as they often rely on external financing to support their growth plans. SMEs face further barriers to innovation and growth that do not affect larger firms to the same extent, for example the lack of entrepreneurial skills, lack of access technology infrastructure, difficulties in protecting intellectual property or accessing export markets and value chains in order to develop their internationalisation activities. These challenges are particularly pronounced in the Outermost Regions, where structural constraints, remoteness, small market size and higher costs further exacerbate barriers to access to finance, innovation capacity and integration into European and global value chains.

Amendment 46

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 80

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(80) Evidence shows that direct financial support to SMEs is not enough on its own to support their scaling-up and that they need and benefit from dedicated advice at Union level. Providing advice on Single Market rules, innovation and access to finance contributes to Union competitiveness. Moreover, business support at local, regional and national level is diverse and should also connect less developed and outermost regions. Existing Union initiatives such as the Enterprise Europe Network, European Cluster Collaboration Platform and European Digital Innovation Hubs have helped bridge this gap. Accordingly, an ‘EU for Business Network’ shall be established, building on the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN), the European Cluster Collaboration Platform (ECCP) and other networks, to simplify and streamline advisory and partnership services.(80) Evidence shows that direct financial support to SMEs is not enough on its own to support their scaling-up and that they need and benefit from dedicated advice at Union level. Providing advice on Single Market rules, innovation and access to finance contributes to Union competitiveness. Moreover, business support at local, regional and national level is diverse and should also connect less developed, rural and outermost regions. Existing Union initiatives such as the Enterprise Europe Network, European Cluster Collaboration Platform and European Digital Innovation Hubs have helped bridge this gap. Accordingly, an ‘EU for Business Network’ shall be established, building on the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN), the European Cluster Collaboration Platform (ECCP) and other networks, to simplify and streamline advisory and partnership services.

Amendment 47

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 81

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(81) The ECF will support SME’s access to finance and strengthen the competitiveness of the Union SMEs via two main avenues: First, in addition to the EU for Business Network, the ECF will also conduct additional cross-cutting activities focused on strengthening the competitiveness of SMEs. Second, the ECF policy windows should include dedicated SME actions targeting SMEs in strategic sectors, such as bonus systems to encourage SME participation, with a view to fostering SME innovation, growth and scaling-up. Special support may be granted for access to and the availability of finance for SMEs and small mid-cap companies across all sectors of the economy, including micro-finance, support for social enterprises. Furthermore, a flexible financial toolbox under the ECF should ensure that SMEs could receive the type of support that best fits their needs along their investment journey.(81) The ECF will support SME’s access to finance and strengthen the competitiveness of the Union SMEs via two main avenues: First, in addition to the EU for Business Network, the ECF will also conduct additional cross-cutting activities focused on strengthening the competitiveness of SMEs. Second, the ECF policy windows should include dedicated SME actions targeting SMEs in strategic sectors, such as bonus systems to encourage SME participation, with a view to fostering SME innovation, growth and scaling-up. Special support may be granted for access to and the availability of finance for SMEs and small mid-cap companies across all sectors of the economy, including micro-finance, support for social enterprises. Furthermore, a flexible financial toolbox under the ECF should ensure that SMEs could receive the type of support that best fits their needs along their investment journey. It is essential to introduce mechanisms preventing the marginalisation of SMEs, mid-caps and start-ups and to ensure a dedicated allocation of resources for these enterprises, particularly for scale-up projects. Such allocations should be clearly reflected in programming documents and implementation schedules to guarantee effective access to financing. Beyond minimum participation requirements, the Fund should provide dedicated financial and non-financial instruments enabling these enterprises to participate effectively in ECF-supported projects, including enhanced advisory services, simplified application procedures, point-based bonus systems for SME participation in consortia, and access to financial support through national intermediaries. The ECF should also support innovation across the entire lifecycle, from research and development to demonstrators, industrial deployment, scaling and market expansion.

Amendment 48

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 87

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(87) Although work programmes and other acts implementing this Regulation concern specific budget implementation tasks which do not require a conferral of implementing powers and which should not normally fall within the scope of implementing acts referred to in Regulation (EU) No 182/2011, the advisory procedure should be used for the adoption of certain acts as defined in this Regulation, including work programmes implementing activities for clean transition, health, biotech, agriculture and bioeconomy, and digital leadership, resilience and security, defence industry and space, given that those acts should be fully supported and create synergies with national and shared management activities conducted by the Member States. Due the sensitivity and particular importance of synergies and full coordination with Member States in the area of resilience and security, defence industry support and space, the examination procedure should be used for the adoption of work programmes in these areas.(87) Although work programmes and other acts implementing this Regulation concern specific budget implementation tasks which do not require a conferral of implementing powers and which should not normally fall within the scope of implementing acts referred to in Regulation (EU) No 182/2011, the advisory procedure should be used for the adoption of certain acts as defined in this Regulation, including work programmes implementing activities for clean transition, health, biotech, agriculture, food production and food security and bioeconomy, and digital leadership, resilience and security, defence industry and space, given that those acts should be fully supported and create synergies with national and shared management activities conducted by the Member States. Due the sensitivity and particular importance of synergies and full coordination with Member States in the area of resilience and security, defence industry support and space, the examination procedure should be used for the adoption of work programmes in these areas. In this context, safeguards are necessary to ensure balanced resource allocation, as agriculture, food, aquaculture, fisheries and forestry may otherwise be disadvantaged compared to sectors with stronger capacities. These safeguards should ensure adequate visibility and resourcing of rural and primary sectors. Funding for agriculture and food security should remain proportionate to other policy areas by preserving the role of the CAP, while targeted support, simplified procedures and capacity-building should facilitate access for farmers, cooperatives and rural SMEs.

Amendment 49

Proposal for a regulation

Article 1 – paragraph 2 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) A ‘Clean Transition and Industrial Decarbonisation’ window – implemented through the activities set out in Chapter II and Chapter IV, and contributing to the specific objectives set out in Article 3(2), point (a);(a) A ‘Clean Transition and Industrial and Fishing Sector Decarbonisation’ window – implemented through the activities set out in Chapter II and Chapter IV, and contributing to the specific objectives set out in Article 3(2), point (a);

Amendment 50

Proposal for a regulation

Article 1 – paragraph 2 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) A ‘Health, Biotech, Agriculture and Bioeconomy’ window – implemented through the activities set out in Chapter II and Chapter V, and contributing to the specific objectives set out in Article 3(2), point (b);(b) A ’Health, Biotech, Agriculture, Food Production, Food Security and Bioeconomy’ window – implemented through the activities set out in Chapter II and Chapter V, and contributing to the specific objectives set out in Article 3(2), point (b), including, where relevant, support for agricultural investments as further specified in Chapter V;

Amendment 51

Proposal for a regulation

Article 1 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3. The Regulation also sets up a legal framework aiming at ensuring security of supply, removing investment obstacles and production bottlenecks and supporting the competitiveness of the Union’s industrial base.3. The Regulation also sets up a legal framework aiming at ensuring security of supply, including the creation and redevelopment of strategic storage capacity, removing investment obstacles and production bottlenecks and supporting the competitiveness and sustainability of the Union’s industrial base.

Amendment 52

Proposal for a regulation

Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 21

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(21) ‘Infrastructure’ means all physical and virtual elements necessary for the provision of services and economic activities, including networks, grids and assets, as well as mobile assets linked to infrastructure, fostering decarbonisation, resilience, efficiency, digitalisation, and interoperability;(21) ‘Infrastructure’ means all physical and virtual elements necessary for the provision of services and economic activities, including water management, networks, grids and assets, as well as mobile assets linked to infrastructure, fostering decarbonisation, resilience, efficiency, digitalisation, and interoperability;

Amendment 53

Proposal for a regulation

Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 21 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(21a) ‘Processing of agricultural products’ means any operation performed on an agricultural product, which results in a different agricultural product, excluding on-farm operations necessary to prepare an animal or plant product for its first sale;

Amendment 54

Proposal for a regulation

Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 21 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(21b) ‘Marketing of agricultural products’ means the holding or display for sale, the offering for sale, the delivery or any other form of placing on the market of agricultural products, other than first sales by primary producers to resellers or processors;

Amendment 55

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) delivering technological, economic and environmental impact from the Union's investments, including by developing disruptive and incremental innovation, and emerging, cutting-edge, dual-use, and strategic technologies with significant economic potential, including by developing and accelerating their manufacturing and industrial deployment;(a) delivering technological, economic, social and environmental impact from the Union's investments, including by developing disruptive and incremental innovation, and emerging, cutting-edge, dual-use, and strategic technologies with significant economic potential, including by developing and accelerating their manufacturing and industrial deployment, including in food supply chains;

Amendment 56

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) reducing or preventing the Union’s strategic dependencies, and reinforcing the Union’s resilience, and economic security, including through diversifying sources and markets, support to ramp up of European production of strategic technologies and creating, strengthening and protecting critical Union value chains and infrastructure;(b) reducing and preventing the Union’s strategic dependencies, and reinforcing the Union’s resilience and economic food, water and energy security, including through diversifying sources and markets, improving resource efficiency and circularity, supporting the ramp-up of European production of strategic technologies and strategic raw materials, including food and fertilisers, and creating, strengthening and protecting critical Union value chains and infrastructure, including agri-food supply chains and agricultural inputs for food security, including through the promotion of innovation uptake, value-added activities and the integration of rural areas into European value chains, while supporting the sustainable competitiveness of agriculture, productive investment and digitalisation;

Amendment 57

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) addressing market failures and suboptimal investment situations, including by crowding in private capital and institutional investors as well as public funding in a proportionate manner, while avoiding duplication and without crowding out private investors; serving as an integrated platform for delivering targeted financial support to companies across all development phases start-ups, scale-ups, and strategic companies, including those actively pursuing manufacturing, industrial and market deployment;(c) addressing market failures and suboptimal investment situations, including by crowding in private capital and institutional investors as well as public funding in a proportionate manner, while avoiding duplication and without crowding out private investors; serving as an integrated platform for delivering targeted financial support to companies across all development phases start-ups, scale-ups, and strategic companies, including those actively pursuing manufacturing, including agri-food processing, industrial and market deployment;

Amendment 58

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point f

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(f) developing Union cross-border and critical infrastructure key to the Union’s competitiveness, and strategic independence in particular energy and transport, digital and security, defence and space infrastructure as well as social infrastructure and related data and services;(f) developing and strengthening Union cross-border and critical infrastructure essential for the Union’s competitiveness, and strategic independence and resilience in particular infrastructure for energy, water, transport, digital and security, defence and space, strategic infrastructure for food storage and logistics as well as social infrastructure and related data and services;

Amendment 59

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point f a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(fa) ensuring water resilience across the Union by supporting sustainable and efficient water use, upgrading water-related infrastructure and contributing to long-term resilience to droughts and water scarcity;

Amendment 60

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point g

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(g) strengthening the competitiveness of SMEs and small mid-cap companies established in the Union and their ability to grow and scale up, in particular by improving their access to finance, including private investment, micro-finance and support to social enterprises as facilitating access to Union funding, through faster, simplified and harmonised procedures; reducing and ensuring a proportionate reporting burden;(g) strengthening the competitiveness of SMEs and small mid-cap companies, including energy communities, established in the Union and their ability to grow and scale up, in particular by improving their access to finance, including private investment, micro-finance and support to social enterprises as facilitating access to Union funding, through faster, simplified, harmonised and proportionate procedures and reporting;

Amendment 61

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point h

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(h) addressing shortages of skills critical to all kinds of quality jobs in strategic sectors for EU competitiveness, through both horizontal and specific skills investment, contributing to the availability of skills in future emerging technologies, and by pursuing to accompany investments with skills investment and indicate when it is included;(h) addressing shortages of skills critical to all kinds of quality jobs in strategic sectors, including agriculture and agri-food sectors, for EU competitiveness, through both horizontal and specific skills investment, contributing to the availability of skills in future emerging technologies, and by pursuing to accompany investments with skills investment and indicate when it is included;

Amendment 62

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point k

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(k) ensuring a just transition to a sustainable, decarbonised and digital economy that is fair and supporting workers and communities.(k) ensuring a just transition to a sustainable, decarbonised and digital economy that is fair and supports workers and communities, both in urban and in rural areas.

Amendment 63

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) For support to Clean Transition and Industrial Decarbonisation, the specific objectives of support to decarbonisation of European industry, including SMEs and energy intensive industries, clean tech manufacturing and its supply chains, and contributing to the shift towards a sustainable, circular, energy-, water- and resource-efficient, climate-neutral and resilient economy. This includes the uptake by industries of decarbonisation technologies and other solutions for their industrial processes and activities, as well as the decarbonisation of energy supply, promotion of energy efficiency, the uptake of renewable and clean energy solutions, the development of energy system flexibility, the uptake of lead markets for clean products , the development, resilience, integration and digitalisation of the energy and transport infrastructures and systems, boosting smart mobility and sustainable alternative fuels, as well as boosting the sustainable blue economy, the development of innovative nature-based business models and demand side solutions for clean and decarbonised buildings, transport and industry, and production ramp up contributing to Europe’s strategic autonomy.(a) For support to Clean Transition and Industrial and Fishing Sector Decarbonisation, the specific objectives of support to decarbonisation of European industry, including SMEs and energy intensive industries, clean tech manufacturing and its supply chains and contributing to a sustainable, circular, energy-, water- and resource-efficient and resilient economy. This includes the uptake by industries of decarbonisation technologies and other solutions for their industrial processes and activities, as well as the decarbonisation of energy supply, promotion of energy efficiency, the uptake of renewable and clean energy solutions, the development of energy system flexibility, the uptake of lead markets for clean products, the development, resilience, integration and digitalisation of the energy and transport infrastructures and systems, boosting smart mobility and sustainable fuels, including sustainable biofuels and other renewable fuels, as well as boosting the sustainable blue economy, the development of innovative nature-based business models and bio-based supply and demand solutions for buildings, transport and industry, and production ramp up contributing to Europe’s strategic autonomy, including resilience to extreme weather events, as well as decarbonisation of agri-food systems while maintaining productivity and food supply.

Amendment 64

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a – point 1 (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1) For support to the fisheries sector within the ECF and Horizon Europe, the specific objective of establishing dedicated and ring-fenced budget lines to prioritise decarbonisation, support generational renewal, enhance competitiveness, and promote European aquaculture and the processing and valorisation of fishery products, thereby strengthening Union food self-sufficiency and ensuring a resilient, innovative and future-oriented value chain.

Amendment 65

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ab) Reiterates the need to preserve or increase the proportion of the budget allocated to agriculture within the Horizon Europe fund, in order to reflect the overall growth of the instrument and to ensure the availability of funding in line with the agriculture sector’s strategic challenges;

Amendment 66

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point b – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) For support to Health, Biotechnology, Agriculture and Bioeconomy:(b) For support to Health, Biotechnology, Agriculture, Food Production, Food Security and Bioeconomy:

Amendment 67

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point b – point 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(1) For support to health, the specific objectives of fostering innovation and competitiveness of the health sector while ensuring supply security and the industrial capacity and capability to manage future serious cross-border threats to health; improving and protecting public and population health, by prioritising health promotion and disease prevention across the life span through a health-in-all and One Health policies approach, and by strengthening innovation and resilience of health systems.(1) For support to health, the specific objectives of fostering innovation and competitiveness of the health sector while ensuring supply security and the industrial capacity and capability to manage future serious cross-border threats to health, including human, plant and animal health; improving and protecting public and population health, by prioritising health promotion and disease prevention across the life span through a health-in-all and One Health approach, including zoonotic risks affecting food safety and agricultural production, and by strengthening innovation and resilience of health systems.

Amendment 68

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point b – point 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(2) For support to biotechnology, the specific objectives of contributing to the development and scalable production and uptake, availability and accessibility of medicinal products, medical devices, diagnostics and other medical countermeasures.(2) For support to biotechnology, the specific objectives of contributing to the development and scalable production and uptake, availability and accessibility of biotechnological applications, including medicinal products, medical devices, diagnostics and other countermeasures, as well as applications in agriculture such as plant and animal breeding, biocontrol products and feed additives.

Amendment 69

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point b – point 3

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(3) For support to bioeconomy policy, the specific objectives of fostering an innovative and competitive bioeconomy in the Union, including in the areas of biobased materials and products, biomanufacturing, innovative food products and biochemicals; including support to SMEs, start ups and scaleups, contribute to the development and scalable production and uptake, availability and accessibility of bioeconomy innovations, including those based on cross-sectoral cutting-edge biotechnology; strengthen supply chains and increase their resilience.(3) For support to bioeconomy policy, the specific objectives of fostering an innovative and competitive bioeconomy in the Union, including in the areas of biobased materials and products, biomanufacturing, innovative industrial processing of food and innovative food products and biochemicals; including support to SMEs, start-ups and scaleups and innovative clusters, contribute to the development and scalable production and uptake, availability and accessibility of bioeconomy innovations, including those based on cross-sectoral cutting-edge biotechnology and bio-based solutions, as well as innovative solutions in food storage, processing and packaging that preserve key nutritional components to strengthen supply chains and increase their resilience.

Amendment 70

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point b – point 4

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(4) For support to the agriculture and food security, the specific objective of fostering the competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience of the agriculture, fisheries and aquaculture, forestry and rural and coastal areas and their role in the transition to a climate-neutral climate-resilient, water-smart, nature-positive economy and the protection of natural resources biodiversity while contributing to long term food security in the Union.(4) For support to agriculture, food security and strategic autonomy, the specific objective of fostering the competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience of the agriculture and food systems, covering the entire agri-food chain, including the food industry, horticulture, fisheries and aquaculture, forestry and rural and coastal areas and outermost regions, support shall contribute to the transition towards a resource-efficient, climate- and water-resilient economy, including through upgrading water-related infrastructure, the sustainable and efficient use of water resources and the promotion of circular water use and reuse where appropriate, while strengthening long-term food security and the functioning of the agri-food value chain, including processing and marketing of agricultural products .
It shall promote applied and practice-oriented research and innovation, including through multi-actor approach ensuring the involvement of farmers and all other relevant actors, and facilitate the uptake of innovation in practice. Investments shall support the modernisation of production systems including through innovation, digital solutions and efficient use of resources, and shall in particular aim to strengthen food security, farm resilience, the position of primary producers in the value chain, generational renewal and territorial cohesion. Support shall strengthen the economic viability of agriculture and food production and shall not support business models that systematically displace traditional agriculture, livestock farming or conventional food production systems and shall avoid any negative impact on agricultural competitiveness when complying with the climate and environmental requirements of the Union.

Amendment 71

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) For support to Digital Leadership policy, the specific objectives of fostering innovation and competitiveness of digital sector for a competitive and secure Union and bringing its benefits to citizens and society, public administrations and businesses across the Union. This shall include, but not be limited to, supporting the entire digital value- and supply-chains and activities including support to start-ups, scale-ups and SMEs, in particular along the following dimensions: Achieving leadership in digital and AI technologies, including through technology transfer and innovation, and through cutting-edge infrastructures such as AI-powered digital twins; Achieving technological sovereignty by building resilient digital ecosystems and ensuring a high-level of cybersecurity in the Union; Enabling the power of digital for businesses and citizens by deploying advanced digital applications and services, infrastructures, capacities and capabilities and by reinforcing interoperability across the Union, Including support to digitalisation of companies, including SMEs, small mid-cap companies, start-ups and scale-ups; Supporting the digital transformation and interoperability of public and private sectors through the rapid uptake of AI, the wallet technologies, such as EU Digital Identity Wallets and trust services established pursuant to Regulation (EU) No 910/2014 and the forthcoming European Business Wallets and other digital innovative solutions. Support to cultural and creative industries, complementing the AgoraEU programme.(c) For support to Digital Leadership policy, the specific objectives of fostering innovation and competitiveness of digital sector for a competitive and secure Union and bringing its benefits to citizens and society, public administrations and businesses across the Union, including rural, remote and agricultural areas, the outermost regions as well as islands. This shall include, but not be limited to, supporting the entire digital value- and supply-chains and activities including support to start-ups, scale-ups and SMEs, in particular along the following dimensions: Achieving leadership in digital and AI technologies, including through technology transfer and innovation, and through cutting-edge infrastructures such as AI-powered digital twins; Achieving technological sovereignty by building resilient digital ecosystems and ensuring a high-level of cybersecurity in the Union; Enabling the power of digital for businesses and citizens by deploying advanced digital applications and services, infrastructures, capacities and capabilities and by reinforcing interoperability across the Union, Including support to digitalisation of companies, including SMEs, small mid-cap companies, start-ups and scale-ups; Supporting the digital transformation and interoperability of public and private sectors through the rapid uptake of AI, the wallet technologies, such as EU Digital Identity Wallets and trust services established pursuant to Regulation (EU) No 910/2014 and the forthcoming European Business Wallets and other digital innovative solutions. Support to cultural and creative industries, complementing the AgoraEU programme.

Amendment 72

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point d – point 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(1) For support to resilience of supply chains, the specific objectives of reinforcing Europe’s resilience by strengthening the Union capacity in exploration, extraction, processing and recycling of raw materials and diversifying supply sources and markets, and improving the timely availability of such products, including through the reduction of their delivery lead time, reservation of manufacturing slots or stockpiling of products, intermediate products or raw materials.(1) For support to resilience of supply chains, the specific objectives of reinforcing Europe’s resilience by strengthening the Union capacity in production, exploration, extraction, processing and recycling of raw materials, including agricultural products and diversifying supply sources and markets through economic diplomacy and intergovernmental agreements, and improving the timely availability of such products, including through the reduction of their delivery lead time, reservation of manufacturing slots or stockpiling of products, intermediate products or raw materials, as well as supporting investments in logistics infrastructure, notably food storage capacities and all related transport facilities to safeguard the Union’s food security.

Amendment 73

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point d – point 3

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(3) For the implementation of EU space systems and space policy, the specific objectives of developing, maintaining and operating space systems, providing cutting-edge space-based information, data and services supporting Union policies, notably in the area of security, defence, sustainable growth, environment protection and climate resilience, global engagement and strategic independence; Maximising the socio-economic benefits of space-based activities, in particular by fostering the development of an innovative and competitive Union space economy and supporting the development of a genuine Single Market for space activities, including collaborative research and innovation for space products and technologies and support to SMEs; Enhancing the safety, security and sustainability of all outer space activities; Promoting the role of the Union as a global actor in the space sector.(3) For the implementation of EU space systems and space policy, the specific objectives of developing, maintaining and operating space systems, providing cutting-edge space-based information, data and services supporting Union policies, notably in the area of security, defence, sustainable growth, environment protection and resilience to climate related extreme weather events, global engagement and strategic independence; Maximising the socio-economic benefits of space-based activities, in particular by fostering the development of an innovative and competitive Union space economy and supporting the development of a genuine Single Market for space activities, including collaborative research and innovation for space products and technologies and support to SMEs; Enhancing the safety, security and sustainability of all outer space activities; Promoting the role of the Union as a global actor in the space sector.

Amendment 74

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point d – point 4

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(4) For support to civil industrial security, the specific objectives of strengthening the competitiveness and responsiveness of the European civil security industry, in the application areas of security, resilience of critical and dual-use infrastructures, technologies including critical energy infrastructure, and solutions for the control of goods and persons at borders, the protection of borders, maritime security, customs security and civil preparedness against security threats, as well as reinforcing the capabilities of the relevant end-users in the civil security sector.(4) For support to civil industrial security, the specific objectives of strengthening the competitiveness and responsiveness of the European civil security industry, in the application areas of security, resilience of critical and dual-use infrastructures, technologies including critical energy infrastructure, and solutions for the control of goods and persons at borders, the protection of borders, strategic storage facilities for food, agricultural raw materials and inputs, maritime security, customs security and civil preparedness against security threats, as well as reinforcing the capabilities of the relevant end-users in the civil security sector, shall include in particular:
i) reinforcing the interlinked nature of agriculture, rural territories and civil security, including the protection and resilience of critical and dual-use infrastructure, by strengthening the resilience of rural and agricultural areas, particularly in regions exposed to heightened security risks;
ii) promoting innovative farming solutions aimed at increasing autonomy and self-sufficiency at farm and local level, with the objective of reducing dependency on external inputs and enhancing resilience to climate-related, market and security risks.

Amendment 75

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) EUR 20 393 000 000 for the specific objectives referred to in Article 3(2), point (b);(c) EUR 20 393 000 000 for the specific objectives referred to in Article 3(2), point (b), of which at least 50% shall be dedicated to agriculture, food production and food security, ensuring strategic visibility and predictability of Union support for the agricultural and agri-food sectors, including through binding financial ring-fencing providing long-term stability and strategic certainty to these sectors. Within that allocation:
i) at least 25% shall be dedicated to investments in water resilience in the agricultural sector;
ii) a dedicated share shall be allocated to the establishment and operation of a European agricultural reinsurance guarantee mechanism to enhance resilience to climate, market and sanitary risks and contribute to the Union’s food security and strategic autonomy;
iii) at least 15% shall be dedicated to the development of rural areas, including support for food production;
iv) at least 5% shall be dedicated to activities in support of skills development.

Amendment 76

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point d

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) EUR 51 493 000 000 for the specific objectives referred to in Article 3(2), point (c);(d) EUR 51 493 000 000 for the specific objectives referred to in Article 3(2), point (c), of which at least 20% shall be dedicated to digitalisation in the agricultural sector.

Amendment 77

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point e

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(e) EUR 125 204 000 000 for the specific objectives referred to in Article 3(2), point (d);(e) EUR 125 204 000 000 for the specific objectives referred to in Article 3(2), point (d), of which at least 15% shall be ring-fenced for strategic food security measures directly linked to resilience and security, including stockpiling strategies, storage capacity and secure logistics for key agricultural commodities and essential agri-food products.

Amendment 78

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 2 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2a. The allocation of resources under the ECF shall contribute to a balanced territorial distribution of investments across Member States and regions, taking into account their economic and innovation capacities, in order to strengthen convergence, avoid excessive geographical concentration and ensure that all regions benefit from the Fund.

Amendment 79

Proposal for a regulation

Article 7 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. The Commission and Member States shall, in a manner commensurate to their respective responsibilities, facilitate coordination and coherence between European Competitiveness Fund and national and regional partnership plans on common competitiveness priorities in selected key areas and projects deemed of strategic importance and of common European interest.2. The Commission and Member States shall, in a manner commensurate to their respective responsibilities, facilitate coordination and coherence between European Competitiveness Fund and national and regional partnership plans and financial tools on common competitiveness priorities in selected key areas and projects deemed of strategic importance and of common European interest.

Amendment 80

Proposal for a regulation

Article 7 – paragraph 3 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3a. The Commission shall ensure that the ECF and the CAP are coherent and complementary, particularly in supporting the modernisation and competitiveness of the agri-food chain.

Amendment 81

Proposal for a regulation

Article 9 – paragraph 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1a. Innovation supported under ECF shall contribute to productivity, sustainability and resilience without leading to a net reduction of employment, especially in poorer regions where agriculture or forestry constitute a primary source of income and economic activity.

Amendment 82

Proposal for a regulation

Article 9 – paragraph 6 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
6a. When laying down the eligibility criteria, conditions of participation and related procedures for the ECF, the Commission shall ensure that they are proportionate and do not create undue barriers for the applicants in rural areas and less developed regions, taking into account their administrative and financial capacity.

Amendment 83

Proposal for a regulation

Article 9 – paragraph 6 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
6b. In award procedures, allocation criteria shall be designed to ensure a balanced geographical distribution of resources among Member States.

Amendment 84

Proposal for a regulation

Article 12 – paragraph 6

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
6. Union support may be provided in any form in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, in particular grants, prizes, procurement, non-financial donations, budgetary guarantees, and financial instruments.6. Union support may be provided in any form in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, in particular grants, prizes, procurement, non-financial donations, budgetary guarantees, and financial instruments, as well as through equity holdings in fund beneficiary companies of strategic interest.

Amendment 85

Proposal for a regulation

Article 14 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. The members of the ECF Strategic Stakeholders Board shall be appointed by the Commission, following an open call for nominations or for expressions of interest, or both, whichever the Commission finds more appropriate, and taking into account the need for balance in sector, organisation type, including private investors, and size, expertise, gender, age and geographical distribution. The term of members the Board shall be limited to four years, renewable once. Members of the Board should act with integrity and probity.2. The members of the ECF Strategic Stakeholders Board shall be appointed by the Commission, following an open call for nominations or for expressions of interest, or both, whichever the Commission finds more appropriate, and taking into account the need for balance in sector, organisation type, including private investors, and size, expertise, gender, age and geographical distribution, including representation from the outermost regions as they are defined in a specific article in the TFEU. The term of members the Board shall be limited to four years, renewable once. Members of the Board should act with integrity and probity.

Amendment 86

Proposal for a regulation

Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) eligibility and award criteria;(c) eligibility and award criteria based on excellence, supplemented, where appropriate, by criteria relating to economic security and resilience, contribution to the Union’s open strategic autonomy, accessibility of strategic goods and services, integration into European value chains, and ensuring an appropriate geographical balance between Member States;

Amendment 87

Proposal for a regulation

Article 15 – paragraph 1 – point d

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) a single co-financing rate per action for actual cost grants;(d) a single co-financing rate per action for actual cost grants. For actions implemented in the outermost regions, the minimum EU co-financing rate shall be 85%;

Amendment 88

Proposal for a regulation

Article 22 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. The Commission shall in particular develop a Scale-up facility in cooperation with the EIB Group, other international financial institutions and National Promotional Banks. The facility shall provide in a coordinated and consistent manner, a comprehensive set of financing tools tailored to the unique needs of scale-ups, including indirect and direct equity and quasi-equity, venture debt, loans, guarantees and blended finance, with a view to attract private investors in supporting scale up financing and facilitate exit options. The facility shall target SMEs and small mid-cap companies and Mid-cap companies.2. The Commission shall in particular develop a Scale-up facility in cooperation with the EIB Group, other international financial institutions and National Promotional Banks. The facility shall provide in a coordinated and consistent manner, a comprehensive set of financing tools tailored to the unique needs of scale-ups, including indirect and direct equity and quasi-equity, blended finance, tenders, bonuses, lump sums, venture debt, loans, and guarantees, with a view to attract private investors in supporting scale up financing and facilitate exit options. The facility shall target SMEs and small mid-cap companies and Mid-cap companies. The facility shall support first-of-a-kind and scale-up infrastructure in strategic bioeconomy value chains, through blended finance, guarantees and risk-sharing instruments.

Amendment 89

Proposal for a regulation

Article 22 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
4. It will leverage public investment to catalyse substantial private and institutional capital flows, such as from private equity funds, corporates, pension funds, insurance companies, and other long-term investors, thus deepening Europe’s capital markets and fostering sustainable growth of scale-up companies.4. It will leverage public investment to catalyse substantial private and institutional capital flows, such as from private equity funds, corporates, pension funds, insurance companies, and other long-term investors, thus deepening Europe’s capital markets and fostering sustainable growth of scale-up companies. It shall facilitate early testing, validation and deployment of innovations and accelerate their translation into commercially viable solutions, while ensuring close and continuous cooperation with relevant industry stakeholders so that supported innovations respond to market demand.

Amendment 90

Proposal for a regulation

Article 26 – paragraph 4 – subparagraph 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
To this end, this cooperation shall aim, as appropriate:
(a) to ensure effective access to advisory services in all Member States, including through appropriate geographical coverage indicators;
(b) to pursue proactive information and outreach activities in Member States and regions with less developed capital markets or low administrative capacity;
(c) to provide advisory services in a manner that is accessible to beneficiaries, including through the use of national languages and cooperation with local contact points, relevant national structures, representative organisations in the agricultural and rural sector, or the EU for Business Network.

Amendment 91

Proposal for a regulation

Article 27 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. “EU for Business” Network shall be established to help Union businesses become more competitive and innovate, grow and scale in the Single Market and beyond, with a particular emphasis on SMEs, startups, scaleups and small mid-cap companies. The network shall have a Union-wide and geographically balanced coverage, taking into account the specificities of all types of regions in the Union, including the less developed regions and the Union outermost regions.1. “EU for Business” Network shall be established to help Union businesses become more competitive and innovate, grow and scale in the Single Market and beyond, with a particular emphasis on SMEs, startups, scaleups and small mid-cap companies. The network shall have a Union-wide and geographically balanced coverage, taking into account the specificities of all types of regions in the Union, including less developed, and outermost regions and rural areas. With a view to supporting such balanced coverage, the Commission shall, in cooperation with the entities hosting the network, establish and monitor key performance indicators on the accessibility of services across Member States and regions, the number and types of businesses supported, in particular SMEs in less developed and rural regions, and outcomes related to access to funding, participation in Union programmes and capacity building.

Amendment 92

Proposal for a regulation

Article 28 – paragraph 1 – point f

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(f) facilitation access to markets including through support to the internationalisation of SMEs and provision of market intelligence, including in less developed regions and outermost regions;(f) facilitation access to markets including through support to the internationalisation of SMEs and provision of market intelligence, including in less developed, and outermost regions and rural areas;

Amendment 93

Proposal for a regulation

Article 28 – paragraph 1 – point h

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(h) promoting entrepreneurship, including women and youth entrepreneurship and the acquisition of entrepreneurial and business skills.(h) promoting entrepreneurship, including women and youth entrepreneurship and entrepreneurship in rural areas, and the acquisition of entrepreneurial and business skills.

Amendment 94

Proposal for a regulation

Article 28 – paragraph 1 – point h a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ha) supporting the bankability of projects, including through financial structuring, the preparation of business plans, risk assessment and investor documentation, and by facilitating links with private investors, including through matchmaking platforms.

Amendment 95

Proposal for a regulation

Article 30 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. The ECF shall finance activities in support of skills development, in particular in the strategic sectors, building strong links between higher education, vocational education and training providers, applied research and businesses for an agile, innovative and competitive economy. This shall include support for a European Skills Guarantee to support value chain transitions in favour of strategic growth sectors or occupations across the labour market through upskilling and reskilling of the workforce and Vocational Education and Training (VET) partnerships to strengthen cooperation between VET providers and businesses, especially SMEs and connecting them with regional industrial ecosystems.1. The ECF shall finance activities in support of skills development, in particular in the strategic sectors and key areas such as digitalisation, building strong links between higher education, vocational education and training providers, applied research and businesses for an agile, innovative and competitive economy. This shall include support for a European Skills Guarantee to support value chain transitions in favour of strategic growth sectors or occupations across the labour market through upskilling and reskilling of the workforce and Vocational Education and Training (VET) partnerships to strengthen cooperation between VET providers and businesses, especially SMEs and connecting them with regional industrial ecosystems to accelerate the uptake and deployment of research and innovation outcomes.

Amendment 96

Proposal for a regulation

Article 30 – paragraph 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1a. Particular emphasis shall be placed on the digital skills of young farmers and managers of agri-food SMEs to help bridge the innovation gap in rural areas.

Amendment 97

Proposal for a regulation

Article 31 – paragraph 2 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2a. The ECF shall encourage targeted access to funding for projects where companies seek to acquire, license or commercialise - under fair, transparent and market-conform conditions - intellectual property rights, including patents, generated by European universities and public research organisations, in particular where such intellectual property has been developed with support from Union research programmes, including Horizon Europe. This measure shall contribute to strengthening knowledge valorisation, industrial uptake and European value creation.

Amendment 98

Proposal for a regulation

Chapter IV – title

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Support for Clean Transition and Industrial DecarbonisationSupport clean transition and industrial and Fishing Sector decarbonisation policies

Amendment 99

Proposal for a regulation

Article 33 – title

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Specific activities to support clean transition and industrial decarbonisation policiesSupport for Clean Transition and Industrial and fishing sector Decarbonisation

Amendment 100

Proposal for a regulation

Article 33 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. Support for clean transition, and industrial decarbonisation window shall be implemented in particular through the following activities:1. Support for clean transition, and industrial and fishing sector decarbonisation window shall be implemented in particular through the following activities:

Amendment 101

Proposal for a regulation

Article 33 – paragraph 1 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) ”LIFE activities”: providing support to bottom-up projects for the demonstration, testing and market uptake of innovative solutions and best practices in clean transition and industrial decarbonisation and awareness raising on climate and environment to relevant governance levels.(a) "LIFE activities": providing support to bottom-up projects for the demonstration, testing and market uptake of innovative solutions and best practices for the clean transition and industrial decarbonisation, contributing to the objectives of Union environmental legislation and policies, including the circular economy and water resilience; strengthening governance frameworks for long-term environmental and climate risk management and systemic resilience; and supporting decarbonisation synergies in agriculture, including carbon farming, soil fertility restoration, and innovative remote sensing technologies for carbon sequestration monitoring, reporting and emissions reduction, without additional administrative or bureaucratic burdens for farmers.

Amendment 102

Proposal for a regulation

Article 33 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) Energy efficiency, energy storage, demand-response, domestic transmission and distribution grids, digitalisation of energy systems, integrated renewable energy, energy renovations, and heating and cooling solutions, systems and services.(b) Energy efficiency, energy storage, demand-response, domestic transmission and distribution grids, digitalisation of energy systems, integrated renewable energy, energy renovations, and heating and cooling solutions, systems and services, including through energy communities and heat networks.

Amendment 103

Proposal for a regulation

Article 33 – paragraph 1 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) Clean energy and decarbonisation solutions in industry, including electrification of energy intensive industries and carbon capture, storage and utilisation (CCS/CCU), and in cities, in particular for energy, transport and buildings.(c) Clean energy and decarbonisation solutions in industry, including electrification of energy intensive industries, including greenhouse-based horticultural production, and carbon capture, storage and utilisation (CCS/CCU), and in cities in particular for energy, transport and buildings.

Amendment 104

Proposal for a regulation

Article 33 – paragraph 1 – point d

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) Sourcing, production, storage, distribution and uptake of sustainable fuels, facilitating decarbonisation of mobility.(d) Sourcing, production, storage, distribution and uptake of sustainable fuels, including sustainable biofuels and other renewable fuels, facilitating decarbonisation of mobility and transport.

Amendment 105

Proposal for a regulation

Article 33 – paragraph 1 – point i

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(i) Circular economy, water efficiency, ocean health and environmental policy, including solutions to protect, restore and improve the quality of the environment, including the air, water, marine and soil, and to halt and reverse biodiversity loss and to tackle the degradation of ecosystem, sustainable solutions for climate action in agri-food and forestry supply chains.(i) Circular economy, water efficiency, ocean health and environmental policy, including solutions to protect, restore and improve the quality of the environment, including the air, water, marine and soil, and to halt and reverse biodiversity loss and to tackle the degradation of ecosystem, more sustainable, agroecological solutions for climate, water, soil and biodiversity action in agri-food and forestry supply chains.

Amendment 106

Proposal for a regulation

Article 33 – paragraph 1 – point j

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(j) Climate and water resilience.(j) Water resilience, including measures contributing to modernising water-related infrastructure, sustainable management and efficient use of water resources across sectors and activities, reducing water losses.

Amendment 107

Proposal for a regulation

Article 33 – paragraph 2 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2 a. Support provided for actions contributing to the energy transition shall ensure affordable and accessible energy solutions for rural areas and shall not increase the risk of energy poverty or economic exclusion of rural households and businesses.

Amendment 108

Proposal for a regulation

Chapter V – title

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
SUPPORT FOR HEALTH, BIOTECH, AGRICULTURE AND BIOECONOMYSUPPORT FOR HEALTH, BIOTECH, AGRICULTURE, FOOD PRODUCTION, FOOD SECURITY AND BIOECONOMY

Amendment 109

Proposal for a regulation

Article 36 – title

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Specific provisions for support to health, biotech, agriculture and bioeconomy policiesSpecific provisions for support to health, biotech, agriculture, food production, food security and bioeconomy policies

Amendment 110

Proposal for a regulation

Article 36 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. Actions supported under this chapter shall contribute to the general objectives set out in Article 3(1) and the specific objectives set out in Article 3(2), point (b).1. Actions supported under this chapter shall contribute to the general objectives set out in Article 3(1) and the specific objectives set out in Article 3(2), point (b). The allocation of support under this Chapter shall take into account the strategic role of food security, agricultural resilience and the agri-food value chain for the Union.

Amendment 111

Proposal for a regulation

Article 36 – paragraph 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1a. A dedicated agriculture window shall be established under this Chapter, complementary to the CAP, to support structural investments strengthening the competitiveness, sustainability and resilience of agricultural systems in the Union. The Commission shall ensure coherence, complementarity and non-duplication with the CAP and, within the financial planning framework, provide for an indicative budget allocation for this window.

Amendment 112

Proposal for a regulation

Article 37 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. Support for Health, Biotech, Agriculture and Bioeconomy policy shall be implemented in particular through the following activities:1. Support for Health, Biotech, Agriculture, Food Production, Food Security and Bioeconomy policy shall be implemented in particular through the following activities:

Amendment 113

Proposal for a regulation

Article 37 – paragraph 1 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) Improving and protecting health, including cross-border health, by prioritising health promotion and disease prevention across the life course through a health-in-all and One Health policies approach, with a special emphasis on communicable and non-communicable diseases, including mental health, degenerative health, autism, cardiovascular diseases, cancer and other non-communicable diseases, including those related to pollution, sexual and reproductive health and enhancing international health initiatives and cooperation.(a) Improving and protecting health, including cross-border health, by prioritising health promotion and disease prevention across the life course through innovation and a Health in All policies and One Health approach including the human–animal–environment interface, with a special emphasis on communicable and non-communicable diseases, including mental health, chronic and degenerative conditions, cardiovascular, and rare diseases, cancer and other diseases including those related to environmental factors, antimicrobial resistance and sexual and reproductive health, and by enhancing global health initiatives and cooperation. This shall also include ensuring access to healthy and safe food through the protection and promotion of plant health and sustainable agricultural practices.

Amendment 114

Proposal for a regulation

Article 37 – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(aa) Preventing and combating animal diseases, including transboundary diseases, by strengthening monitoring, early warning systems and cross-border cooperation, and by supporting the development and deployment of vaccines, including differentiation of infected from vaccinated animals (DiVA vaccines), as well as diagnostic tools and digital technologies, and by promoting animal health and preventing zoonotic risks affecting food safety and agricultural production, thereby contributing to public health, agri-food chain resilience and food security.

Amendment 115

Proposal for a regulation

Article 37 – paragraph 1 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) Fostering the development, production capacity, manufacturing and industrial deployment of health and bioeconomy technologies, to increase the competitiveness of the sector, and ensure availability of Union medicinal products, medical devices, digital solutions and medical countermeasures relevant for preparedness and response to cross-border threats to health, as well as the competitiveness and resilience of the sectors by ensuring that such products are innovative, safe, accessible, available, and affordable, thereby promoting equitable access across the Union.(c) Fostering the development, production capacity, manufacturing and industrial deployment of health and bioeconomy technologies, to increase the competitiveness of the sector, and ensure availability of Union medicinal products, medical devices, digital solutions and medical countermeasures relevant for preparedness and response to cross-border threats to health, including animal health, as well as biotechnological applications in agriculture, such as plant and animal breeding, biocontrol products and feed additives, as well as the competitiveness and resilience of the sectors by ensuring that such products are innovative, safe, accessible, available, and affordable, thereby promoting equitable access across the Union.

Amendment 116

Proposal for a regulation

Article 37 – paragraph 1 – point d

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) Supporting the discovery, development, derisking, demonstration, piloting and use, and scaling-up of biotechnology innovations, accelerating the market introduction and market uptake of biotechnology solutions, strengthening emerging value chains and providing access to finance and other support for SMEs, startups, scale ups and innovators.(d) Fostering the discovery, development, derisking, demonstration, piloting, use, and scaling-up of biotechnology innovations, including applications relevant for agriculture and food security, while underlining the need to conduct proper impact assessments based on scientific evidence and taking into account all the aspects related to safety, environment, market and protection of consumers before applying food technologies; accelerating the market introduction and market uptake of biotechnology solutions, strengthening emerging value chains and providing access to finance and other support for SMEs, startups, scale ups and innovators, in compliance with Union food and feed safety legislation and risk assessment requirements.

Amendment 117

Proposal for a regulation

Article 37 – paragraph 1 – point f

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(f) Fostering an innovative and competitive bioeconomy sector in the Union, including in the areas of health biotech, biobased materials and products, valorising farm and forest residues, carbon negative products, biomanufacturing and biochemicals, in particular by supporting the discovery, development, derisking, demonstration, piloting, and scaling-up of bioeconomy innovations; by accelerating the market introduction and market uptake of bio-based materials from agriculture and forestry and bioeconomy solutions; by strengthening emerging value chains; by building a skilled workforce, by providing access to finance and other support for SMEs, startups, scale ups and innovators.(f) Fostering an innovative, circular and competitive bioeconomy sector in the Union where food uses take precedence over non-food uses, including in the areas of health biotechnology, biobased materials and advanced products, and the valorisation of farm, horticultural and forest residues and food waste and related industrial by-products, biomanufacturing and biochemicals, in particular by supporting the discovery, development, derisking, demonstration, piloting, and scaling-up of bioeconomy innovations; by accelerating the market introduction and market uptake of bio-based materials, including from agriculture and forestry and bioeconomy solutions such as digestate as bio-fertiliser; by strengthening emerging value chains; by building a skilled workforce, by providing access to finance and other support for SMEs, startups, scale ups, spin-offs and innovators, including by ensuring broad and equal access to funding across the entire biosolutions sector, and by ensuring that bioeconomy and bio-based innovation activities take into account territorial dimensions and local adaptation needs, in particular in rural areas.

Amendment 118

Proposal for a regulation

Article 37 – paragraph 1 – point g

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(g) Fostering the competitiveness, the sustainability, the resilience and fairness of agriculture, fisheries, aquaculture, forestry sectors and rural and coastal areas, and contribute to long term food security in the Union.(g) Fostering the competitiveness, sustainability, resilience, economic viability, productivity, and fairness of agriculture, food and feed production, horticulture, fisheries, aquaculture, forestry sectors, and rural and coastal areas and outermost regions, while supporting the transition to, climate-resilient, water-smart economy and contributing to long-term food security and sovereignty in the Union. Those actions shall include support for:
i) research, innovation, development and uptake of solutions across the agrifood value chain, including biotechnologies, new genomic techniques, digital solutions and precision farming, as well as solutions supporting plant and animal health, including veterinary medicines, vaccines, surveillance systems and approaches addressing antimicrobial resistance, and promoting animal welfare. This shall also include the development and deployment of sustainable and low-impact plant protection solutions, including integrated pest management, biocontrol and related approaches, as well as innovation in plant and animal breeding and other production-related technologies;
ii) investments across the agri-food value chain, including farm-level processing, value-added production and related processing, marketing, storage, logistics and digitalisation infrastructure for farms and agri-food businesses. This shall include infrastructure, technologies and management practices improving resource efficiency and sustainability of production systems, water storage and retention, irrigation infrastructure, reuse of treated water and circular water systems, digital monitoring and precision management tools, and solutions reducing water losses and strengthening resilience to droughts and water scarcity;
iii) cooperation among farmers, cooperatives, producer organisations, SMEs and other value-chain actors, combined with knowledge exchange, advisory services, training and improved market access;
iv) deployment and uptake of sustainable and resilient agricultural production systems and improved management practices at farm level;
v) risk-management tools, including insurance and agricultural reinsurance mechanisms to address climatic, water-related, sanitary and market risks affecting farmers and agri-food actors;
vi) monitoring and assessment of the impact of Union trade agreements on agricultural markets, producers’ income and production standards.

Amendment 119

Proposal for a regulation

Article 37 – paragraph 1 – point h

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(h) Supporting actions for the development, implementation, monitoring and enforcement of relevant Union legislation and policy. This includes supporting the relevant institutions, the cooperation between national authorities and with stakeholders, studies, the development and deployment of tools and infrastructures, including IT infrastructure and tools.(h) Supporting actions for the development, implementation, monitoring and enforcement of relevant Union legislation and policy. This includes supporting the relevant institutions, cooperation between national authorities and stakeholders, studies and practical training, and the development and deployment of tools and infrastructures, including digital, AI and IT tools, to address climate challenges and prevent and combat the spread of pathogens and plant diseases.

Amendment 120

Proposal for a regulation

Article 37 – paragraph 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1a. Support for Health, Biotech, Agriculture, Food Production, Food Security and Bioeconomy policy shall ensure effective participation of farmers, cooperatives, farmers’ organisations and rural SMEs, notably through capacity-building, simplified procedures, appropriate funding mechanisms and support for participation in transnational consortia and, where appropriate, differentiated or increased co-financing rates. Funded projects shall apply a balanced multi-actor approach ensuring the meaningful involvement of primary producers and rural actors, with public-private partnerships playing a complementary role.

Amendment 121

Proposal for a regulation

Article 37 – paragraph 1 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1b. The Commission shall ensure coherence between Union objectives and national implementation, particularly in agriculture and rural areas, and involve decision-makers in the co-design and implementation of actions so that research and innovation effectively inform policy. Food security and food sovereignty shall be recognised as strategic Union priorities, supported by dedicated resources.

Amendment 122

Proposal for a regulation

Article 37 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. Work programmes adopted in accordance with the rules of this Regulation under this chapter shall integrate in a specific dedicated part and ensure coherence with [Competitiveness and Society activities supported under the Regulation (EU) [XXX] [Horizon Europe Framework programme for Research and Innovation2. Work programmes adopted in accordance with the rules of this Regulation under this chapter shall integrate in a specific dedicated part and ensure coherence with [Competitiveness and Society activities supported under the Regulation (EU) [XXX] [Horizon Europe Framework programme for Research and Innovation] and, for activities referred to in paragraph 1(g), with corresponding initiatives supported by the Common Agricultural Policy and the Common Market Organisation regulations. They shall reflect the specificities of beneficiaries, in particular micro and small entities, by promoting simplified funding approaches, proportionate and, where appropriate, differentiated co-financing rates, and balanced participation across the value chain.

Amendment 123

Proposal for a regulation

Article 39 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. Support for digital leadership shall address, in a comprehensive and coherent manner, the entire scope of the digital sector, such as Artificial Intelligence, (including AI Factories and Gigafactories), high performance computing, quantum technologies, semiconductors and photonics, robotics, large data technologies, telco-edge and cloud technologies, 6G and other wireless technologies, communication networks, advanced connectivity, including 6G and other wireless technologies, sensing technologies, cybersecurity and network resilience, software engineering, augmented reality and virtual worlds, digital twins, Union digital identity and business wallets, trust technologies, new and emerging digital technologies as well as cross-sectoral digital technologies and applications, including those with dual-use potential, support for data technologies and data spaces.1. Support for digital leadership shall address, in a comprehensive and coherent manner, the entire scope of the digital sector, while ensuring that digital solutions and infrastructures are deployable across diverse economic sectors and territories, such as Artificial Intelligence, (including AI Factories and Gigafactories), high performance computing, quantum technologies, semiconductors and photonics, robotics, large data technologies, telco-edge and cloud technologies, 6G and other wireless technologies, communication networks, advanced connectivity, including 6G and other wireless technologies, sensing technologies, cybersecurity and network resilience, software engineering, augmented reality and virtual worlds, digital twins, Union digital identity and business wallets, trust technologies, new and emerging digital technologies as well as cross-sectoral digital technologies and applications, including those with dual-use potential, support for data technologies and data spaces.

Amendment 124

Proposal for a regulation

Article 39 – paragraph 2 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) Achieving leadership in digital and AI technologies through research and innovation, applied research, technology transfer, industrial deployment, and market uptake. The implementation shall include, but not be limited to, developing and shaping sustainable core digital technologies that reflect Union values, safeguard the Union’s security and foster its competitiveness globally.(a) Achieving leadership in digital and AI technologies through research and innovation, applied research, technology transfer, industrial deployment, and market uptake. The implementation shall include, but not be limited to, developing and shaping sustainable core digital technologies that reflect Union values, and support their uptake throughout economic sectors, safeguard the Union’s security and foster its competitiveness globally.

Amendment 125

Proposal for a regulation

Article 39 – paragraph 2 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) Enabling the power of digital for businesses and citizens by deploying state-of-the-art and sustainable digital applications, infrastructures and services across the Union. The implementation shall include, but not be limited to, actions to research and innovate, develop, produce, manufacture, or deploy advanced digital infrastructures at scale across the Union (e.g. high-performance computing, telco-cloud-edge, AI Factories and Gigafactories, data and data spaces, testing and experimentation facilities, semiconductor, photonics and quantum chips pilot lines, quantum computing, communication and sensing infrastructures, cybersecurity hubs, the EU for Business Network, European Digital Innovation Hubs, advanced connectivity infrastructures including submarine cables and non-terrestrial networks), the EU Digital Identity Wallets and trust services as well as the European Business Wallets and services, secure and interoperable digital public infrastructure, to act as a key enabler of the digital transformation and in support of societal resilience and preparedness, bringing clear added-value to businesses, public services and citizens. Where relevant, these actions shall be coordinated with national investments and shall otherwise exploit untapped potential to create a domestic market for advanced digital technologies ‘made in Europe’. Such actions may be provided under the framework of Multi-Country Projects established in accordance with Decision (EU) 2022/2481, including notably those implemented through the European Digital Infrastructure Consortia or Joint Undertakings.(c) Enabling the power of digital for businesses and citizens by deploying state-of-the-art and sustainable digital applications, infrastructures and services across the Union, while reducing structural digital divides linked to geography, including rural and remote areas, and addressing sector- specific needs, in particular in agriculture and agri-food sector. The implementation shall include, but not be limited to, actions to research and innovate, develop, produce, manufacture, or deploy advanced digital infrastructures at scale across the Union (e.g. high-performance computing, telco-cloud-edge, AI Factories and Gigafactories, data and data spaces, testing and experimentation facilities, semiconductor, photonics and quantum chips pilot lines, quantum computing, communication and sensing infrastructures, cybersecurity hubs, the EU for Business Network, European Digital Innovation Hubs, advanced connectivity infrastructures including submarine cables and non-terrestrial networks), the EU Digital Identity Wallets and trust services as well as the European Business Wallets and services, secure and interoperable digital public infrastructure, to act as a key enabler of the digital transformation and in support of societal resilience and preparedness, bringing clear added-value to businesses, public services and citizens. Where relevant, these actions shall be coordinated with national investments and shall otherwise exploit untapped potential to create a domestic market for advanced digital technologies ‘made in Europe’. Such actions may be provided under the framework of Multi-Country Projects established in accordance with Decision (EU) 2022/2481, including notably those implemented through the European Digital Infrastructure Consortia or Joint Undertakings.

Amendment 126

Proposal for a regulation

Article 39 – paragraph 2 – point d

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) Supporting the Union’s digital transformation of public and private sectors, including to support the development and the circulation of digital skills. The implementation shall include, but not be limited to, providing the necessary support to accelerating and deepening the uptake and deployment of digital solutions across economic sectors, through research, innovation and deployment, to boost their productivity and competitiveness, with a focus on more complex technologies, as well as to achieve societal benefits. Support to public sector applications as well as the broader digitalisation of the public sector shall aim at ensuring a cohesive Union-wide interoperable digital public services landscape, support technological sovereignty, maximising their efficiency for businesses and citizens. The digital transformation of economic and public sectors shall also be supported by the other sectoral windows of the ECF.(d) Supporting the Union’s digital transformation of public and private sectors, including to support the development and the circulation of digital skills. The implementation shall include, but not be limited to, providing the necessary support to accelerating and deepening the uptake and deployment of digital solutions across economic sectors, through research, innovation and deployment, to boost their productivity and competitiveness, with a focus but not limited to more complex technologies, as well as to achieve societal benefits. Support to public sector applications as well as the broader digitalisation of the public sector shall aim at ensuring a cohesive Union-wide interoperable digital public services landscape, support technological sovereignty, maximising their efficiency for businesses and citizens. The digital transformation of economic and public sectors shall also be supported by the other sectoral windows of the ECF.

Amendment 127

Proposal for a regulation

Article 39 – paragraph 2 – point d a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(da) Accelerating the digital transformation of agriculture and the agri-food chain by supporting robotics, precision agriculture, automated data collection and transmission, and advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence and remote sensing, to reduce input use and external dependencies, lower greenhouse gas emissions and improve resource efficiency.

Amendment 128

Proposal for a regulation

Article 42 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. Support to Resilience policy shall reinforce the strategic autonomy, economic security and the resilience of the Union industry by strengthening the different stages of the raw materials value chain, including through diversification of the supply of critical raw materials from third countries.1. Support to Resilience policy shall reinforce the strategic autonomy, economic security and the resilience of the Union industry by strengthening the different stages of the agri-food and the raw materials value chains, including through production in the Union and the diversification of the supply of critical raw materials from third countries.

Amendment 129

Proposal for a regulation

Article 42 – paragraph 2 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) purchasing of raw materials, in line with economic security needs and the green and digital transition objectives, in order to reduce the risk of supply disruptions for companies in the EU, including for establishing and managing stockpiles of critical raw materials in coordination with Member States and industry;(b) purchasing of raw materials, in line with economic and food security needs and the green and digital transition objectives, in order to reduce the risk of supply disruptions for companies in the EU, including for establishing and managing stockpiles of critical raw materials in coordination with Member States and industry as well as supporting investments in logistics, transport and storage infrastructure relevant to food security, including strategic storage capacities and port facilities, with a view to strengthening the Union’s preparedness and resilience to disruptions, crises or conflicts and ensuring the continuous supply to the internal market;

Amendment 130

Proposal for a regulation

Article 42 – paragraph 2 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) financial support to Strategic Projects under the Critical Raw Materials Act in line with economic security needs and the green and digital transition objectives.(c) financial support to Strategic Projects under the Critical Raw Materials Act in line with economic security needs and the green and digital transition objectives, including the development and upgrading of infrastructure for the storage of agricultural raw materials and inputs.

Amendment 131

Proposal for a regulation

Article 43 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. Strategic projects under CRMA and strategic projects foreseen in relevant sectoral legislation may apply the rules in Article 20.1. Strategic projects under CRMA and strategic projects foreseen in relevant sectoral legislation, including large-scale manufacturing of specialised agricultural machinery, robotics, and sensors that reduce chemical inputs or labour dependency may apply the rules in Article 20.

Justification

To secure a place for agri-related innovation under ECF, strategic projects must also include projects related to the sector. The EU must manufacture the tools (robotics, AI-driven tractors) that enable that competitiveness, rather than relying on imports.

Amendment 132

Proposal for a regulation

Article 47 – paragraph 1 – point f a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(fa) investing in the stockpiling of strategic agricultural inputs and food products.

Amendment 133

Proposal for a regulation

Article 52 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. For actions referred to in Article 44(1), point (a), the Union support may cover up to 100% of the eligible costs.1. For actions referred to in Article 37 (1), point (g) and Article 44(1), point (a), the Union support may cover up to 100% of the eligible costs

Amendment 134

Proposal for a regulation

Article 52 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
4. For actions referred to in Article 44(1), point (c), the Union support may cover up to 50% of the eligible costs.4. For actions referred to in Article 44(1), point (c), the Union support may cover up to 100% of the eligible costs.

Amendment 135

Proposal for a regulation

Article 60 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. Copernicus shall also support the formulation, implementation and monitoring of the Union’s and its Member States’ policies in particular in the fields of environment, climate change, marine, maritime, atmosphere, agriculture and rural development, preservation of cultural heritage, civil protection, infrastructure monitoring, safety and security, as well as digital economy, under the Digital Leadership window, which shall be aligned with the objective of Copernicus.2. Copernicus shall also support the formulation, implementation and monitoring of the Union’s and its Member States’ policies in particular in the fields of environment, resilience to extreme weather events, marine, maritime, atmosphere, agriculture and rural development, preservation of cultural heritage, civil protection, infrastructure monitoring, safety and security, as well as digital economy, under the Digital Leadership window, which shall be aligned with the objective of Copernicus.

Amendment 136

Proposal for a regulation

Article 80 – paragraph 1 – point d a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(da) the establishment, modernisation and protection of strategic food storage facilities and related logistical infrastructure, as essential components of civil preparedness and the resilience of critical supply chains;

Amendment 137

Proposal for a regulation

Article 82 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Article 82a
Outermost regions
In accordance with Article 349 TFEU, specific measures may be taken under the ECF in respect of the outermost regions, including adaptations and derogations on the basis of the permanent structural constraints they face.

Justification

As is acknowledged in Article 349 TFEU, the outermost regions face permanent structural constraints such that Union policies and instruments should be adapted accordingly. Including this specific provision in the ECF Regulation seeks to ensure that the Fund is implemented effectively, proportionately and in a manner commensurate with local conditions, while ensuring that the specific characteristics of the outermost regions pose no obstacles to making use of instruments designed to support competitiveness and innovation.

Amendment 138

Proposal for a regulation

Article 83 – paragraph 1 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) Health, Biotech, Agriculture and Bioeconomy Committee for matters concerning specific objectives set out in Article 3(2), point (b);(c) Health, Biotech, Agriculture, Food Production and Food Security and Bioeconomy Committee for matters concerning specific objectives set out in Article 3(2), point (b);
Annex: declaration of input 4 paragraphs

Pursuant to Article 8 of Annex I to the Rules of Procedure, the rapporteur for opinion declares that he included in his opinion input on matters pertaining to the subject of the file that he received, in the preparation of the opinion, prior to the adoption thereof in committee, from the following interest representatives falling within the scope of the Interinstitutional Agreement on a mandatory transparency register, or from the following representatives of public authorities of third countries, including their diplomatic missions and embassies:

1. Interest representatives falling within the scope of the Interinstitutional Agreement on a mandatory transparency register
Copa-Cogeca
Farm Europe
Eat Europe
Federalimentare
Farm Europe
2. Representatives of public authorities of third countries, including their diplomatic missions and embassies

The list above is drawn up under the exclusive responsibility of the rapporteur for opinion.

Where natural persons are identified in the list by their name, by their function or by both, the rapporteur for opinion declares that he has submitted to the natural persons concerned the European Parliament's Data Protection Notice No 484 (https://www.europarl.europa.eu/data-protect/index.do), which sets out the conditions applicable to the processing of their personal data and the rights linked to that processing.

Procedure pages

How the committees handled the text, and how their members voted on it.

Procedure – committee asked for opinion 1 paragraph
TitleEstablishing the European Competitiveness Fund (’ECF’), including the specific programme for defence research and innovation activities
ReferencesCOM(2025)0555 – C10-0165/2025 – 2025/0555(COD)
Committee(s) responsible Date announced in plenaryITRE 23.10.2025
Opinion by Date announced in plenaryAGRI 23.10.2025
Rapporteur for opinion Date appointedCarlo Fidanza 5.1.2026
Discussed in committee12.1.202628.1.202618.3.2026
Date adopted5.5.2026
Result of final vote+: –: 0:35 2 8
Final vote by roll call by the committee asked for opinion 3 paragraphs

35 · For

ECR
Waldemar Buda, Carlo Fidanza, Bert-Jan Ruissen, Jessika van Leeuwen, Veronika Vrecionová
ESN
Zsuzsanna Borvendég, Ivan David
No group
Katarína Roth Neveďalová
EPP
Carmen Crespo Díaz, Salvatore De Meo, Regina Doherty, Herbert Dorfmann, Lena Düpont, Krzysztof Hetman, Sérgio Humberto, Willemien Koning, Norbert Lins, Marion Walsmann, Marta Wcisło
Patriots
Tomáš Kubín, Raffaele Stancanelli
Renew
Asger Christensen, Barry Cowen, Jérémy Decerle, Elsi Katainen, Ciaran Mullooly
S&D
Stefano Bonaccini, André Franqueira Rodrigues, Maria Grapini, Camilla Laureti, Cristina Maestre, Dario Nardella, Dan Nica, Maria Noichl, Eric Sargiacomo

2 · Against

The Left
Sebastian Everding, Luke Ming Flanagan

8 · Abstained

Patriots
Mireia Borrás Pabón, Mélanie Disdier, Csaba Dömötör, Gilles Pennelle
Greens
Cristina Guarda, Martin Häusling, Nicolae Ștefănuță, Thomas Waitz