Strengthening Agri-food Systems as a Strategic Pillar of the Africa-Europe Partnership

As African and European Ministers of Agriculture gather for the 6th AU-EU Agriculture Ministerial Conference in Rome, this Policy and Action Brief offers timely and strategic input to support a renewed bi-continental dialogue on agri-food systems. Rooted in the shared ambition for a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future, the Brief responds to the growing recognition that agri-food systems sit at the nexus of climate, trade, health, rural employment, and regional stability and security.

Targeted at ministers, institutional partners, and all actors committed to advancing the Africa-Europe partnership, the Brief positions agri-food systems as a core pillar of cooperation in the lead-up to the 7th AU-EU Heads of State Summit. It translates complex challenges into a focused set of policy priorities, with actionable recommendations on investment, joint cooperation, and regulatory coherence. it is structured around three interconnected themes—strategic alignment, sustainable finance, and equitable trade and market access.

Drawing from African and European frameworks, including the CAADP3 Strategy and the EU’s Vision for the Agri-food Sector to 2040, the Brief seeks to present an integrated set of propositions joint action leading to shared prosperity. With key policy milestones ahead—including Ff4D, UNFSS+4, COP30 in Belém, and the 7th AU-EU Summit—it serves as a practical reference point to align efforts, mobilize resources, and unlock the full potential of Africa-Europe agri-food cooperation.

• Download the AU-EU Policy and Action Brief Produced for the Sixth African Union-European Union Agriculture Ministerial Conference here.