European agri-food cooperatives call for greater EU investment in R&D&I

European agri-food cooperatives , through Copa-Cogeca , are calling for a significant increase in R&D&I investment in the European Union. This organization, which represents more than 22 million farmers and 22,000 agricultural cooperatives , has joined a manifesto signed by 110 associations and organizations from various technological and industrial sectors.

Support for the European Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (PM10)

The manifesto, signed in early July, urges EU institutions to increase the budget allocated to R&D&I in the next European Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (FP10). The signatory organizations emphasize the importance of pan-European collaborative research as a cornerstone of the program.

Need to increase Europe's technological competitiveness

Cooperatives and associations believe that Europe is lagging behind in the global technological race, especially in private investment in R&D&I. This limits the EU's ability to maximize its scientific and technological potential. Increasing private investment in R&D&I is crucial for Europe's long-term competitiveness.

Importance of public investments in R&D&I

The EU Framework Programme plays a vital role in this area, as public investment is essential to offset market failures and stimulate private investment , reducing its inherent risks. The organizations urge the EU to increase the current R&D&I budget with a view to FP10, thus ensuring a commitment to European technological leadership.

Promotion of public-private collaboration

The 10th Framework Programme should foster knowledge exchange between the public and private sectors, as well as between basic and applied research. This is essential, they believe, for:

• Establish long-term public-private partnerships (PPPs) based on trust, strengthening European R&D ecosystems and ensuring the adoption and expansion of innovative technologies.
• Reducing risk and uncertainty by stimulating private investment in Europe and demonstrating EU support for technology-intensive sectors, preserving technological neutrality, and ensuring a level playing field in the internal market.

Conclusion

The organizations signing the manifesto believe that a commitment to adequate investment in R&D&I is essential to improving European competitiveness, supporting the green and digital transitions, and ensuring the well-being and quality of life of European citizens.