From the HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein, Priv.-Doz. Dr. Andreas Steinwidder, Mag. Christian Fritz and DI Andreas Klingler contributed their specialist knowledge. The interests of farmers were at the center of “Vision 2028+”. In addition, the views and opinions of consumers, researchers, consultants, NGOs and actors from upstream and downstream economic sectors were included and discussed. The central future topics were divided into seven fields of action and dealt with ecological, economic and social dimensions:
- Strengthening entrepreneurship in agriculture
- Further development of quality production
- Climate and environmental protection as well as climate change adaptation
- More added value on the farm
- Sustainable and resilient rural areas
- Digitalization, research and innovation
- Perception and appreciation – dialogue with society
Challenges for Austria's agriculture
Increasing legal requirements and sprawling bureaucracy were identified as the greatest challenges for farmers In particular, the regulations resulting from the EU Commission's Green Deal are perceived as a threat. Added to this is the unpredictable market situation and increasing social demands, while consumers are often unwilling to pay for the high production standards in Austria. Climate change , work overload and a lack of planning security also among the future challenges. The general conditions are changing faster than investment-intensive agriculture can adapt.
Opportunities for Austria's agriculture
Despite the numerous challenges, three quarters of young farmers see the future as positive or neutral . Farmers see opportunities for their businesses in particular in the trend towards regionality and quality as well as in the population's increasing interest in agriculture. several generations live and work together on the farm is also viewed as very positive .
A rural family business as a guiding principle
Based on the strategy results, Federal Minister Norbert Totschnig emphasizes that the family farm remains the guiding principle and the eco-social market economy remains the compass. “My goal is for us to still have a competitive, active agriculture and forestry industry in a vital, rural area in 20 years. To do this, it is necessary to support farmers in further developing their own, viable business model. In addition, digitalization must not only reduce operating costs but also office hours in the next few years. When it comes to the future of our diet , the focus must continue to be on natural and sustainable quality food instead of artificial products from the factory.”