Quality and organic products are a key part of the Common Agricultural Policy and an important Objective of Rural Development Policy. In fact enhancing food quality throughout Europe partly depends on the EU’s rural development policy. support and opportunities for effective implementation depends on actions in each Member State. However, how we define quality is crucial.

Agriculture remains an essential driver of the rural economy in most of Europe. The vitality and potential of many rural areas is closely linked to the presence of a competitive and dynamic food and farming sector, attractive to young farmers, consumers and citizens alike. Consumers around the world know that the EU’s agri-food sector has a reputation for high quality, thanks to hard work, investment, innovation and attention to excellence. Food and beverages produced in the EU are synonymous with quality and a rich diversity of products, reflecting the various traditions and regions across Europe. Foods with additional selling points, including those associated with fair and ethical trading relationships, and/or local, traditional and regionally specific products, are also important.