Agricultural Advisory Services: Supporting Farmers in a Complex Era

Today’s farmers operate in an increasingly complex environment. Beyond food production, they must respond to challenges that directly affect their income and long-term sustainability, including climate change, rising input costs, and growing environmental requirements. 

At the same time, structural issues such as an ageing farming population and limited access to training or digital skills in some regions make adaptation even more difficult. In this context, experience alone is no longer enough. Farmers need continuous access to reliable knowledge, tailored advice, and practical support. This is where agricultural advisory services play a crucial role. 

The role of agricultural advisors 

Agricultural advisors support farmers in making informed decisions in their day-to-day activities. Their role spans a wide range of areas, from selecting appropriate farming practices to managing costs and complying with environmental regulations. Increasingly, they also help farmers adopt new technologies and innovative approaches. 

Their guidance covers key topics such as environmental and climate management, efficient use of inputs, farm business planning, digital tools, and innovation. With the right support, farmers can improve productivity while making their operations more sustainable and competitive. 

The role of the CAP 

In the European Union, the CAP 2023–2027 provides significant support for agricultural advisory services, mainly through rural development measures. This funding helps ensure that farmers across Europe have access to high-quality, independent advice. 

Different approaches across Europe 

Advisory systems vary between countries, reflecting different institutional structures and priorities. However, all Member States can use EU funding to strengthen their services. 

In Belgium, the system is decentralised, with distinct approaches in Flanders and Wallonia. It is closely linked to research institutions and places strong emphasis on innovation and digitalisation. 

In Greece, advisory services are provided by certified professionals and organisations, supervised mainly by ELGO-DIMITRA. Advisors are required to remain independent and free from commercial interests, ensuring objective support for farmers. 

In recent years, Greece has made notable progress, with more advisors entering the system, greater uptake by farmers, and stronger links to innovation. Nevertheless, further improvements are needed, particularly in increasing farmer participation and strengthening connections with universities and research centres. 

As agriculture continues to evolve, the importance of advisory services will only grow. A strong, well-functioning advisory system can help farmers navigate uncertainty, adopt innovation, and meet sustainability goals. Ultimately, it is a key pillar for building a more resilient, competitive, and future-ready agricultural sector in Europe.