Yet, a closer look at the share of trade in agricultural production and consumption reveals a far more complex picture. Certain sectors—such as cereals, alcoholic beverages, pork, and dairy—export a substantial share of their output (up to 30%), reflecting a proactive and competitive stance. In contrast, other segments like fruit, vegetable oils, and oilseeds rely heavily on imports, which can account for more than a third of domestic consumption.

 

These imbalances are further accentuated by highly variable and consistent tariff protections: customs duties range from as low as 0.3% for oilseeds to nearly 60% for sugar and beef—sectors that appear particularly sensitive to market liberalization. European agriculture, therefore, emerges as a diverse and fragmented landscape, shaped by conflicting commercial dynamics across exporting, importing, and protected sectors.

Further reading: Trade aspects of the Strategic Dialogue on the future of the EU agriculture and the impact of trade on the competitiveness and sustainability of European agriculture.