The European Commission has put forward proposals to the Council to sign and conclude a free trade agreement with India. The deal would aim to boost market access, reduce tariffs, cut trade barriers and simplify trade rules. If approved, it could remove tariffs on 96% of EU goods exported to India.

The Commission has also proposed changes to the EU public procurement framework. The amendments would simplify current rules and allow food buyers to consider quality factors including sustainability, organic production, geographical indications, nutrition, seasonality and animal welfare. The proposal also introduces a European preference in procurement. It will now go to the European Parliament and Council for consideration.

In other trade matters, DG SANTE auditors have identified shortcomings in Thai poultry production and processing, citing systemic problems including water controls and traceability. Thailand has submitted an action plan in response. Talks on an EU-Thailand free trade agreement are nearing conclusion, with the next round scheduled for late this month. The European poultry association AVEC has called on the Commission to suspend Thai imports until full compliance with EU standards is proven.

The Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has criticised the EU's ban on Brazilian poultry, stating there was a lack of prior dialogue and that necessary measures have been introduced. Brazil has warned of reciprocal measures if talks are unsatisfactory. The results of EU audits on poultry and honey from Brazil are still pending.

The French government has announced a one billion euro aid package to support its agricultural sector following extreme heatwaves, wildfires and droughts.

In the Netherlands, protests have resumed as the nitrogen debate continues. The Dutch environment agency PBL has estimated that the government's nitrogen plans would reduce agricultural ammonia emissions by 40% by 2035, just short of the 42% target. A blanket 5% cut in livestock numbers could be introduced if other measures fall short, though this is not supported by the current Dutch Agriculture Minister Jaimi van Essen or the BBB farmers party, who are calling for the nitrogen plan to be withdrawn.

Foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks in Greece continue, with 192 outbreaks reported on the island of Lesvos as of the week beginning 10 August. Over 80,000 sheep and goats have been culled. The Greek army will take over coordination as the government and regional authorities clash over outbreak management.