In order to ensure crops in the crown pandemic and at the same time to guarantee health protection, the Federal Minister for Food and Agriculture, Julia Klöckner, together with the Federal Minister for the Interior and with the participation of the Robert Institute Koch, they had a responsible broker for entry in early April. Seasonal workers created. In April and May, 40,000 seasonal workers were allowed in under strict conditions. In late May, the regulation was extended until June 15. Around 39,000 temporary workers have entered the country so far.

Until well into autumn, farmers depend on the support of foreign specialists for harvesting and planting work. Therefore, the Federal Minister today presented a new version of the concept paper in the cabinet. It was developed in close coordination with the Federal Ministry of the Interior, the Federal Ministry of Health and the Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs. It takes into account the current infection and the removal of entry restrictions. The new regulations take effect on June 16 and apply until December 31. Subject to current changes in the pandemic.

Federal Minister Julia Klöckner explains: “The importance of regional food has increased for consumers. But food does not plant and harvest by itself, therefore farmers need seasonal professional help, otherwise our food imports would have to continue to increase. Our degree of self-sufficiency in fruits and vegetables is only less than 40 percent. With the new concept, we create long-term planning security for our farmers and a good supply for our consumers. Until the end of the year, farmers can employ additional temporary workers from abroad. This requires compliance with clear rules. For us, the best possible protection from health and infection remains the priority for everyone involved. This is the only way to do business responsibly in times of the pandemic. We are all interested in our farmers being able to continue harvesting and sowing ”.

The President of the German Farmers Association, Joachim Rukwied, welcomes the Government's decision: "The previous special agreement was very important to ensure the security of the supply of high-quality local food for the population." With the new concept, disinfection and occupational safety measures continue to be the top priority for companies, so hygiene and distance standards must be strictly followed. "