The Rural Payments Agency (RPA) has opened up bidding for EU funding to promote fresh produce.

Trade organisations are invited to apply for the cash over the next two months. The money can be used towards promotion and information programmes for EU farm produce. The aim is to raise awareness and increase sales of EU products, including fresh produce.

Growers and other producers may apply for up to 60 per cent funding for promoting fruit and vegetables intended specifically for children in EU schools or up to 50 per cent for other promotional activity.

The application process for the two schemes, one for internal markets (EU countries) and another external markets (rest of the world), are combined. There are two opportunities to apply each year under both schemes. The deadline for this tranche is 15 April. The RPA said applicants may apply under either or both promotions schemes but cannot submit a combined application covering both schemes.

Applicants are expected to fund at least 20 per cent of the total cost of the programme and can choose either to pay the remaining balance themselves or to finance it by industry levy. Full details are available from the RPA website rpa.defra.gov.uk