Potential legal obstacles have emerged that could prevent Denmark’s Mariann Fischer Boel from becoming the European Union’s new agriculture commissioner.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more


Claims have been made that because she owns a farm, (that is run by her husband), that she is in a conflict of interest with her potential new job.


The argument focuses on the fact that the farm – like most others – receives substantial EU subsidies. This could break EU rules, and the Commission says that its lawyers are investigating the issue.


Meanwhile, incoming Commission president José Durão Barroso says he has complete “confidence” in Fischer Boel, who says has been stressing the fact that her husband runs the family farm and that her personal business affairs had not caused problems in her current post of Denmark’s agriculture minister.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Food Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Food Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving food industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now