Greens demand rent cap for Hesse's agriculture - Hesse's Farmland War: Green Party Pushes Land Acquisition Limits Amid Crisis
A dispute over farmland ownership has erupted in Hesse after the Green Party proposed new rules to limit large-scale purchases. The draft bill aims to cap rental prices and restrict land acquisitions, but the state's agriculture minister has already dismissed the plans as unnecessary regulation.
According to critics, the current system is pushing small farms out of businessâwith one shutting down every two days in the region.
The Green Party's proposal includes a ceiling on land acquisitions and stricter controls on rental costs. Lawmaker Hans-JĂźrgen MĂźller warned that unchecked land concentration threatens local food production and rural communities. He called for greater transparency in land deals to stop large corporations from dominating the market.
Under the draft bill, local farmers would gain stronger rights, and the cost of agricultural land would be regulated. MĂźller argued that without intervention, fewer but larger businesses will control Hesse's farmland.
Agriculture Minister Ingmar Jung (CDU) rejected the plans outright. He claimed the measures would add unnecessary bureaucracy and dismissed concerns about excessive land concentration. Jung insisted the current system does not require additional oversight.
The debate comes as Hesse's farming sector faces growing pressure. With one farm closing every two days, the Green Party insists action is needed to protect smallholders. The government, however, shows no sign of backing the proposed legislation.
