Gerhards said the ministry plans to introduce a support program for small farmers who live in the countryside and engage in farming on the side.
Farmers with livestock who cultivate at least 0.3 hectares of land and officially live in the countryside could qualify for state support of up to €1,250, he said.
According to ministry estimates up to 15,000 small farmers could qualify for support with funds earmarked for the task in the state budget.
The subsidy for small farmers is still subject to approval by the Saeima but should it be approved the program will become operational starting 2020.
