The agriculture ministry has allocated €2.5 million to support the revitalisation of abandoned vineyards, offering funding to very small, small and medium-sized enterprises, it announced on Tuesday.

The scheme, running from March 2026 to December 2029, aims to support businesses in the primary agricultural sector that own, lease or manage around 2,000 acres of vineyard land set for restoration.

Funding will cover works such as uprooting old vines, clearing plots, preparing soil and replanting, primarily with indigenous grape varieties.

According to the ministry, restoring and utilising abandoned vineyards is particularly important, as neglected plots can become significant sources of combustible material.

It added that coordinated interventions are intended to transform abandoned land into actively cultivated areas, which can act as natural firebreaks and help protect forests, farmland and nearby communities.

The scheme will provide grants covering up to 65 per cent of eligible costs, based on predetermined unit rates.

Restoration works at altitudes of up to 799 metres will be eligible for €1,090 per decare, while works at 800 metres and above will receive €1,414 per decare.

Interested parties must apply before starting any work, in accordance with the relevant implementation guidelines.

Applications will be accepted until December 31, 2029, or until the budget is exhausted, with funds allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Further information is available on the agriculture ministry’s website and at local district agricultural offices.