Status of EU discussions on French national measures to ban five active substances

On 9^th January, France notified WTO of its intentions to ban any foodstuffs from non-EU countries that would contain residues of glufosinate (potatoes), mancozeb, thiophanate-methyl, carbendazim, benomyl given the risks to human health on an interim basis.

The suspension concerns various fruits, vegetables, cereals, mushrooms and algae.  These measures entered into force on 8^th January. These measures will stay in place for one year or until the EU applies appropriate measures.

EU Commission view at the regulatory committee on 20^th January was that an EU wide ban was not justified as most of the actives targeted were deemed safe by EFSA.  The EU noted that a draft to lower MRLs for thiophanate-methyl, carbendazim, benomyl to LOQ    was already planned.  EFSA is already mandated to perform full toxicological review properties of MRLs for glufosinate.  The EU reference lab is working on suitable analytical methods for dithiocarbonates due to complexity of detecting mancozeb, thereafter appropriate MRLs will be set in 2027.

EU member states:16 EU member states do not support France, 5 member states support, 4 member states have not expressed an opinion with one Member State in favour of taking similar steps as France.

As there was no qualified majority in favour, the Commission decided not to take any action at EU Level but continue ongoing actions as already planned and announced.

Please find attached a free translation of the French Order but we advise you to refer to the Official French text for full details.

Disclaimer
All Gafta Circulars and Notices are provided to Members purely for the purposes of information. We have not taken any steps to verify the accuracy of the information provided and, accordingly, Members must obtain their own independent professional advice as to its content and effect. We cannot accept any liability, howsoever arising, for any loss or damage which may be caused by any reliance on any information contained in a Gafta Circular or Notice.