European Parliament Seeking New Restrictions on Pesticides in Ag Imports

The European Parliament's Environment Committee this week passed a sustainable pesticides regulation that could set new limits on imported agricultural goods and food products, along with other pesticide-related bans. The measures, approved 47-37, with 2 abstentions, would require the European Commission to “examine the differences in the use of pesticides” on imported agricultural and agri-food products by 2025 and potentially propose measures to “ensure imports meet EU-equivalent standards,” the European Parliament said in a news release. It also would prohibit exports of pesticides not approved in the EU.

The European Parliament is expected to officially adopt the measures during the November plenary session. Members then will begin negotiations with EU member states on the proposal.