EU's new regulation aims for better protection from plant pests

A new regulation that focuses particularly on the prevention of entry or spread of plant pests within the European Union (EU) territory entered into force on Tuesday, the EU said.

Known as the new Plant Health Regulation, the legislation will repeal and replace seven EU directives on harmful organisms and will become fully applicable on Dec. 13, 2019.

Under this regulation, all member states will have to immediately proceed with the eradication of a quarantine pest if found present in an area where it was not known to be present, said an EU statement.

The import of most plants and plant products from non-EU countries will in principle be allowed, subject to certain conditions. Some will be prohibited or subject to very strict requirements if a risk assessment indicates that this is necessary due to the pests they might host.

All living plant material, namely entire plants, fruits, vegetables, cut flowers, seeds, etc., will only be imported into the EU if accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate confirming their compliance with the EU legislation, the EU said. Endit