European Union: Regulation Published Lowering MRLs Due to Environmental Concerns

  |   Attaché Report (GAIN)   |   E42023-0010

On February 15, 2023, Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/334 amending Annexes II and V to Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 lowering the maximum residue levels (MRLs) for clothianidin and thiamethoxam in or on certain products was published in the Official Journal (OJ). This Regulation enters into force on the twentieth day after its publication but will apply 36 months later in order to give food operators and third countries time to adapt. This means that as of March 7, 2026, imported products will no longer be able to contain residues of these two neonicotinoids. The proposed reduction in MRLs is not due to food safety concerns stemming from the presence of pesticide residues in imported foods, but rather based on a stated interest in protecting pollinators in countries outside of the EU.

Related Reports

This is an update to a voluntary GAIN report KS2023-0013, Korea's Positive List System for Veterinary Drugs. Information on MRL violations and MRL changes has been added.
Attaché Report (GAIN)

China: GI Product Protection Draft Regulations Issued

On September 18, 2023, the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) published draft Provisions on the Protection of Geographic Indication (GI) Products for public comment.
Attaché Report (GAIN)

China: Tree Nuts Annual

FAS China forecasts commercial production of in-shell walnuts to remain unchanged from the previous year at 1.4 MMT in MY 2023/24. Cold winter temperatures in Xinjiang damaged the almond crop this year.