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EU toughens up on pesticides in imported fruits and veggies
European Commission vows to protect Spanish farmers from unfair competition and dangerous pesticides
The European Union is stepping up its efforts to tackle the use of banned pesticides in imported produce, with a focus on ensuring that Spain’s fruit and vegetable industry doesn’t face unfair competition from other countries. Spanish growers have long argued that imports, particularly from countries such as Morocco, are not held to the same rigorous standards that European producers must meet.Back in February 2024 there was a wave of protests, when local farmers took to the streets, some even throwing lemons to highlight what they see as unfair competition from foreign imports.
A letter from EU Agriculture Commissioner, Christophe Hansen, dated Wednesday March 27, responds to growing concerns from Spanish farmers and producers. In it, Hansen reassures regional governments that the EU will not tolerate the entry of products containing harmful pesticides - the very substances banned within EU borders for both health and environmental reasons.
Hansen’s commitment comes after ongoing complaints from agricultural groups, particularly from regions like Murcia, Valencia, Andalucía and Extremadura. These areas believe that imports from places like Morocco are slipping through the cracks of EU regulations, giving their produce an unfair advantage. While Morocco’s agricultural sector thrives from favourable conditions and substantial EU support, local farmers argue that these imports don’t comply with the strict environmental standards that European growers must meet.
Ensuring fair competition
The European Commission has vowed to address these concerns. In his letter, Hansen tells the regional ministers that the EU will roll out measures to protect local farmers, particularly in areas where third-country imports are outpacing local production. This includes guaranteeing that “the most dangerous pesticides,” not allowed in the EU, are not entering via imports.
The letter also mentions the Commission's intention to launch an “impact assessment” this year, to keep a closer eye on how well EU pesticide laws are being followed. In a broader move, the Commission plans to push for greater “reciprocity,” meaning that third countries must meet EU standards for product safety and environmental protection.
Moroccan imports and the need for action
The Spanish Federation of Fruit and Vegetable Producers and Exporters (Fepex), which represents growers like Proexport, has been vocal about Morocco’s growing presence in the market. Fepex has called for the EU to take swift action, urging Brussels to implement “mirror clauses” that ensure third countries adhere to similar phytosanitary (health and safety standards related to plants and plant products) and environmental standards.
In response, Hansen reassured farmers that the EU remains committed to the principle of fair competition.
“I fully understand the concerns around the risk of pests entering the EU through imports,” he stated. “We are committed to ensuring European farmers can compete fairly, and we will continue to seek greater cooperation with key partners in this area.”
What’s next for Spanish farmers?
The EU’s efforts go beyond pesticides. In his letter, Hansen also mentioned a new proposal to make it easier to access biological pesticides, another key demand from the industry. Additionally, the Commission is planning to set up a new working group to monitor food safety, aiming to improve import controls and guarantee that agricultural products coming in from outside the EU are safe for consumers.
For now, Spanish farmers are waiting to see what action the European Commission takes. Fepex and other agricultural associations are continuing to press for stricter border controls and a more level playing field. As Fepex mentioned in a recent statement, “We need to ensure that third countries are held to the same standards as EU producers.”
While the discussions continue, the message from Brussels is clear: the EU is committed to upholding high standards for food safety and fair competition. For all European farmers, including those in Spain, this could be a turning point in the battle for a fairer agricultural marketplace.
Image: Engin Akyurt/Pexels
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