Key Takeaways
- The UK government has confirmed that farmers and growers will continue to have access to crucial plant protection products.
- The decision comes after feedback from the farming industry and aims to provide certainty for upcoming growing seasons.
- Seeds treated with EU-approved pesticides can still be purchased and used, and cost-effective pesticides identical to those authorized in Great Britain can continue to be imported.
- Temporary measures will allow the use of seeds treated with plant protection products authorized in the EU for an additional 3.5 years, extending up to 1 July 2027.
- The government is encouraging farmers to adopt integrated pest management approaches and is supporting this through new paid actions such as the Sustainable Farming Incentive scheme.
The UK government has announced that British farmers and growers will continue to have access to important pesticides. This move aims to support resilient and profitable food production while reducing input costs. The announcement assures that there will be no break in the existing treated seed schemes, which were due to expire on 31 December.
Details of the Plan
The government’s plans will allow farmers and growers to continue buying and using seeds treated with EU-approved pesticides. Additionally, more cost-effective pesticides identical to those authorized in Great Britain can continue being imported. These measures aim to give the agricultural industry and farming communities valuable time to adapt.
Temporary Measures
Under the temporary measures, farmers and growers can continue using seeds treated with plant protection products authorized for use in the EU for an additional 3.5 years, extending up to 1 July 2027. Trade permits for importing plant protection products (PPPs) identical to those authorized in Great Britain will also be reinstated for a maximum of two years.
Integrated Pest Management
The government encourages farmers to develop and adapt their practices, including through integrated pest management approaches. The Sustainable Farming Incentive scheme’s integrated pest management Standard includes payments to assess and produce an integrated pest management plan.
Regulatory Standards
The import of treated seeds will be restricted to products authorized in one or more EU countries, ensuring they meet similar high standards to those in Great Britain. Any products for which the authorization is withdrawn in the EU will no longer be legal to import and use in Great Britain.
Photo by Bernd 📷 Dittrich on Unsplash
