Stay informed and provide feedback: government negotiations with the EU on pesticides and biocides regulations

The government is negotiating with the EU on arrangements for the trade of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Goods (SPS).

The government is forming a new strategic partnership with the EU on the trade and movement of plants, plant products, animals, animal products, feed and food. This is called a sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement.

Negotiations are underway which will seek to align GB with EU law in SPS policy areas. You can read more at GOV.UK.

The government can confirm that the following EU legislation is in scope of negotiations, and the GB equivalent legislation is likely to change as a result:

• Regulation 1107/2009 – Authorisation of plant protection products
• Regulation 396/2005 – Maximum pesticide residue levels
• Regulation (EU) 2017/625 – Official controls across food, feed, plant and animal law
• Regulation 528/2012 – Making available on the market and use of biocidal products

Timing

Negotiations are expected to conclude later this year with the agreement expected to come into effect from mid-2027. Exact timings of when specific arrangements will change are subject to the outcome of negotiations.

The existing regulatory system remains in place until any changes to the regime are introduced.

Giving feedback

Call for Information

Defra has launched a Call for Information to identify what information businesses require, the timing of that information, and any areas where further support would be useful.

Findings will be used to develop practical guidance for businesses, as well as advice for dealing with applications already in progress.

See the latest published guidance on GOV.UK.

To help inform the approach complete the 6-week UK-EU SPS Agreement: Call for Information.

We will keep you up to date with the latest information as the negotiations progress by providing further ebulletins and you can also sign up to Defra’s SPS readiness newsletter.