June 2024
On May 28, the Biocontrol Coalition had its first webinar titled “Do we need a Single Market for Biocontrol.” We had the pleasure of hearing from industry leaders and experts:
Our discussion delved into the current challenges faced by farmers, including the risks associated with having fewer plant protection products on the market. We explored the varying access across Member States and value chains, opportunities within the Single Market, and the potential for creative regulatory thinking to accelerate the path to market.
A critical point raised was the 30% drop in conventional PPPs since 2017, which has significantly reduced the tools available to farmers. This shortage increases the risk of pest resistance and major crop failures, highlighting the urgent need for more integrated and sustainable solutions.
Only 5 to 6 new biocontrol active ingredients are approved per year under the current EU system, and it takes 8-10 years for a product to reach the market. This prolonged timeline is making Europe lose competitiveness and deeply affecting the sector, farmers, and by extension, consumers.
We also discussed the numerous benefits of a Single Market for biocontrol: a unified market and a timely one step evaluation would streamline the approval and distribution processes for biocontrol products, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and ensuring equitable access for farmers across the EU, in line with the recommendations of the 2024 Letta report “Much more than a market”. This harmonization could drive innovation and support the EU’s sustainability goals.
The conversation underscored the necessity for a unified approach to biocontrol within the EU, emphasizing the benefits of a Single Market.
A big thank you to our speakers and all participants for making this event a success!
Missed the live event? Watch the recording.
Stay tuned for our next webinar announcement coming soon!