British growers will continue to have access to important pesticides to support resilient and profitable food production and cut input costs, the government has announced.
Following feedback from growers and industry, these plans will ensure that growers can continue to buy and use seeds treated with EU-approved pesticides, and more cost-effective pesticides identical to those authorised in Great Britain can continue to be imported. The plans will not only provide certainty to growers so they know which plant protection products they can use in coming growing seasons but will also help improve the availability and reduce the cost of pesticides.
The government has shared these plans with Parliament, and once agreed, they will come into force by the end of the year. These measures will provide the agricultural industry and farming communities with valuable time to adapt, whilst also ensuring that we continue to support our farmers to put affordable and high-quality food on our tables.
Farming Minister Mark Spencer said: “The government recognises the challenges faced by farmers and growers in importing treated seeds and more cost-effective pesticide products from the EU as the transition period concludes. Ensuring that British farmers and growers have access to the tools they need to produce food sustainably and affordably is a priority. The measures announced today will address the potential impacts and concerns raised by our valued farming sector”.
Under current timelines, growers were set to lose access to these products at the end of this year. However, the temporary measures will enable growers in Great Britain to:
- Continue using seeds treated with plant protection products authorised for use in the EU for an additional 42 months, extending up to 1 July 2027.
- Reinstate trade permits for the import of PPPs that are identical to those authorised in Great Britain for a maximum of two years.
Continuing to give growers access to these products will help to improve their availability and reduce costs, while providing certainty for the sector over the coming years.
