The Evolving EU Framework for Phytosanitary Measures

Effective plant health measures are essential to protect agriculture, biodiversity, and global food security while enabling safe international trade. Yet many food, plant, and human health regulations—such as SPS measures—though crucial for safety, create compliance costs, cause border rejections in case of non-compliance, and subject market access to the respect of conditions. Their stringency and limited harmonization place burdens on exporters in developing countries, especially smallholders, thereby challenging market access. Against this backdrop, the regulatory framework for plant health and phytosanitary treatments is evolving rapidly. This webinar will examine upcoming EU developments, focusing on innovative, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly post-harvest treatments—such as heat, cold, irradiation, and controlled atmosphere—to prevent the spread of regulated pests. Experts from DG AGRI and DG SANTE, academics and businesses will discuss future standards, compliance requirements, scientifically based protocols, and engagement with regulatory authorities and industry. The session provides a platform to explore how policy and regulation can balance safety, trade, and sustainability.