The European Union Plans Stricter Restrictions on Imported Crops Treated with Banned Pesticides

According to a draft document from the European Commission, the European Union (EU) is planning to impose tougher restrictions on imported crops treated with pesticides banned in Europe. This move could impact suppliers, including those in the United States, reports ESMagazine.

Response to Trump’s Measures

U.S. President Donald Trump dismissed a previous Financial Times report on the EU’s plans, which cited unnamed EU officials stating that the proposal would be introduced this week.

A draft of the EU's policy document Vision for Agriculture and Food, set to be published on February 19 and seen by Reuters, confirmed that the Commission will adopt a stricter stance on imports to ensure fair competition conditions for European farmers.

“The Commission will pursue, in accordance with international rules, a stronger alignment of production standards applied to imported products, particularly regarding pesticides and animal welfare,” the draft states.

“The Commission will ensure that the most hazardous pesticides banned in the EU for health and environmental reasons are not allowed back into the EU through imported products.”

The draft, which did not specify which pesticides are considered the most hazardous, could still be revised before its official publication.

U.S. Imports

The EU’s move could block imports of U.S. soybeans and other food products treated with pesticides that European farmers are not permitted to use.

A spokesperson for the European Commission declined to comment on the leaked document. Trump stated that the EU’s move would harm Europe, while a White House official said the president would stand up for American farmers. Trump also confirmed that the U.S. intends to implement reciprocal tariffs.

Tensions between the U.S. and the EU have escalated following Trump’s decision to impose a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports starting March 12, along with “reciprocal” tariffs from April. Additional tariffs have also been announced for automobiles, pharmaceuticals, and semiconductor chips. The EU sets maximum residue levels for certain banned pesticides in imported food products.