The European Parliament supports faster access to biocontrol

IBMA, the International Biocontrol Manufacturers Association, has welcomed the European Parliament's adoption of the Biocontrol Non Legislative Initiative Report. The report calls for faster authorization and wider use of biological control. Today's positive vote in Strasbourg signals strong political support for the future of sustainable plant protection in the European Union. It comes at a critical moment, as farmers across Europe need effective and environmentally friendly crop protection tools.

The adoption sends a clear message to the European Commission as it finalises the simplification package for Regulation 1107/2009, which aims to speed up access to safe, nature based pest management solutions.

The report introduces several important measures. It establishes a clear definition of biocontrol focused on substances that come from nature or are identical to natural substances when synthesised. It revives provisional authorisation pathways for biological control products and encourages the exploration of a centralised EU system for biocontrol evaluation and authorisation. It also calls for streamlined label extensions for minor uses and improved mutual recognition under Regulation 1107/2009. The measures include longer authorisation periods, with a possibility of indefinite approval for certain biocontrol active substances, along with additional EFSA resources to ensure timely evaluations. Finally, it urges the creation of a dedicated EU regulation for biocontrol.

"This vote by the European Parliament represents a decisive step toward quicker, simpler and science based access to biocontrol solutions throughout the EU. It confirms biocontrol as a key component of the EU's shift toward more resilient agriculture," said Jennifer Lewis, IBMA Executive Director.

Isabelle Pinzauti Babrzynski, IBMA Senior Advocacy and Outreach Manager added: "Europe's farmers deserve fast, reliable access to innovative nature-based tools. The European Parliament vote sends a strong signal that the EU is ready to modernise its regulatory framework so that biocontrol can reach the market at the pace needed to meet sustainability goals and food security challenges."