EU tightens import controls on food

The European Commission is stepping up its efforts. At the border – and beyond – stricter checks are being introduced for food, animals and plants entering the EU. In Brussels, Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi discussed the plans with stakeholders before presenting the package officially. The message was clear: safeguard food safety and ensure fair competition for European producers.

More audits outside the EU

In the coming years, the number of audits in third countries will rise by 50%. That is significant, while controls within the EU remain at their current level. The pace at the border is changing as well. European Border Control Posts will face 33% more audits, ensuring member states conduct inspections in line with EU requirements. For products or countries that previously failed to comply, the frequency of checks will increase — exactly where pressure is needed.

Support, extra oversight and a task force

Member states will not have to manage this alone. The Commission will support them in carrying out the additional checks. An EU Task Force will also be established, focusing on pesticide residues, food and feed safety and animal welfare. Where necessary, this task force can initiate coordinated, EU-wide monitoring for specific imported products. In addition, around 500 staff members from national authorities will receive training on official controls.

Updated rules on pesticide residues

Meanwhile, the rules governing the admission of products are being updated. They apply to products containing traces of hazardous pesticides that are banned in the EU. The revised rules align with recently updated international standards.

Várhelyi underlined the importance of a strong control system: “Protecting the safety of food consumed in the EU is one of my core responsibilities. (…) Today’s measures will further reinforce and modernise our already robust system of official controls, to the benefit of EU citizens, farmers and companies.”

Ec.europa.eu