The European Union (EU) has officially abandoned its controversial plan to reduce pesticide use, according to Agriculture Commissioner Christophe Hansen. This decision marks a significant shift in the bloc’s agricultural strategy and signals a recalibration of policies under the European Green Deal.
Background: From Green Ambitions to Political Reality
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The EU had previously aimed to cut pesticide use by 50% by 2030, a core element of its sustainable agriculture policy. However, the plan has now been shelved indefinitely following widespread backlash from farmers and right-wing political parties across Europe.
In an interview with Euronews, Hansen stated:
“We have made no progress. The issue is no longer on the European Commission’s agenda.”
Why Did the EU Scrap the Pesticide Reduction Plan?
The Sustainable Use Regulation (SUR), proposed in June 2022, sought to impose strict limits on pesticide use—including a total ban in sensitive areas such as urban parks and Natura 2000 conservation sites. The proposal faced heavy opposition from the farming community, prompting the European Commission to withdraw it in 2023.
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had pledged to present a “more balanced” proposal, but the plan was postponed until after the June 2024 European Parliament elections. Hansen has now confirmed that the EU will instead focus on trade standards and technological innovation, moving away from mandatory reduction targets.
New Direction: Biotechnology Over Restrictions
According to Hansen, the EU’s future agricultural agenda will prioritize raising trade standards and ensuring that imported food products comply with the bloc’s pesticide rules. A key initiative will be the upcoming Biotech Act, aimed at accelerating the development of safe, biotechnology-based alternatives to conventional pesticides.
“We must work harder to develop solutions that protect both the environment and human health,” Hansen emphasized.
In 2024, the EU is expected to streamline the approval process for biopesticides, one of the few aspects of the original pesticide policy that enjoys broad support.
This policy shift reflects the EU’s New Vision for Agriculture and Food, which seeks to attract younger generations to farming through innovation rather than restrictive environmental mandates.
Implications for Vietnamese Agricultural Exporters
For Vietnamese agri-exporters, the EU’s policy reversal could ease pressure on meeting overly strict environmental criteria. However, the bloc will continue to tighten import standards, particularly concerning pesticide residues.
To remain competitive, Vietnamese exporters must continue investing in:
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Clean and traceable farming technologies
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Sustainable production practices
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Compliance with EU residue and certification standards
By maintaining high quality and safety benchmarks, Vietnam’s agricultural products can strengthen and expand their market position within the EU amid this evolving policy landscape.