Extension of the European seed market to non-member countries - Ukraine and Moldova

MEPs approve an update of the list of countries whose seed inspection and certification systems meet EU standards. The new list would officially include Moldova and Ukraine, which have demonstrated that their inspection and certification procedures are of sufficient quality and comply with European rules.

At the same time, MEPs approved two technical changes to ensure that all products continue to meet the strict conditions of the EU internal market.

The decision specifically concerns feed crops from Moldova and beet, sunflower, rapeseed and soya from Ukraine. The European Commission had previously carried out detailed audits in both countries - Moldova in 2016, Ukraine in 2015 - and concluded that the recommendations had been properly implemented.

Both countries have laboratories accredited to International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) standards and are also involved in the OECD system for the certification of seeds in international trade.

The extension of the list of "equivalent" countries is intended to facilitate seed trade, contribute to a stable supply of quality seed to farmers and at the same time promote cooperation with key partner countries in Eastern Europe.