European Commission flexible with trade rules

The European Commission announced yesterday (March 31) that it would be more flexible in carrying out official controls on the agri-food chain. This temporary measure is intended to limit serious disruptions due to the coronavirus.

It is very important to keep the flow of goods between countries running smoothly. Many countries are largely self-sufficient but also import many goods. Importing goods from other countries is in some cases necessary to fill the shelves in the food chain. Movement restrictions restrict the flow of goods. The European Commission has therefore published a temporary measure to facilitate the movement of goods.

The measure helps to facilitate the movement of animals, plants, food and feed from both to the EU and within the EU during the current circumstances. In addition, the measure also helps to prevent the spread of the virus among control personnel.

Duration of the measure
The measure does not change any substantial rules of EU legislation on public and animal health, food and feed safety and animal welfare. If Member States wish to make use of the measure, they must inform the Commission and the other Member States. The duration of the measure is initially limited to 2 months.

Movement of animals and goods
The move makes the movement of animals, plants, food and feed from both to the EU and within the EU easier under the current circumstances. For example, veterinary and phytosanitary checks can be performed by a specially designated person as an exception. This in case the authorized personnel cannot reach the place of control due to movement restrictions. Also, in the absence of official laboratories that are normally used, specially designated laboratories may be used.

Control personnel
The spread of the virus among control personnel is also avoided as much as possible. For example, documents submitted electronically can be accepted at border controls, provided the controller undertakes to provide the original document as soon as possible. Physical encounters with operators can be replaced by contact through available means of communication.

Chanti Oussoren

Editor at Boerenbusiness who studies the dairy, pig (meat) and feed markets.

c.oussoren@boerenbusiness. Nl

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