Uneven playing field neonics is a fact

The French parliament on Tuesday 6 October approved a temporary exemption for neonicotinoids. Now that derogation is becoming a reality at the largest beet producer, an uneven playing field is created by definition in the European Union. Minister Schouten regrets this, but does not deviate from her position for the time being.

On 60 October, the French parliament voted by a majority of almost 6% in favor of a temporary reintroduction of neonicotinoids in sugar beet cultivation. Of all MPs, 313 were in favour, 158 against and 56 abstained. It means that until July 1, 2023, there will be an exemption in France for the use of beet seed coated with neonicotinoids.

Huge damage from yellowing virus
Since 2018, there has been a European ban on the outdoor use of neonicotinoids. However, the EU Member States can choose to grant a temporary exemption. Due to the major economic impact on the sugar sector in France, agriculture minister Julien Denormandie came up with such a voorstel† French beet growers suffer significant damage as a result of the yellowing virus with in the most extreme cases yield losses up to 80%.

France is not the only country to grant a derogation for the use of neonicotinoid products as a coating on beet seed. A temporary exemption also applies in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Spain, Finland, Croatia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Slovakia. However, the situation in France has a major impact on the market, as France is the largest producer of sugar beet in Europe. It is therefore no surprise that this decision has caused quite a stir.

Schouten sticks to position
The issue is particularly sensitive in the Netherlands and Germany, where beet organizations and sugar producers fear an uneven playing field. Royal Cosun believes that Minister Carola Schouten should reconsider the 'neonics file', after which Member of Parliament Helma Lodders (VVD) asked parliamentary questions on the subject. Earlier this week, Schouten answered with heart. This shows that for the time being it does not deviate from its previous position of sticking to the current total ban.

Schouten agrees that granting temporary exemptions at national level creates an uneven playing field in Europe. That is why, in its view, this instrument should be applied with restraint. "I think it is important that the possibility for a temporary exemption exists in the event of an agricultural emergency and when safe use has been demonstrated. However, a level playing field is not part of the consideration of granting a temporary exemption."

Research
Schouten responded negatively to an earlier request in 2018 from the sector to temporarily allow neonicotinoids. Main reason: safe use of the product would not be possible. "If such a request is submitted again, I will again be advised by the NVWA and the Ctgb", Schouten said. Additional scientific information that demonstrates safe use is, in her view, a requirement.

Jeanette Pennings

Jeannet has her roots in the flower bulb sector and she grew up on an agricultural company in the northern part of North Holland. As a generalist she reports for Boerenbusiness across all sectors. She is also exploring the possibilities of sponsored advertising.

j.pennings@boerenbusiness. Nl

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