European Parliament AGRI and ENVI Committees Support Faster Uptake of Biocontrol Solutions in the EU

Brussels, 5 November 2025 – IBMA, the International Biocontrol Manufacturers Association, welcomes the approval of the compromise amendments to the European Parliament’s INI report on ensuring faster registration and uptake of biological control. The amendments adopted yesterday evening by a majority of Members of the European Parliament in the AGRI and ENVI Committees, are a key milestone for sustainable plant protection in the European Union.

Farmers quickly need effective and environmentally friendly solutions to manage pest and diseases to support their farm productivity. 

The compromise amendments reflect key needs expressed by farmers and the biocontrol industry, and will help accelerate access to effective and environmentally sound solutions.

Key elements adopted include:
– A definition of biocontrol, focusing on substances from nature or identical to nature when synthesised
– Reinstatement of provisional authorisation for biological control products
– Potential centralised EU evaluation and authorisation system for biocontrol
– Facilitated label extension to minor use cropsImproved and automatic use of mutual recognition under Regulation (EC) 1107/2009
– The possibility of longer authorisations and the indefinite approval of biocontrol active substances
– Additional EFSA resources to ensure timely evaluations and avoid backlogs 
– A call for a dedicated, future-proof EU regulation for biocontrol

“This European Parliaments Committees vote is a key milestone in enabling faster, simpler and science-based access to biocontrol solutions across the EU. It positions biocontrol at the core of the EU’s transition towards more sustainable agriculture.” underlines Isabelle Pinzauti Babrzynski, IBMA Senior Advocacy and Outreach Manager.

This decision comes at a crucial moment, ahead of the European Parliament plenary vote at the end of November and the European Commission’s Simplification Omnibus in December.

Media Contact:
Isabelle Pinzauti Babrzynski
Senior Advocacy and Outreach Manager
isabelle.pinzauti@ibma-global.org
0032 497 69 58 42
www.ibma-global.org