EU tightens standards for imported food

The EC emphasized that all imported products must meet the same set of standards as goods within the bloc.

The European Commission (EC) has officially launched a new task force aimed at tightening controls on imported goods. This is a strategic move to ensure that all products entering the European Union (EU) from outside must overcome the strictest technical barriers.

This task force brings together experts from the EC and member states, focusing primarily on food safety, animal feed, and pesticide residue control. Its core objective is to standardize inspection procedures at border crossings, eliminate overlaps, and identify legal gaps requiring amendment.

Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare Olivér Várhelyi emphasized that the EU's strict food safety standards provide tangible benefits to European citizens, protecting human, animal, and plant health, while also contributing to environmental protection.

He also affirmed that all products, whether from neighboring countries or distant markets, must meet the same set of standards when accessing the common market in order to create a fair competitive environment for farmers and businesses within the bloc.

The establishment of the task force demonstrates the EC's determination to translate safety standards into concrete action. This is seen as an important step to strengthen consumer confidence, ensure consistency in enforcement, and enhance the sustainability of the internal market in the context of volatile international trade.

Source: VTV