Two years after the implementation of the Fertilising Products Regulation (FPR) across the European Union, the recognition of plant biostimulants by regulators marked a significant milestone for sustainable agriculture. The European Biostimulants Industry Council (EBIC) played a pivotal role in this achievement, advocating for a regulatory framework that ensures the safety, efficacy, and reliability of these products. However, as we reflect on the progress made, it becomes evident that there are still challenges to overcome and opportunities for improvement, both in Europe and the United States.
In Europe, while the inclusion of plant biostimulants in the FPR was a crucial step forward, it is only the beginning of a journey towards fostering innovation and sustainability in agriculture. EBIC continues to address outstanding issues, such as the omission of certain microbials and the cumbersome data requirements under REACH+, which pose barriers to market access, particularly for smaller companies and innovative substances. The need for a harmonized approach to regulatory oversight remains essential to ensure fair competition and support the transition to sustainable food systems.
The evaluation of the FPR, mandated for 2026, presents an opportunity to assess its impact and make necessary improvements. EBIC urges policymakers to prioritize the removal of regulatory barriers and facilitate the uptake of plant biostimulants, thereby enabling European farmers to harness the benefits of these innovative technologies. In this issue of New AG International, Elodie Lebastard, Senior Consultant, Prospero & Partners, updates us on EBIC’s stance going forward.
Meanwhile, in the United States, the proposed amendments to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) outlined in the 2024 Farm Bill offer promising prospects for the plant biostimulant industry. The exclusion of certain biostimulants from the definition of pesticides and the establishment of a statutory definition for plant biostimulants represent significant steps towards providing a regulatory framework that supports innovation and market access. But as Keith Matthews writes in this issue of New AG International, “even if the Farm Bill plant biostimulants provisions are enacted into law, there will remain an element of ‘stay tuned’.”
As we navigate the complexities of regulatory frameworks on both sides of the Atlantic, it is imperative to prioritize collaboration, transparency and stakeholder engagement. The progress made in Europe and the United States underscores the importance of proactive regulatory frameworks that support innovation while ensuring safety and efficacy. As we look ahead, let us seize the opportunities for collaboration and collective action to build a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector for generations to come.
We hope you enjoy this issueof New AG International. ●
