Belfast, Northern Ireland – May 16, 2025 – The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has confirmed that no currently authorised Plant Protection Products (PPPs) in Northern Ireland will require amendment or withdrawal as a result of upcoming changes to the European Union’s Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs).
EU MRL Revisions Under Regulation (EC) No 396/2005
The EU’s Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed (SCoPAFF) has agreed on changes to MRLs for the following active substances:
- Chlorpropham
- Fuberidazole
- Ipconazole
- Methoxyfenozide
- S-metolachlor
- Triflusulfuron
Pending scrutiny by the European Parliament and Council, these amendments are expected to be formalized via implementing regulations in mid-2025, taking legal effect approximately six months after publication.
Impact on Northern Ireland Authorisations
In accordance with the Northern Ireland Protocol, PPPs authorised in Northern Ireland remain aligned with EU regulatory frameworks, including MRL thresholds. HSE’s proactive assessment of the latest EU MRL updates confirms:
- No authorisations in NI are affected.
- HSE will notify holders should future EU MRL updates necessitate regulatory action.
Export and Compliance Context
Though current revisions do not impact Northern Ireland, adjustments to EU MRLs can have ripple effects on both export compliance and import controls. Manufacturers, traders, and distributors are advised to:
- Review impacted commodities using the EU MRL database.
- Monitor the “not yet applicable” MRL listings for future changes.
- Align product registration and formulation planning with evolving residue standards.
The current list does not include MRL increases or new applications under Annex IV (actives not subject to MRLs), nor does it cover emergency authorisations or transitional tolerances.
Stakeholder Action Points
- Stay informed through EU MRL review publications.
- Consult EFSA’s opinions to anticipate residue-related constraints.
- Ensure new or revised PPP uses align with forthcoming MRL limits.
