Spanish export federation Fepex has pleaded with the European Commission to end confusion over maximum residue levels (MRLs).
On behalf of its members, Fepex has asked that approval be granted to annex III of regulation 396/2005 of the European parliament, to finally set harmonised MRLs - the maximum level of pesticide residue allowable on fresh produce for sale to European consumers - and eliminate the risk factor of growers producing crops in one member state for sale in another.
At present, there is a discrepancy between the interpretation of MRLs in different EU member states. A final decision from the commission was due on April 5, but it has been delayed, and Fepex believes the prevarication could cause serious damage to international trade and could form a trade barrier for Spanish produce.
