Bayer will appeal against the recent ruling of the General Court of the European Union (EU) on neonicotinoids – a class of neuro-active insecticides (Case T-429/13). The company is concerned that the verdict, announced in spring, could have far-reaching consequences for the certainty and predictability of active substance approvals in the EU. By appealing against the verdict, Bayer aims to ensure that some general interpretations of the crop protection law are re-considered. These interpretations may have importance beyond this particular case, and Bayer believes they are not legally founded.

The company underlines that it respects the European legislative process and accepts the recent decision of the EU Member States to broadly restrict the use of certain neonicotinoids in agriculture. As a consequence, it has withdrawn the clothianidin dossier from the ongoing renewal process. Bayer says further, that the safety of their products has been approved by regulatory bodies around the globe and that neonicotinoids are important for farmers in managing pests effectively.

• Bayer AG, Leverkusen, Germany

Also of Interest

• EU Bans Neonicotinoids,
  ChemViews Mag. 27 April 2018
  According to critics this is a bad development for the European agricultural sector and the environment