Pilot project for parallel EU/US evaluation of pesticide launched
A new herbicide is to be subjected to parallel evaluation by the European Union and US authorities following the European Commission's launch of a pilot project. This will aim to identify the similarities and differences between EU and US data requirements, data evaluation and regulatory processes using a concrete test case. The test case is for a new herbicide called 'Foramsulforon', intended for use in corn production. Existing EU legislation on plant protection products requires detailed examination of chemical substances used in plant protection products before their use is authorised. The US has similar rules. The European Commission and the German authorities responsible for the evaluation at EU level have reached an agreement to undertake the parallel review together with the US Environmental protection agency (EPA) and the company producing the herbicide, Aventis. 'If the experience proves to be a success it may clear the way for improved cooperation in sharing the heavy burden of pesticides evaluation,' says the Commission.