22 June 2026, Brussels: The European Commission has adopted a new regulation introducing mandatory digital labelling for plant protection products (PPPs), marking a significant step toward modernizing pesticide information systems across the European Union. The new rules, published as Commission Regulation (EU) 2026/1123, will apply from January 1, 2028, replacing the existing labelling framework established under Regulation (EU) No 547/2011.
Under the regulation, all plant protection products placed on the EU market will be required to carry both a physical label and a digital label accessible through a data carrier, such as a QR code. The digital label must be freely accessible without requiring user registration and must contain the same information as the physical label.
The Commission said digital labels will improve access to safety and regulatory information through features such as larger fonts, translation options, voice assistance and searchable content. They are also expected to support the transition to digital agriculture by enabling easier integration of product-use information with precision farming equipment, weather stations and farm record-keeping systems.
Enhanced Risk Communication
The new framework introduces updated hazard communication requirements, including a dedicated bee hazard pictogram and accompanying warning statements for products posing risks to pollinators. Products containing microorganisms will also require a precautionary statement highlighting their potential to cause sensitising reactions.
In addition, labels will include standardized risk mitigation phrases covering operator safety, environmental protection, resistance management, seed treatment, disposal requirements and restrictions on product use where necessary. Member States will be able to supplement these phrases with additional risk mitigation instructions tailored to local conditions.
Alignment with Updated EU Chemical Rules
The Commission stated that the revised labelling requirements align plant protection product labels with recent updates to the EU’s classification, labelling and packaging (CLP) legislation. The move is intended to improve regulatory consistency, facilitate enforcement and provide clearer information to professional and non-professional users.
Transition Period for Industry
A phased implementation approach has been established to give manufacturers, regulators and supply chain operators sufficient time to adapt. While the regulation enters into force in 2026, it will apply from January 1, 2028. Existing products authorized under applications submitted before that date may continue using the current labelling regime, although digital labels will become mandatory for all plant protection products no later than January 1, 2030.
The regulation is expected to affect pesticide manufacturers, distributors and growers across the European Union, requiring updates to product packaging, regulatory documentation and digital information systems while supporting broader EU objectives related to sustainability, traceability and digital agriculture.
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