FAQ: EU’s Plan to Intensify Import Controls on Agri-Food Products (2026)

02 January 2026, EU: The European Commission is preparing to strengthen its import control system for agri-food products entering the European Union from non-EU countries. From 2026 onwards, a higher share of official audits will focus on exporters shipping to the EU, with new rules covering food safety, pesticide residues and animal welfare. These steps are part of the EU’s broader effort to create fair competitive conditions for its farming sector and ensure that imported products meet EU regulatory standards. The following FAQ explains the key elements of the plan and what stakeholders can expect as the changes are implemented.

1. What has the European Commission announced?

The European Commission plans to increase official controls on agri-food imports from non-EU countries. The goal is to ensure fair competition for EU farmers and strengthen checks on food safety, pesticide residues and animal welfare standards.

2. Why are these measures being introduced?

The measures support the EU Vision for Agriculture and Food 2025–2029. They aim to monitor compliance with EU standards and respond to concerns regarding imported products that do not meet regulatory requirements.

3. How will the 2026 control programme change?

In 2026, 51% of EU audits in the agri-food sector will focus on non-EU exporters. This is an increase from 33% in the 2025 programme.

4. What specific actions will the EU take?

Key actions include:

• Increasing audits of non-EU countries by 50% over the next two years.
• Conducting 33% more audits at European Border Control Posts.
• Scaling up checks on high-risk products and countries.
• Providing training for around 500 national officials.
• Applying stricter rules to imports containing traces of pesticides banned in the EU.

5. Will EU Member States also be monitored?

Yes. Controls within the EU will continue, and additional audits will verify whether Member States apply inspection requirements correctly at border entry points.

6. How will pesticide-related imports be handled?

Imports that contain residues of pesticides banned in the EU will face stricter scrutiny. The measures follow updates to international standards.

7. What is the new EU Task Force?

A dedicated Task Force will start work in early 2026. Its role is to coordinate import controls, assess the impact of the new measures and streamline monitoring procedures across Member States.

8. Who will monitor the progress of these measures?

The progress of the Task Force and related actions will be monitored by COLEAD. Updates will be shared through the AGRINFO platform.

9. What is AGRINFO’s role?

AGRINFO provides updates and resources on changing import rules. It supports exporters, authorities and industry stakeholders by publishing new regulatory requirements as they are introduced.

10. Who is responsible for the content published under AGRINFO?

COLEAD is responsible. The organisation states that the content does not represent official positions of the European Union.

11. What should non-EU exporters prepare for?

Exporters should expect higher inspection frequency, tighter residue limits, and more requests for documentation and compliance evidence. Increased attention will be given to products with previous non-compliance issues.

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