The EU moves forward in finalising discussion on the new regulation on Forest Reproductive Material
The regulation aims to secure high-quality seeds and planting stock, boost traceability, and strengthen reforestation efforts across Europe.
A provisional agreement has been reached by Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) and the EU Council to establish rules securing the supply of high-quality forest reproductive material (FRM), including seeds, cuttings, and planting stock, across the EU.
The main aim of the regulation is to remove trade obstacles within the EU internal market for FRM while ensuring full traceability from collection to marketing. It also promotes the use of innovative production processes and digital tools to strengthen monitoring and supply.
Under the deal, Member States are encouraged to request technical support from the European Commission when preparing voluntary contingency plans to guarantee sufficient FRM for reforestation following extreme weather events or natural disasters. Countries will also be required to cooperate in cross-border situations to secure supplies. Producers must notify national authorities before harvesting FRM to enable proper controls.
In the agreed text, national authorities may, in exceptional cases, permit the use of specific materials to conserve forest genetic resources; more information on this will be available on EUFORGEN channels as soon as the revised text is released.
The agreement now awaits formal approval by both Parliament and Council before entering into force.
Read the full European Parliament press release: https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20251208IPR32083/deal-on-a-stronger-european-single-market-in-forestry
