Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/1719
This regulation is a technical correction of geographic coordinates in Annexes VII and XIII of Regulation (EU) 2019/1241 concerning fisheries and marine ecosystem conservation. It addresses inaccuracies reported by South-Western Waters Member States and BALTFISH. The changes affect the coordinates for restricted fishing areas in the Cantabrian Sea and specific sites in the Baltic Sea, including “Northern Midsea Bank” and Natura 2000 sites like “Westliche Rönnebank.” The regulation replaces existing coordinates with corrected ones to ensure accurate implementation of fishing restrictions.
Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/789
This regulation clarifies the conditions and indicators under which the European Banking Authority (EBA) can determine that extraordinary circumstances exist, allowing institutions to potentially deviate from internal model requirements for market risk. It focuses on significant cross-border financial market stress or major regime shifts. The regulation specifies that the EBA will assess a 250-day business period for extraordinary events if back-testing or profit and loss attribution tests become unrepresentative. It also outlines key indicators like volatility indices and comparison to past crises to guide the EBA’s assessment.
Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/928
This regulation updates the lists of prohibited and controlled goods related to trade in items that could be used for capital punishment, torture, or other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment. It amends Regulation (EU) 2019/125 by replacing Annex II (prohibited goods) and Annex III (controlled goods). The updates reflect changes in technology, market developments, and the misuse of law enforcement equipment. Economic operators and competent authorities must review the updated lists to ensure compliance.
Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/927
This regulation updates the rules for monitoring, reporting, and verifying aviation emissions, aligning with both the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) and the EU Emission Trading System (ETS). It details how aircraft operators should monitor and report their emissions, including the use of CORSIA-eligible fuels, and how the cancellation of emission units for offsetting under CORSIA should be verified and reported. It specifies requirements for reporting emissions data and CORSIA eligible fuels to the ICAO Secretariat. It repeals and replaces Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/1603.
Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1560
This regulation authorizes a specific health claim for green kiwifruit, stating that consuming it contributes to normal bowel function by increasing stool frequency. It amends Regulation (EU) No 432/2012 to include this claim in the Union list of permitted health claims on foods. The claim can only be used for fresh green kiwifruit, provided a minimum of 200g of kiwi flesh is consumed daily, and consumers are informed of this requirement.
Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1542
This regulation specifies the modalities, structure, and assessment indicators for quality reports related to the Economic Accounts for Agriculture in the EU. It mandates Member States to transmit quality reports to Eurostat periodically, detailing the quality of their agricultural economic accounts data, using the European Statistical System transmission standard. The quality of the data will be assessed based on indicators outlined in Annex II, including metadata and data completeness, timeliness, and data revisions.
Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1528
This regulation authorises the placing of tiger nut oil on the market as a novel food within the European Union. It amends Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/2470 to include tiger nut oil in the Union list of novel foods. The regulation specifies the conditions of use, labelling requirements (“Cyperus esculentus (tiger nut) oil”), and technical specifications for the oil’s composition, heavy metal content, mycotoxin levels, and microbiological criteria.
Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1545
This regulation amends Implementing Regulations (EU) 2018/2019 and (EU) 2020/1213, concerning phytosanitary measures for certain plants from the United Kingdom. It updates the list of high-risk plants and specifies the phytosanitary measures required for importing certain plants for planting from the UK into the Union territory. The amendments reflect updated risk assessments from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).
Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1549
This regulation addresses errors found in previous regulations concerning novel foods, specifically Implementing Regulations (EU) 2023/2210 and (EU) 2022/1365. The regulation aims to correct the conditions of use for 3-Fucosyllactose (3-FL) and Schizochytrium sp. oil rich in DHA and EPA. The regulation adds the use of Schizochytrium sp. oil in food supplements for children from 18 months to 18 years of age.
It includes 3-FL in foods for special medical purposes for infants and young children.
Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1573
This regulation amends Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/1483, which imposed anti-dumping duties on imports of stainless steel cold-rolled flat products from China and Taiwan. The amendment concerns a company name change, updating “Lianzhong Stainless Steel Corporation” to “Angang Lianzhong Stainless Steel Corporation,” while maintaining the same anti-dumping duty rate and TARIC additional code C026. Any excess duties paid due to the name change will be reimbursed.
Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1530
This regulation authorises the use of potassium magnesium trichloride hexahydrate as a novel food within the EU, intended as a salt substitute in specific food categories for adults. It amends Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/2470. It provides exclusive rights to BK Giulini GmbH to place this novel food on the market for five years, and specifies conditions of use, including maximum levels in raw cured or seasoned meat, cooked cured or seasoned meat, cereal-based dishes, and preserved or partly preserved sausages. It also mandates labelling requirements, including the designation “potassium magnesium mineral salt.”
Commission Regulation (EU) 2025/1212
This regulation modifies Annex II of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, which concerns the maximum residue levels (MRLs) for acetamiprid in or on specific agricultural products. The regulation adjusts these levels for plums, linseeds, poppy seeds, mustard seeds, gold of pleasure seeds, honey, other apiculture products, and soybeans to align with scientific assessments and international standards. The regulation introduces a new, lower acceptable daily intake (ADI) and acute reference dose (ARfD) for acetamiprid, and includes the metabolite IM-2-1 in the residue definition for risk assessment in fruit and leafy crops.
Agreement between the EU and the Republic of Armenia
This agreement establishes a framework for Armenia’s participation in EU crisis management operations. It outlines the general conditions for Armenia’s involvement, emphasizing that such participation is subject to the EU’s decision-making autonomy and Armenia’s own decision to contribute on a case-by-case basis. The agreement covers both civilian and military crisis management operations, detailing aspects such as the status of personnel, chain of command, financial responsibilities, and the handling of classified information.
Agreement between the EU and the Republic of Korea
This agreement establishes a framework for the Republic of Korea (Korea) to participate in specific European Union (EU) programs and activities. It outlines the terms, conditions, and financial contributions required for Korean participation, aiming to foster cooperation and mutual benefits in areas of shared interest, particularly in research and innovation. The agreement sets up a Joint Committee to manage and adapt the terms of this collaboration over time.
EFTA Court Judgment E-23/24
This judgment from the EFTA Court clarifies the interpretation of Article 7(1)(b) of Directive 2004/38/EC, concerning the right of EU citizens and their family members to move and reside freely within the territory of Member States. The Court ruled that when assessing whether an EEA national has sufficient resources under Article 7(1)(b), all resources available to that EEA national must be considered, irrespective of their origin. This includes resources provided in whole or in part by a third-country national.
EFTA Surveillance Authority (ESA) Notice
This notice from the EFTA Surveillance Authority (ESA) announces the applicable interest rates for state aid recovery and the reference/discount rates for EFTA States, effective from May 1, 2025. The base rates are specified for Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. These rates are crucial for calculating the financial burden on companies that have received illegal state aid and for determining the advantage conferred by aid granted at below-market rates.
Request for Advisory Opinion from the EFTA Court
This document is a request for an Advisory Opinion from the EFTA Court by the Supreme Court of Norway. The request concerns the interpretation of Article 5 of Directive 2008/104/EC on temporary agency work. Specifically, the Supreme Court of Norway seeks clarification on whether Article 5 of the Temporary Agency Work Directive applies to employees of a temporary work agency domiciled in an EEA State when they are hired out to an undertaking also domiciled in the same EEA State, but working on a vessel connected to petroleum activities on that State’s continental shelf.
EFTA Surveillance Authority Decision regarding Norwegian Aid Scheme
This is a decision by the EFTA Surveillance Authority regarding a Norwegian aid scheme for the development of a new floating offshore wind farm in Utsira Nord. The Authority has decided not to raise objections to this state aid measure. The scheme aims to support the development of cost-effective floating offshore wind projects through direct grants, with a total budget of NOK 35 billion. The auction for the aid is scheduled for 2028-2029.
EFTA Surveillance Authority Decision regarding Norwegian Tax Refund Scheme
This is a decision by the EFTA Surveillance Authority regarding amendments to the Norwegian tax refund scheme for employing seafarers. The decision states that the Authority has no objections to the state aid measure. The scheme aims to support the maritime transport sector through tax and social security refunds for companies employing seafarers.
Review of each of legal acts published today:
Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/1719 of 28 May 2025 amending Regulation (EU) 2019/1241 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards geographic coordinates in Annexes VII and XIII thereto
This Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/1719 focuses on correcting errors in the geographic coordinates specified in Annexes VII and XIII of Regulation (EU) 2019/1241, which concerns technical measures for fisheries and marine ecosystem conservation. The corrections address inaccuracies reported by the South-Western Waters Member States (regarding areas in the Cantabrian Sea) and by BALTFISH (regarding sites in the Baltic Sea). These errors, present in all language versions, needed rectification to ensure the accurate implementation of fishing restrictions and mitigation measures.
The regulation amends Annexes VII and XIII of the principal Regulation (EU) 2019/1241. Specifically, it replaces point 5.1 in Part C of Annex VII, which details the coordinates for areas in the western Cantabrian Sea where fishing with bottom set longlines and bottom trawls is prohibited during certain months. In Annex XIII, Part A is amended to correct coordinates for the “Northern Midsea Bank” area and to update coordinates and descriptions for Natura 2000 sites including “Westliche Rönnebank”, “Adlergrund”, “Pommersche Bucht mit Oderbank” and “Pommersche Bucht”. These amendments involve replacing existing text with corrected coordinates and descriptions, ensuring clarity and precision in defining restricted or regulated areas.
The most important provisions for users lie in the corrected geographic coordinates within Annexes VII and XIII. Fishermen and regulatory bodies need to be aware of these updated coordinates to comply with the established time-area closures and fishing restrictions. The accuracy of these coordinates is crucial for the effective enforcement of conservation measures and for avoiding unintentional breaches of the regulation.
Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/789 of 23 April 2025 supplementing Regulation (EU) No 575/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to regulatory technical standards specifying the conditions and indicators that the EBA is to use to determine whether extraordinary circumstances in the sense of Article 325az(5) and Article 325bf(6) of that Regulation have occurred
This Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/789 specifies the conditions and indicators that the European Banking Authority (EBA) will use to determine whether extraordinary circumstances have occurred, allowing institutions to potentially deviate from certain requirements related to internal models for market risk. These circumstances relate to significant cross-border financial market stress or major regime shifts that affect institutions across the Union. The regulation aims to provide clarity on when such extraordinary circumstances can be invoked, ensuring that any non-compliance with back-testing or profit and loss attribution requirements is due to events beyond the institutions’ control and not due to deficiencies in their internal models.
The regulation consists of two articles. Article 1 outlines the conditions and indicators the EBA will use to assess whether extraordinary circumstances have occurred. It states that the EBA will consider a 250-day business period as extraordinary if it contains a timespan where a significant cross-border financial market stress or a major regime shift has occurred, and this stress or shift is likely to make back-testing or profit and loss attribution tests non-representative of the internal model’s adequacy. It also lists indicators the EBA should consider, including volatility indices, comparison of volatility levels to those of past crises like the global financial crisis or the COVID-19 pandemic, the speed at which the stress or shift manifested, and analysis of relevant correlations and correlation indicators. Article 2 stipulates that the regulation will enter into force twenty days after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.
The most important provisions for practical use are those in Article 1, which detail the specific conditions and indicators the EBA will use to determine the existence of extraordinary circumstances. These provisions provide a framework for institutions and competent authorities to assess whether a period of market stress or regime shift is severe enough to warrant a deviation from the standard requirements for internal models. The emphasis on factors like the magnitude and speed of changes in volatility and correlations, as well as comparison to past crises, offers a structured approach to evaluating the impact of market events on the representativeness of back-testing and profit and loss attribution tests.
Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/928 of 21 May 2025 amending Regulation (EU) 2019/125 of the European Parliament and of the Council concerning trade in certain goods which could be used for capital punishment, torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment
This Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/928 amends Regulation (EU) 2019/125, which concerns trade in goods that could be used for capital punishment, torture, or other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment. The key aim is to update the lists of prohibited and controlled goods to reflect changes in technology, market developments, and the misuse of law enforcement equipment. The regulation replaces Annex II (prohibited goods) and Annex III (controlled goods requiring authorization) of the original regulation with updated lists.
The regulation consists of two articles. Article 1 replaces Annex II and Annex III of Regulation (EU) 2019/125 with the texts provided in Annex I and Annex II of this regulation, respectively. Article 2 specifies that the regulation will come into force twenty days after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union and confirms that it is binding and directly applicable in all Member States. The main change involves updating the lists of goods in Annexes II and III to ensure they remain current with technological and market developments.
The most important provisions for users are the updated lists of prohibited (Annex II) and controlled (Annex III) goods. Annex II lists goods with no practical use other than for capital punishment or torture, the trade of which is entirely prohibited. Annex III lists goods that could be used for torture or other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment, primarily those used for law enforcement, and require authorization for export. Economic operators and competent authorities should carefully review these updated lists to ensure compliance with the regulation.
Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/927 of 20 May 2025 supplementing Directive 2003/87/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards measures adopted by the International Civil Aviation Organization for the monitoring, reporting and verification of aviation emissions for the purpose of implementing a global market-based measure and repealing Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/1603
Here’s a breakdown of the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/927:
**1. Essence of the Act:**
This regulation updates the rules for monitoring, reporting, and verifying aviation emissions to align with the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the EU Emission Trading System (ETS). It specifies how aircraft operators should monitor and report their emissions, including the use of CORSIA-eligible fuels, and how the cancellation of emission units for offsetting under CORSIA should be verified and reported. The regulation aims to ensure consistency with international standards and avoid double-counting of emission reductions. It replaces and repeals the previous Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/1603 to reflect changes in EU law and ICAO standards.
**2. Structure and Main Provisions:**
* **Scope (Article 1):** Defines which aircraft operators and flights are subject to the regulation, focusing on international flights covered by the EU ETS and flights to/from overseas countries and territories.
* **Definitions (Article 2):** Clarifies key terms like “CORSIA eligible fuel” and “emissions unit.”
* **Administering Member State (Article 3):** Specifies which Member State an aircraft operator reports to, based on its listing in Commission Regulation (EC) No 748/2009 or where it holds an air operator certificate.
* **Monitoring and Reporting of Emissions (Article 4):** States that aircraft operators must follow the same requirements as those in Implementing Regulation (EU) 2018/2066 unless this regulation specifies otherwise.
* **Monitoring and Reporting of CORSIA Eligible Fuels (Article 5):** Details how aircraft operators should monitor and report the quantity of CORSIA eligible fuels purchased and used, including specific information on fuel type, mass, lifecycle emissions, and reductions claimed. It also requires a declaration listing all greenhouse gas schemes the operator participates in to prevent double-claiming.
* **Verification of Data (Article 6):** Sets out the requirements for verifying emissions data and CORSIA eligible fuels data, including accreditation of verifiers by national accreditation bodies. It outlines specific verification objectives and the scope of verification activities.
* **Reporting on Emissions Unit Cancellation (Article 7):** Specifies the process for aircraft operators to report the cancellation of emissions units to meet their offsetting requirements under CORSIA, including the information to be included in the emissions unit cancellation report.
* **Verification of Emissions Unit Cancellation Reports (Article 8):** Details the verification process for emissions unit cancellation reports, including accreditation of verifiers and the objectives and scope of the verification.
* **Transmission of Data to ICAO (Article 9):** Requires Member States to transmit relevant emissions data and information on emissions unit cancellation to the ICAO Secretariat, ensuring data accuracy and consistency.
* **Repeal and Transitional Provision (Articles 10 & 11):** Repeals Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/1603 and ensures that the new regulation applies to emissions and CORSIA eligible fuels used from January 1, 2024.
* **Entry into Force (Article 12):** States that the regulation enters into force shortly after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.
**Main changes compared to previous versions:**
The regulation repeals and replaces Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/1603 to align with amendments to Directive 2003/87/EC and the latest ICAO CORSIA standards. Key updates include:
* Specific rules for monitoring, reporting, and verifying the use of CORSIA eligible fuels.
* Requirements for the cancellation of emissions units for offsetting under CORSIA.
* Updated Annexes detailing the information required for reporting and verification.
**3. Most Important Provisions for Practical Use:**
* **Article 5 (Monitoring and Reporting of CORSIA Eligible Fuels):** This is crucial for aircraft operators planning to use CORSIA eligible fuels to reduce their offsetting requirements. It details the specific data and documentation needed for reporting.
* **Article 6 (Verification of Data):** This is important for both aircraft operators and verifiers, as it outlines the accreditation requirements for verifiers and the scope and objectives of the verification process for emissions and CORSIA eligible fuels.
* **Articles 7 & 8 (Reporting and Verification of Emissions Unit Cancellation):** These articles are vital for aircraft operators needing to offset their emissions, as they specify how to report and verify the cancellation of emissions units.
* **Article 9 (Transmission of Data to ICAO):** This is primarily for Member States, but aircraft operators should be aware of the data that their Member State will be transmitting to ICAO, as it is based on their reported emissions.
Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1560 of 30 July 2025 authorising a health claim made on foods, other than those referring to the reduction of disease risk and to children’s development and health, and amending Regulation (EU) No 432/2012
This Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1560 authorises a specific health claim regarding green kiwifruit and its effect on bowel function. It allows food businesses to state that consuming green kiwifruit contributes to normal bowel function by increasing stool frequency, provided certain conditions are met. This regulation amends Regulation (EU) No 432/2012 to include this new authorised health claim in the Union list of permitted health claims on foods.
The structure of the act is straightforward. It begins with recitals that explain the reasoning behind the regulation, referencing Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 on nutrition and health claims made on foods, and the scientific opinion of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). It then lays out three articles: Article 1 mandates the inclusion of the health claim in the Union list, Article 2 amends the Annex to Regulation (EU) No 432/2012, and Article 3 specifies the date of entry into force. The Annex to the regulation provides the specific wording of the authorised claim, the conditions of use, and reference to the EFSA Journal.
The most important provisions for practical use are found in the Annex. Specifically, the claim “Consumption of green kiwifruit contributes to normal bowel function by increasing stool frequency” can only be used for fresh green kiwifruits sold as such, or those that have only been peeled and/or cut. The claim is valid only when a minimum of 200g of kiwi flesh is provided, and consumers must be informed that the beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of this amount.
Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1542 of 30 July 2025 specifying the modalities, structure and assessment indicators for the quality reports to be transmitted pursuant to Regulation (EC) No 138/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council
This is Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1542 specifying the modalities, structure and assessment indicators for the quality reports related to the Economic Accounts for Agriculture in the European Union. The Regulation aims to ensure common quality reporting standards for the exchange of quality-related data and metadata. It mandates Member States to transmit quality reports to the Commission (Eurostat) periodically, detailing the quality of their agricultural economic accounts data. The Regulation also establishes a framework for assessing the quality of the transmitted data and metadata.
The Regulation consists of 4 articles and 2 annexes.
* **Article 1** defines the modalities for the transmission of quality reports, specifying that Member States must submit a report for the reference year 2023 and subsequently every five years. It also mandates the use of the European Statistical System transmission standard for sending the reports.
* **Article 2** outlines the structure of the quality reports, requiring a single report covering all data of the Economic Accounts for Agriculture transmission programme. It also specifies that the reports should explain any instances of non-compliance with quality standards or incorrect application of statistical concepts.
* **Article 3** states that the quality of data and metadata will be assessed based on the quality and performance indicators outlined in Annex II.
* **Article 4** defines the entry into force of the regulation.
* **Annex I** details the structure and contents of the quality reports, listing the statistical concepts and quality criteria to be included, such as statistical presentation, confidentiality, relevance, accuracy, timeliness, and coherence.
* **Annex II** specifies the quality and performance indicators to be used for assessing the quality of the Economic Accounts for Agriculture data and metadata, including metadata completeness rate, data completeness rate for producers, time lag for first results, punctuality of delivery, length of comparable time series, and average absolute size of data revisions.
The most important provisions for users are those concerning the content and structure of the quality reports (Article 2 and Annex I), as these define what information Member States must provide regarding the quality of their agricultural economic accounts data. Also important are the assessment indicators (Article 3 and Annex II), which will be used to evaluate the quality of the data and metadata transmitted by Member States.
Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1528 of 30 July 2025 authorising the placing on the market of Cyperus esculentus (tiger nut) oil as a novel food and amending Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/2470
This Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1528 authorises the placing of Cyperus esculentus (tiger nut) oil on the market as a novel food within the European Union. It amends Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/2470 to include tiger nut oil in the Union list of novel foods. The regulation specifies the conditions of use, labelling requirements, and technical specifications for tiger nut oil.
The regulation consists of two articles and an annex. Article 1 authorises the placing on the market of Cyperus esculentus (tiger nut) oil within the Union and its inclusion in the Union list of novel foods. Article 2 states that the regulation will enter into force twenty days after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. The annex amends the Annex to Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/2470 by adding entries for Cyperus esculentus (tiger nut) oil in Table 1 (Authorised novel foods) and Table 2 (Specifications).
The most important provisions of this act are those specifying the conditions under which tiger nut oil can be used in various food categories, including maximum levels, specific labelling requirements (“Cyperus esculentus (tiger nut) oil”), and the detailed specifications for the oil’s composition, characteristics, heavy metal content, mycotoxin levels, and microbiological criteria. These specifications ensure the safety and quality of the tiger nut oil for consumers.
Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1545 of 30 July 2025 amending Implementing Regulation (EU) 2018/2019 as regards certain plants for planting of Cornus alba, Cornus sanguinea, Populus alba, Populus nigra, Populus tremula, Sorbus aucuparia and Taxus baccata originating in the United Kingdom and amending Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/1213 as regards the phytosanitary measures for the introduction into the Union territory of plants for planting of Cornus alba and Cornus sanguinea originating in the United Kingdom
This is Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1545, which amends two previous regulations, Implementing Regulation (EU) 2018/2019 and Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/1213, concerning phytosanitary measures for certain plants originating in the United Kingdom. The regulation updates the list of high-risk plants and specifies the phytosanitary measures required for importing certain plants for planting from the UK into the Union territory. This decision is based on scientific opinions from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) regarding the risk assessment of these plants.
The structure of the regulation is as follows: It consists of three articles and two annexes. Article 1 amends the Annex to Implementing Regulation (EU) 2018/2019, modifying the entries for Cornus L., Populus L., Sorbus L., and Taxus L. to exclude certain plants originating in the United Kingdom. Article 2 amends the Annex to Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/1213 by adding an entry for specific types of Cornus alba and Cornus sanguinea plants from the UK, outlining the phytosanitary measures required for their import. Article 3 states that the regulation will come into force on the third day following its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. Compared to the previous versions, this regulation reflects updated risk assessments and modifies import requirements based on those assessments.
The most important provisions of this act are those specifying the conditions under which certain plants for planting can be imported from the United Kingdom into the European Union. Specifically, it details which plants of Cornus, Populus, Sorbus, and Taxus are no longer considered high-risk and outlines the phytosanitary measures required for importing certain Cornus alba and Cornus sanguinea plants. These measures include official statements regarding the absence of Discula destructiva, inspections of production sites, and specific declarations on phytosanitary certificates.
Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1549 of 30 July 2025 correcting Implementing Regulations (EU) 2023/2210 and (EU) 2022/1365 as regards the conditions of use of the novel foods 3-Fucosyllactose produced by a derivative strain of Escherichia coli K-12 DH1 and Schizochytrium sp. oil rich in DHA and EPA
This Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1549 addresses errors found in previous regulations concerning novel foods, specifically Implementing Regulations (EU) 2023/2210 and (EU) 2022/1365. The regulation aims to correct the conditions of use for 3-Fucosyllactose (3-FL) and Schizochytrium sp. oil rich in DHA and EPA to ensure clarity, legal certainty, and proper implementation of the Union list of novel foods. By rectifying these errors, the regulation facilitates the correct application of novel food authorisations by food business operators and Member States’ authorities.
The structure of the regulation is straightforward. It consists of three articles and two annexes. Article 1 and 2 stipulate the corrections to Implementing Regulations (EU) 2022/1365 and (EU) 2023/2210, respectively, as detailed in Annex I and II. Article 3 specifies the date of entry into force. Annex I replaces the table in Implementing Regulation (EU) 2022/1365 concerning the conditions of use for Schizochytrium sp. oil, adding the use in food supplements for children from 18 months to 18 years of age at levels of 250 mg/day. Annex II replaces the table in Implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/2210 regarding 3-FL, including its use in foods for special medical purposes intended for infants and young children.
The most important provisions for practical use are the corrected conditions for using Schizochytrium sp. oil in food supplements for young children and the inclusion of 3-FL in foods for special medical purposes for infants and young children. These corrections ensure that the regulations align with the original intentions and the scientific assessments conducted by the European Food Safety Authority, providing clarity for manufacturers and ensuring appropriate use of these novel foods in specific populations.
Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1573 of 30 July 2025 amending Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/1483 imposing a definitive anti-dumping duty on imports of stainless steel cold-rolled flat products originating in the People’s Republic of China and Taiwan following an expiry review pursuant to Article 11(2) of Regulation (EU) 2016/1036 of the European Parliament and of the Council
This Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1573 amends Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/1483, which imposed definitive anti-dumping duties on imports of stainless steel cold-rolled flat products originating in the People’s Republic of China and Taiwan. The amendment concerns a change of name of a company subject to an individual anti-dumping duty. The regulation ensures that the change of name does not affect the company’s entitlement to the previously assigned anti-dumping duty rate.
The regulation consists of two articles. Article 1 addresses the amendment to the Annex of Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/1483, specifically replacing “Lianzhong Stainless Steel Corporation” with “Angang Lianzhong Stainless Steel Corporation” while maintaining the TARIC additional code C026. It also stipulates that the TARIC code C026 applies to the new company name as of July 11, 2024, and any excess duties paid due to the name change will be reimbursed. Article 2 states that the regulation will enter into force the day after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union and is binding in its entirety and directly applicable in all Member States.
The most important provision is Article 1, which ensures the continuity of the anti-dumping duty rate for Angang Lianzhong Stainless Steel Corporation (formerly Lianzhong Stainless Steel Corporation) under the same TARIC code C026. This guarantees that the company continues to be subject to the same duties as before the name change, preventing any disruption in trade or circumvention of the existing anti-dumping measures.
Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1530 of 30 July 2025 authorising the placing on the market of potassium magnesium trichloride hexahydrate as a novel food and amending Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/2470
This Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/1530 authorises the use of potassium magnesium trichloride hexahydrate as a novel food within the European Union. This novel food is intended to be used as a salt substitute in specific food categories for the adult population. The regulation amends Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/2470 to include this novel food in the Union list of novel foods.
The regulation consists of four articles and an annex. Article 1 authorises the placing on the market of potassium magnesium trichloride hexahydrate within the Union and its inclusion in the Union list of novel foods. Article 2 grants exclusive rights to BK Giulini GmbH, member of ICL Group, to place this novel food on the market for five years, with exceptions for subsequent authorisations based on independent data. Article 3 protects the scientific studies and data submitted by BK Giulini GmbH for five years, preventing their use by subsequent applicants without consent. Article 4 specifies the date of entry into force of the regulation. The annex amends Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/2470 by adding potassium magnesium trichloride hexahydrate to the list of authorised novel foods, specifying conditions of use, labelling requirements, and data protection details.
The most important provisions of this act are those specifying the conditions of use for potassium magnesium trichloride hexahydrate. It can be used in raw cured or seasoned meat (at a maximum level of 1050 mg/100 g), cooked cured or seasoned meat (700 mg/100 g), cereal-based dishes (600 mg/100 g), and preserved or partly preserved sausages (1050 mg/100 g). The regulation also mandates specific labelling requirements, including the designation “potassium magnesium mineral salt” and, where applicable, the inclusion of potassium and/or magnesium content in the nutrition declaration. Furthermore, the data protection provision ensures that BK Giulini GmbH has exclusive rights to the novel food for five years, safeguarding their investment in the research and development of this product.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2025/1212 of 24 June 2025 amending Annex II to Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards maximum residue levels for acetamiprid in or on certain products
This Commission Regulation (EU) 2025/1212 modifies Annex II of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, which concerns the maximum residue levels (MRLs) for acetamiprid, a type of insecticide, in or on specific agricultural products. The regulation adjusts these levels for plums, linseeds, poppy seeds, mustard seeds, gold of pleasure seeds, honey, other apiculture products, and soybeans to align with scientific assessments and international standards. These adjustments ensure consumer safety while considering the agricultural needs and international trade standards.
The regulation consists of a preamble that outlines the reasoning and legal basis for the changes, followed by two articles and an annex. The core of the regulation is the amendment to Annex II of the original Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, which lists specific MRLs for acetamiprid in various products. The amendments include raising or lowering the MRLs for certain products based on recent evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and alignment with Codex Alimentarius Commission standards for soybeans. The regulation introduces a new, lower acceptable daily intake (ADI) and acute reference dose (ARfD) for acetamiprid, and includes the metabolite IM-2-1 in the residue definition for risk assessment in fruit and leafy crops.
The most important provisions of this regulation are the revised MRLs for acetamiprid in specific products, as these directly impact agricultural practices, trade, and consumer safety. For instance, the MRL for plums is modified, and new entries are added for linseeds, poppy seeds, mustard seeds, gold of pleasure seeds, and honey and other apiculture products. Additionally, the alignment with the Codex Alimentarius Commission standard for soybeans is significant for international trade. The new ADI and ARfD values, along with the inclusion of metabolite IM-2-1, change the risk assessment for acetamiprid, particularly in fruits and leafy crops.
Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Armenia establishing a framework for the participation of the Republic of Armenia in European Union crisis management operations
This agreement establishes a framework for the Republic of Armenia’s participation in European Union crisis management operations. It outlines the general conditions for Armenia’s involvement, emphasizing that such participation is subject to the EU’s decision-making autonomy and Armenia’s own decision to contribute on a case-by-case basis. The agreement covers both civilian and military crisis management operations, detailing aspects such as the status of personnel, chain of command, financial responsibilities, and the handling of classified information. It aims to streamline the process for Armenia’s contributions to EU crisis management efforts, fostering cooperation in maintaining peace and security.
The agreement is structured into four main sections:
* **Section I (General Provisions):** Establishes the foundational principles, including decision-making processes for participation, the framework for Armenia’s involvement, the status of Armenian personnel and forces, and the handling of classified information.
* **Section II (Provisions on Participation in EU Civilian Crisis Management Operations):** Details the specific conditions for Armenia’s involvement in civilian operations, including the roles and responsibilities of personnel, the chain of command, financial aspects, and contributions to the operational budget.
* **Section III (Provisions on Participation in EU Military Crisis Management Operations):** Focuses on the specifics of Armenia’s participation in military operations, covering the conduct of forces and personnel, the chain of command, financial responsibilities, and contributions to common costs.
* **Section IV (Final Provisions):** Addresses implementation arrangements, competent authorities, non-compliance, dispute settlement, entry into force, duration, and termination of the agreement.
**Main Provisions to note:**
* **Article 1:** Outlines the decision-making process for Armenia’s participation, requiring Armenia to communicate its decision and proposed contribution to the EU following an invitation.
* **Article 3:** Defines the status of Armenian personnel and forces participating in EU crisis management operations, including jurisdictional aspects and responsibility for claims.
* **Articles 7 and 8:** Clarify the financial responsibilities for civilian crisis management operations, with Armenia generally assuming its own costs but potentially contributing to the operational budget, subject to certain exemptions.
* **Articles 11 and 12:** Detail the financial responsibilities for military crisis management operations, similar to civilian operations, with potential contributions to common costs and exemptions.
* **Article 4:** Requires Armenia to protect EU classified information according to EU security rules.
This agreement does not replace any previous versions, as it is a new framework specifically designed for Armenia’s participation in EU crisis management operations.
Agreement between the European Union, of the one part, and the Republic of Korea, of the other part, on the participation of the Republic of Korea in Union programmes
Here’s a breakdown of the agreement between the EU and the Republic of Korea regarding Korea’s participation in Union programs:
**1. Essence of the Act:**
This agreement establishes a framework for the Republic of Korea (Korea) to participate in specific European Union (EU) programs and activities. It outlines the terms, conditions, and financial contributions required for Korean participation, aiming to foster cooperation and mutual benefits in areas of shared interest, particularly in research and innovation. The agreement sets up a Joint Committee to manage and adapt the terms of this collaboration over time.
**2. Structure and Main Provisions:**
* **Subject Matter and Definitions (Articles 1-2):** Defines the scope of the agreement, focusing on Union programs or activities covered by specific protocols. It also provides definitions for key terms like “basic act,” “funding agreement,” and “Korean entity.”
* **Establishment of Participation (Article 3):** Korea can participate in Union programs or activities open to them, as defined in protocols to the agreement. Specific terms for participation in Horizon Europe are detailed in a dedicated protocol.
* **Compliance with Rules (Article 4):** Korea must adhere to the rules of the Union program or activity in which it participates, including eligibility criteria and conditions for submitting applications.
* **Governance (Article 5):** Korean representatives can participate as observers in committees and expert groups related to programs they are involved in, with certain limitations to ensure fair governance.
* **Financial Conditions (Article 6):** Participation requires a financial contribution from Korea, consisting of an operational contribution and a participation fee. The operational contribution is based on Korea’s GDP relative to the EU’s.
* **Adjustment and Correction Mechanisms (Articles 7-8):** The agreement includes mechanisms for adjusting Korea’s financial contribution based on budgetary commitments and for correcting imbalances between contributions and actual participation.
* **Reviews, Audits, and Protection of Financial Interests (Articles 9-12):** The EU has the right to conduct audits and investigations on Korean entities receiving Union funding to ensure proper use of funds and to protect against fraud. Korea is obligated to cooperate in these efforts.
* **Communication and Management (Articles 13-17):** Establishes channels for communication, sets up a Joint Committee to oversee the agreement, and includes standard clauses on applicable law, consultations, entry into force, termination, and amendments.
* **Annexes:** The agreement includes an annex detailing the Rules of Procedure for the Joint Committee.
* **Protocol on Horizon Europe:** A specific protocol outlines the terms and conditions for Korea’s association with Horizon Europe, including financial contributions, participation rules, and reciprocity measures.
**3. Main Provisions for Practical Use:**
* **Article 3:** This article is important as it defines how Korea will participate in Union programs or activities.
* **Article 6:** This article is important as it defines the financial obligations of Korea.
* **Articles 9 and 10:** These articles are important as they define the rules for audits and investigations.
* **Article 14:** This article is important as it defines the functions of the Joint Committee.
* **Protocol on Horizon Europe:** This protocol is important as it defines the terms and conditions for Korea’s association with Horizon Europe.
JUDGMENT OF THE COURT of 11 March 2025 in Case E-23/24 – AO and IM (Admissibility – Article 34 SCA – The notion of court or tribunal – The concept of independence – Article 1(2)(b) EEA – Free movement of persons – Directive 2004/38/EC – Article 7 – The concept of a worker – The condition of sufficient resources)
This is a judgment from the Court regarding Case E-23/24, “AO and IM,” concerning the interpretation of Article 7(1)(b) of Directive 2004/38/EC, which relates to the right of EU citizens and their family members to move and reside freely within the territory of Member States. The case specifically addresses whether an EEA national and their family member can be considered to have sufficient resources, as required by the Directive, even if those resources come from the income of a third-country national. The Immigration Appeals Board (Utlendingsnemnda) referred the request to the Court.
The judgment consists of a single operative part, which provides the Court’s ruling on the question presented. It clarifies that when assessing whether an EEA national has sufficient resources under Article 7(1)(b) of Directive 2004/38/EC, all resources available to that EEA national must be considered, irrespective of their origin. This includes resources provided in whole or in part by a third-country national.
The most important provision of this judgment is the clarification that the origin of the resources is irrelevant when assessing whether an EEA national meets the “sufficient resources” requirement for residency under Directive 2004/38/EC. Member States must consider all available resources, even those provided by a third-country national, when evaluating whether an individual meets the economic requirements for residency.
EFTA Surveillance Authority’s notice on state aid recovery interest rates and reference/discount rates for the EFTA States applicable as of 1 May 2025 – Published in accordance with the rules on reference and discount rates set out in Part VII of ESA’s State Aid Guidelines and Article 10 of ESA’s Decision No 195/04/COL 14 July 2004
This notice from the EFTA Surveillance Authority (ESA) announces the applicable interest rates for state aid recovery and the reference/discount rates for EFTA States, effective from May 1, 2025. These rates are crucial for calculating the financial burden on companies that have received illegal state aid and for determining the advantage conferred by aid granted at below-market rates. The notice ensures transparency and compliance with state aid rules within the European Economic Area (EEA).
The notice is structured very simply: it contains a brief introductory paragraph explaining its legal basis, followed by a table presenting the base rates for Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. The base rates are calculated according to the methodology outlined in ESA’s State Aid Guidelines, as amended. To determine the actual reference rates used for specific cases, appropriate margins, as defined in the State Aid Guidelines, must be added to these base rates. There are no changes compared to previous versions, as this is a regular update of applicable rates.
The most important provision is the table specifying the base rates for each EFTA State. These rates are the foundation for calculating the reference and discount rates used in state aid assessments. Businesses, legal professionals, and national authorities in Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway need to be aware of these rates to accurately assess the financial implications of state aid measures.
Request for an Advisory Opinion from the EFTA Court by the Supreme Court of Norway dated 11 April 2025 in the case of Saga Subsea AS v Akselsen and Granlund (Case E-6/25)
This document is a request for an Advisory Opinion from the EFTA Court by the Supreme Court of Norway. The request concerns the interpretation of Article 5 of Directive 2008/104/EC on temporary agency work. Specifically, the Supreme Court of Norway seeks clarification on whether Article 5 of the Temporary Agency Work Directive applies to employees of a temporary work agency domiciled in an EEA State when they are hired out to an undertaking also domiciled in the same EEA State, but working on a vessel connected to petroleum activities on that State’s continental shelf.
**Structure and Main Provisions:**
The document is structured as a formal request from the Supreme Court of Norway to the EFTA Court. It identifies the parties involved in the underlying case (Saga Subsea AS v Akselsen and Granlund) and presents a single, specific question for the EFTA Court’s consideration. The core provision at issue is Article 5 of Directive 2008/104/EC, which deals with the principle of equal treatment for temporary agency workers. The request seeks to clarify the scope of this article in a particular factual scenario involving offshore petroleum activities.
**Main Provisions for Use:**
The key element of this document is the specific question posed to the EFTA Court. This question highlights a potential ambiguity in the application of the Temporary Agency Work Directive, specifically concerning the geographical and operational scope of the directive in the context of offshore work. The EFTA Court’s advisory opinion will be crucial in determining whether the equal treatment provisions of the Directive extend to temporary agency workers employed on vessels involved in petroleum activities on a state’s continental shelf.
State aid – Decision to raise no objections
This is a decision by the EFTA Surveillance Authority regarding a Norwegian aid scheme for the development of a new floating offshore wind farm in Utsira Nord. The Authority has decided not to raise objections to this state aid measure. The scheme aims to support the development of cost-effective floating offshore wind projects through direct grants, with a total budget of NOK 35 billion. The aid intensity will be determined through a competitive bidding procedure, and the auction for the aid is scheduled for 2028-2029.
The decision provides key details about the aid scheme, including the date of adoption (April 15, 2025), the case number (93862), and the decision number (067/25/COL). It identifies Norway as the EFTA State providing the aid and specifies the legal basis as the Parliamentary Decision authorizing support for the wind farm development. The type of measure is defined as a scheme with the objective of supporting cost-effective floating offshore wind projects. The form of aid is a direct grant, and the economic sector involved is the production of electricity from floating offshore wind (NACE D.35.1.1). The granting authority is the Ministry of Energy in Norway.
The most important provisions for potential users are the budget (NOK 35 billion), the timing of the auction (2028-2029), and the fact that the aid intensity will be decided by a competitive bidding procedure. This indicates that companies interested in developing floating offshore wind farms in Utsira Nord will need to participate in this auction to secure funding. The reference to the EFTA Surveillance Authority’s website provides a link to the authentic text of the decision, which contains further details, with all confidential information removed.
State aid – Decision to raise no objections
This is a decision by the EFTA Surveillance Authority regarding amendments to the Norwegian tax refund scheme for employing seafarers. The decision states that the Authority has no objections to the state aid measure. The scheme aims to support the maritime transport sector through tax and social security refunds for companies employing seafarers. The legal basis for the scheme is the Regulation on subsidies for the employment of workers at sea of 26 February 2016 No 204.
The decision itself is a short notification that the EFTA Surveillance Authority has reviewed and approved the amendments to the existing Norwegian tax refund scheme. It provides key details such as the date of the decision (30 April 2025), the case number (93833), the decision number (066/25/COL), and the EFTA State involved (Norway). It identifies the title of the aid measure as “Amendments to the Norwegian tax refund scheme for employing seafarers,” its objective as maritime transport, and the form of aid as tax and social security refunds. The granting authority is the Norwegian Maritime Authority. The decision refers to the authentic text available on the EFTA Surveillance Authority’s website for further details.
The most important aspect of this decision is that it greenlights the amended Norwegian tax refund scheme for employing seafarers, ensuring that it complies with state aid regulations. This allows Norway to continue supporting its maritime transport sector through these refunds without facing objections from the EFTA Surveillance Authority. For companies in the maritime transport sector employing seafarers in Norway, this means they can continue to benefit from the tax and social security refunds as outlined in the scheme.
