{"id":17888,"date":"2026-06-27T10:11:39","date_gmt":"2026-06-27T07:11:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lexcovery.com\/2026\/06\/review-of-the-eu-legislation-for-27-06-2026\/"},"modified":"2026-06-27T10:11:39","modified_gmt":"2026-06-27T07:11:39","slug":"review-of-the-eu-legislation-for-27-06-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lexcovery.com\/en\/2026\/06\/review-of-the-eu-legislation-for-27-06-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"Review of the EU legislation for 27\/06\/2026"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Below is the requested review of the provided EU legal acts:<\/p>\n<h3>Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026\/1418<\/h3>\n<p>This regulation formally registers the Slovakian product &#8220;Brhlovsk\u00e9 podlievan\u00e9 buchty&#8221; as a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI). The act mandates that only products originating from the Brhlovce region and strictly adhering to the established product specification may be marketed under this name. It provides binding legal protection across the EU against imitation, misuse, or evocation, effective twenty days after publication.<\/p>\n<h3>Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026\/1397<\/h3>\n<p>This act serves as an administrative update to Annex X of Regulation (EC) No 4\/2009 regarding the enforcement of maintenance decisions in Finland. It replaces outdated institutional designations with the current Finnish administrative structure, specifically naming &#8220;Wellbeing services counties,&#8221; the City of Helsinki, and municipalities in the province of \u00c5land as the competent authorities for cross-border maintenance recovery.<\/p>\n<h3>Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026\/1398<\/h3>\n<p>This regulation updates the list of recognized control bodies authorized to certify organic products imported into the EU from third countries. It grants recognition to six new control bodies, expands the operational scope of ten existing ones, and reduces the scope for two others. Importers must verify that the specific product category and country of origin match the current authorization held by the relevant control body as detailed in the regulation\u2019s annex.<\/p>\n<h3>Regulation (EU) 2026\/1386<\/h3>\n<p>This regulation establishes a mandatory, harmonized framework for screening foreign investments on grounds of security and public order. It requires all Member States to implement screening mechanisms that include a &#8220;prior authorization&#8221; process for sensitive sectors, such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, critical infrastructure, and energy. It introduces a cooperation mechanism for sharing information on sensitive transactions and mandates that investments be assessed against standardized risk criteria.<\/p>\n<h3>Regulation (EU) 2026\/1392 (FRM Regulation)<\/h3>\n<p>This act replaces the 1999 Directive on forest reproductive material (FRM) with a uniform EU regulation to enhance climate-resilient forestry. It mandates strict electronic traceability, registration of basic material, and the use of the centralized FOREMATIS platform. Professional operators are required to provide detailed information on the origin and climate suitability of reproductive material, with compliance enforced through the EU&#8217;s official controls framework.<\/p>\n<h3>Commission Regulation (EU) 2026\/1383<\/h3>\n<p>This regulation updates the EU&#8217;s implementation of CITES by amending the Annexes of Regulation (EC) No 338\/97 to reflect decisions from the 20th Conference of the Parties. It reclassifies several species, updates scientific nomenclatures, and adjusts trade annotations. The act serves as the primary manual for customs and trade compliance, defining strictly regulated or prohibited species and establishing the specific documentation required for the legal movement of wildlife products.<\/p>\n<h3>Regulation (EU) 2026\/1388<\/h3>\n<p>This regulation introduces a dual-tiered framework for plants obtained through &#8220;New Genomic Techniques&#8221; (NGTs). &#8220;Category 1&#8221; NGT plants, deemed equivalent to conventionally bred plants, are exempt from standard GMO authorization but require labeling and database registration. &#8220;Category 2&#8221; plants remain subject to adapted GMO legislation. It establishes a verification procedure to categorize plants and includes provisions for fair access to patented biological material.<\/p>\n<h3>Notice on the Agreement on the Interpretation of the Energy Charter Treaty<\/h3>\n<p>This notification confirms that the Agreement on the interpretation and application of the Energy Charter Treaty (ECT) became fully operational on 25 June 2026. This act serves as the definitive reference for the date from which new interpretive standards for the ECT are legally binding, thereby limiting the scope for divergent interpretations in investment arbitration or regulatory compliance.<\/p>\n<h3>Decision No 1\/2026 of the Joint Committee (EU-Iceland)<\/h3>\n<p>This decision updates the bilateral agreement between the EU and Iceland regarding the mutual protection of geographical indications (GIs). It synchronizes the list of protected products and adopts Regulation (EU) 2024\/1143 as the governing legal framework for GIs in the EU. The Annex to this decision acts as the official registry of protected agricultural and food product names recognized by both parties.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Review of each of legal acts published today:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/AUTO\/?uri=CELEX:32026R1418\"><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026\/1418 of 22\u00a0June 2026 on the registration of the geographical indication Brhlovsk\u00e9 podlievan\u00e9 buchty (PGI) in the Union register of geographical indications pursuant to Regulation (EU)\u00a02024\/1143 of the European Parliament and of the Council<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026\/1418 formalizes the entry of the Slovakian product &#8220;Brhlovsk\u00e9 podlievan\u00e9 buchty&#8221; into the European Union\u2019s register of Protected Geographical Indications (PGI). This act confirms that the product meets the stringent quality and origin requirements established under the EU\u2019s updated legal framework for geographical indications. By granting this status, the European Commission provides the product with legal protection against imitation or misuse across the single market.<\/p>\n<p>**Structure and Provisions**<br \/>\nThe regulation is concise, consisting of two operative articles and a preamble that outlines the procedural history of the application. The preamble notes that the application was initiated under the previous regulatory regime (Regulation (EU) No 1151\/2012) and finalized under the current framework (Regulation (EU) 2024\/1143).<br \/>\n*   **Article 1** serves as the core provision, explicitly mandating the entry of &#8220;Brhlovsk\u00e9 podlievan\u00e9 buchty&#8221; into the Union register.<br \/>\n*   **Article 2** establishes the timeline for entry into force, setting it for the twentieth day following its publication in the Official Journal.<br \/>\nCompared to previous registration acts, this regulation reflects the transition to the new procedural requirements introduced by Regulation (EU) 2024\/1143, which consolidated the rules for geographical indications across various agricultural sectors.<\/p>\n<p>**Main Provisions for Practical Use**<br \/>\nFor stakeholders, the most critical aspect of this regulation is the formal conferral of PGI status, which triggers the protection mechanisms defined in Regulation (EU) 2024\/1143.<br \/>\n*   **Registration:** The product is now officially recognized as a PGI, meaning that only producers adhering to the specific product specification\u2014linked to the geographical area of Brhlovce, Slovakia\u2014are authorized to use the name &#8220;Brhlovsk\u00e9 podlievan\u00e9 buchty&#8221; in commercial trade.<br \/>\n*   **Legal Standing:** The regulation is binding in its entirety and directly applicable in all EU Member States, ensuring that national authorities must enforce the protection of this name against any direct or indirect commercial use, misuse, imitation, or evocation.<br \/>\n*   **Enforcement:** Any entity seeking to market products under this name must now comply with the verification and certification procedures required for PGI-labeled goods to ensure the integrity of the designation.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/AUTO\/?uri=CELEX:32026R1397\"><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026\/1397 of 25\u00a0June 2026 replacing Annex\u00a0X to Council Regulation (EC) No\u00a04\/2009 on jurisdiction, applicable law, recognition and enforcement of decisions and cooperation in matters relating to maintenance obligations<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026\/1397 serves as a technical update to the administrative framework governing maintenance obligations across the European Union. Its primary purpose is to update the list of designated administrative authorities in Finland that are responsible for the cooperation and enforcement of maintenance decisions under Council Regulation (EC) No 4\/2009. By replacing Annex X, the Regulation ensures that legal practitioners and citizens have accurate information regarding which specific Finnish bodies are competent to handle maintenance-related requests.<\/p>\n<p>The structure of the act is concise, consisting of two operative articles and a comprehensive Annex. Article 1 formally replaces the existing Annex X of Regulation (EC) No 4\/2009 with the updated list, while Article 2 establishes the entry into force of the Regulation twenty days after its publication. The change compared to the previous version is specific to Finland: it updates the nomenclature and institutional responsibility for maintenance proceedings initiated from 1 January 2023 onwards, reflecting the shift from the former Social Welfare Board to the new &#8220;Wellbeing services counties&#8221; (Hyvinvointialue\/V\u00e4lf\u00e4rdsomr\u00e5den), the City of Helsinki, and the municipalities in the province of \u00c5land.<\/p>\n<p>The most important provision for the practical application of this act is the updated Annex X itself. This list is critical for legal professionals, central authorities, and courts because it identifies the precise administrative authorities in Latvia, Finland, Sweden, and the United Kingdom (for legacy cases) that are empowered to act under the Regulation. For anyone involved in cross-border maintenance recovery, this document serves as the definitive reference to ensure that requests for assistance or enforcement are directed to the correct, legally recognized entity in the respective Member State. <\/p>\n<p>: This Regulation is relevant to Ukrainian citizens residing in or dealing with maintenance obligations involving Finland, as it clarifies the specific administrative channels through which they must pursue or enforce maintenance claims in that jurisdiction.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/AUTO\/?uri=CELEX:32026R1398\"><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026\/1398 of 25\u00a0June 2026 amending Implementing Regulation (EU)\u00a02021\/1378 as regards the recognition of certain control bodies in accordance with Article\u00a046 of Regulation (EU)\u00a02018\/848 of the European Parliament and of the Council as competent to carry out controls and issue organic certificates in third countries for the purpose of imports of organic products into the Union<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026\/1398 serves as a formal update to the list of recognized control bodies authorized to certify organic products in third countries for import into the European Union. It ensures that only entities meeting the strict criteria of Regulation (EU) 2018\/848 are permitted to issue organic certificates for products entering the EU market. This regulation effectively expands, modifies, or clarifies the operational scope of various international certification bodies across multiple jurisdictions.<\/p>\n<p>### Structure and Main Provisions<br \/>\nThe regulation is structured as an amendment to the Annex of Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021\/1378. Its primary function is to update the technical dossiers of recognized control bodies. The changes compared to previous versions include:<br \/>\n*   **New Recognitions:** Six new control bodies (e.g., *Baltic Testing India Private Limited*, *ZENITH CERTIFICATIONS PRIVATE LIMITED*) have been granted recognition for specific product categories in designated third countries.<br \/>\n*   **Scope Extensions:** Ten existing control bodies (e.g., *bio.inspecta AG*, *Control Union Certifications B.V.*) have had their operational scope expanded, allowing them to certify additional product categories or operate in new countries.<br \/>\n*   **Scope Reductions:** Two control bodies (*Bio Latina Certificadora* and *Southern Cross Certified Australia Pty Ltd*) have requested and received a reduction in their scope of recognition, removing certain countries or product categories from their authorization.<\/p>\n<p>### Key Provisions for Practical Application<br \/>\nFor stakeholders involved in the import of organic goods, the following aspects are critical:<br \/>\n*   **Operational Authorization:** The Annex provides a precise, country-by-country and category-by-category breakdown of what each control body is authorized to certify. Importers must verify that the specific product category (A through G) and the country of origin match the current authorization listed for the relevant control body.<br \/>\n*   **Indefinite Duration:** The recognition granted to these bodies is for an indefinite duration, provided they continue to comply with the procedural requirements set out in Delegated Regulation (EU) 2021\/1698.<br \/>\n*   **Exceptions:** The regulation includes specific &#8220;exceptions&#8221; marked with an \u201c\u00b0\u201d symbol. These refer to products already covered by existing bilateral trade agreements or equivalence arrangements, which are governed by separate provisions under Article 47 of Regulation (EU) 2018\/848.<\/p>\n<p>**:** This regulation directly impacts the certification landscape for organic imports from Ukraine. Specifically, the updated entries for *bio.inspecta AG* and *Organizacion Internacional Agropecuaria S.A.* confirm their continued and specific authorization to carry out controls and issue organic certificates for products originating from Ukraine. Importers of Ukrainian organic produce should ensure their documentation aligns with these updated authorizations to maintain compliance with EU import standards.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/AUTO\/?uri=CELEX:32026R1386\"><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Regulation (EU) 2026\/1386 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 June 2026 on the screening of foreign investments in the Union and repealing Regulation (EU) 2019\/452<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p>This Regulation (EU) 2026\/1386 establishes a comprehensive, harmonized framework for the screening of foreign investments in the European Union on the grounds of security and public order. It replaces the previous Regulation (EU) 2019\/452, aiming to address modern geopolitical risks, supply chain vulnerabilities, and the weaponization of economic dependencies. The act mandates that all Member States implement national screening mechanisms and participate in a robust cooperation mechanism to exchange information on sensitive transactions. ****: This regulation has significant implications for Ukraine and Ukrainian entities, as it covers investments in critical sectors\u2014including energy, transport, and dual-use technologies\u2014that are vital to the resilience and reconstruction of the Ukrainian economy and its integration into the EU internal market.<\/p>\n<p>### Structure and Main Provisions<br \/>\nThe Regulation is structured into five chapters and four annexes:<br \/>\n*   **Chapter 1 (General Provisions):** Defines the scope, including &#8220;foreign investments&#8221; (which now explicitly includes intra-Union investments controlled by foreign entities) and sets out the objective of protecting security and public order.<br \/>\n*   **Chapter 2 (National Screening Mechanisms):** Mandates that all Member States establish screening mechanisms with harmonized minimum requirements, including a &#8220;prior authorization&#8221; requirement for specific sensitive sectors.<br \/>\n*   **Chapter 3 (Cooperation Mechanism):** Details the procedural framework for notifying other Member States and the Commission of sensitive investments, including timelines for comments and opinions.<br \/>\n*   **Chapter 4 (Risk Assessment):** Provides a standardized set of criteria for determining whether an investment poses a risk to security or public order.<br \/>\n*   **Chapter 5 (Final\/Transitional Provisions):** Outlines reporting obligations, evaluation timelines, and the repeal of the 2019 regulation.<\/p>\n<p>**Key changes compared to the 2019 version:**<br \/>\n1.  **Mandatory Screening:** Unlike the previous framework, which left the establishment of screening mechanisms to the discretion of Member States, this Regulation mandates that all Member States must have a screening mechanism in place.<br \/>\n2.  **Expanded Scope:** It now explicitly covers &#8220;intra-Union investments&#8221; (investments made by a foreign-controlled subsidiary already established in the EU) to prevent circumvention.<br \/>\n3.  **Harmonized Procedures:** It introduces stricter, harmonized timelines (e.g., a 45-day initial review period) and standardized notification forms to reduce compliance costs and legal uncertainty.<\/p>\n<p>### Important Provisions for Practical Use<br \/>\nFor legal practitioners and stakeholders, the following provisions are critical:<\/p>\n<p>*   **Common Minimum Scope (Article 4(15)):** Member States are now required to screen investments in specific sensitive areas, including dual-use items, semiconductors, quantum technologies, artificial intelligence, critical infrastructure (transport, energy, digital), strategic raw materials, and systemically important financial entities.<br \/>\n*   **Prior Authorization Requirement:** For the sectors listed above, Member States must ensure that the investment is screened *before* completion. This is a significant shift toward a &#8220;preventative&#8221; rather than &#8220;reactive&#8221; approach.<br \/>\n*   **Cooperation Mechanism (Articles 5\u201313):** The Regulation creates a formal, secure system for Member States and the Commission to share information. If a Member State receives comments from others or an opinion from the Commission, it is legally required to give these &#8220;due consideration&#8221; and provide a summary of its reasoning if it chooses to disagree.<br \/>\n*   **Information Gathering (Article 16):** The Regulation empowers the Commission and host Member States to request assistance from other Member States to gather information from entities within their territory, facilitating a more effective cross-border investigation process.<br \/>\n*   **Risk Assessment Criteria (Article 19):** This article provides the definitive list of factors to be considered when assessing risk, including the potential impact on projects of Union interest (listed in Annex II), critical medicines (Annex IV), and the risk of a foreign investor acting as a conduit for a third-country government.<\/p>\n<p>This Regulation enters into force on the twentieth day following its publication, with most provisions applying from **17 January 2028**.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/AUTO\/?uri=CELEX:32026R1392\"><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Regulation (EU) 2026\/1392 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2026 on the production and marketing of forest reproductive material, amending Regulations (EU) 2016\/2031 and (EU) 2017\/625 of the European Parliament and of the Council and repealing Council Directive 1999\/105\/EC (FRM Regulation) (Text with EEA relevance)<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p>This Regulation (EU) 2026\/1392, known as the **FRM Regulation**, establishes a comprehensive legal framework for the production and marketing of forest reproductive material (FRM) within the European Union. It replaces the outdated Directive 1999\/105\/EC to align forest management with the European Green Deal, climate neutrality goals, and the need for resilient, climate-adapted forests. The act mandates strict traceability, quality certification, and registration of basic material to ensure that foresters receive reliable genetic information for reforestation and afforestation. ****: Given the ongoing climate-driven shifts in vegetation zones and the necessity for forest restoration, this Regulation has significant implications for Ukraine, particularly regarding the cross-border transfer of genetic resources, the alignment of certification standards, and the potential for future cooperation on forest resilience and climate adaptation.<\/p>\n<p>### Structure and Main Provisions<br \/>\nThe Regulation is structured into eleven chapters and eight annexes, shifting from a Directive to a Regulation to ensure uniform application across all Member States.<\/p>\n<p>*   **Scope and Objectives:** It applies to specific tree species and their hybrids (listed in Annex I), focusing on multifunctional forestry, wood production, and the conservation of forest genetic resources. It explicitly excludes agroforestry.<br \/>\n*   **Categories of FRM:** It maintains and refines four categories of FRM: *source-identified, selected, qualified,* and *tested*. Each category requires specific levels of assessment and approval of the &#8220;basic material&#8221; (the source trees).<br \/>\n*   **Registration and Traceability:** Member States must maintain electronic national registers of approved basic material, which are then compiled into a central Union list. Professional operators are required to ensure full traceability through lot codes and master certificates.<br \/>\n*   **Official Controls:** The act integrates FRM controls into the broader EU framework for official controls (Regulation (EU) 2017\/625), ensuring consistent enforcement, transparency, and the use of digital tools like IMSOC.<br \/>\n*   **Changes from Previous Rules:** The new act introduces mandatory digital recording, stricter requirements for sustainability and climate adaptation, and a formal process for &#8220;contingency plans&#8221; to address potential shortages of FRM following natural disasters or climate events.<\/p>\n<p>### Key Provisions for Practical Use<br \/>\nFor those involved in the forestry sector, the following provisions are critical:<\/p>\n<p>1.  **Approval of Basic Material (Article 4):** All FRM must derive from basic material (seed sources, stands, orchards, etc.) approved by competent authorities. Approval is based on sustainability characteristics, including tolerance to pests and suitability for projected climatic conditions.<br \/>\n2.  **Marketing Requirements (Article 5):** Marketing is strictly conditional upon the presence of an official label and a professional operator\u2019s document. These documents must provide detailed information on the origin, category, and suitability of the material.<br \/>\n3.  **Professional Operator Obligations (Article 10):** Operators must be registered and are responsible for maintaining records for at least 10 years. They are also required to provide potential users with information on the FRM\u2019s suitability for specific climatic and ecological conditions.<br \/>\n4.  **Contingency Planning (Article 9):** Member States are empowered to create contingency plans to manage FRM supply during crises (e.g., wildfires or pest outbreaks). This allows for temporary, less stringent requirements under strictly defined conditions to prevent market disruption.<br \/>\n5.  **Imports (Article 26):** FRM from third countries can only be imported if it meets requirements equivalent to EU standards. This ensures that imported material does not compromise the genetic integrity or climate resilience of EU forests.<br \/>\n6.  **Digitalization:** The Regulation mandates a shift toward electronic master certificates and labels, and the establishment of a centralized platform (FOREMATIS) to increase transparency and facilitate the movement of FRM across borders.<\/p>\n<p>This Regulation will apply from **17 July 2031**, providing a transition period for the industry to adapt to these higher standards and digital requirements.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/AUTO\/?uri=CELEX:32026R1383\"><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Commission Regulation (EU) 2026\/1383 of 22\u00a0June 2026 amending Council Regulation (EC) No\u00a0338\/97 to reflect amendments to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) adopted at the 20th meeting of the Conference of the Parties and other amendments agreed by the Scientific Review Group<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Commission Regulation (EU) 2026\/1383 is a technical but critical legal instrument that updates the European Union\u2019s implementation of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Its primary purpose is to incorporate the latest international decisions\u2014specifically those from the 20th Conference of the Parties (CoP20) held in Samarkand\u2014into the EU\u2019s internal legal framework. By amending the Annexes of Council Regulation (EC) No 338\/97, it ensures that the EU\u2019s trade restrictions for endangered species remain aligned with global conservation standards. This regulation effectively dictates which animal and plant species are subject to strict trade controls, monitoring, or outright bans within the EU market.<\/p>\n<p>**Structure and Main Provisions**<br \/>\nThe regulation is structured as an amending act that replaces the entire Annex to Regulation (EC) No 338\/97. This approach is used to ensure legal clarity, as the sheer volume of changes\u2014ranging from species reclassifications to updated nomenclatural references\u2014would otherwise be difficult to track. <\/p>\n<p>Key changes include:<br \/>\n*   **Upgrading\/Downgrading Protection:** Several species have been moved between Annexes A, B, and C to reflect their current conservation status under CITES Appendices. For instance, species like *Okapia johnstoni* (Okapi) have been moved to Annex A, requiring the highest level of protection.<br \/>\n*   **Nomenclatural Updates:** The regulation updates scientific names and taxonomic classifications to ensure consistency with modern biological standards, which is vital for customs enforcement.<br \/>\n*   **Annotation Adjustments:** It refines the &#8220;annotations&#8221; (the specific conditions or exemptions under which trade is permitted, such as for musical instruments or specific parts of plants), ensuring they are legally precise.<br \/>\n*   **Delayed Implementation:** For certain species, the regulation provides for deferred application dates, allowing Member States and traders time to adjust to new restrictions.<\/p>\n<p>**Most Important Provisions for Practical Use**<br \/>\nFor those involved in trade, customs, or environmental compliance, the following elements are the most significant:<\/p>\n<p>1.  **The Annexes (A, B, C, and D):** These lists are the &#8220;operating manual&#8221; for trade. Annex A contains species threatened with extinction (trade is generally prohibited for commercial purposes), while Annexes B and C contain species where trade is strictly regulated. Annex D serves as a monitoring tool for imports into the EU.<br \/>\n2.  **Interpretation Notes (Point 12 &amp; 13):** These sections define exactly what constitutes a &#8220;part or derivative&#8221; of a species. The inclusion of specific Harmonized System (HS) code definitions for items like &#8220;finished musical instruments&#8221; or &#8220;transformed wood&#8221; is crucial for customs brokers to determine whether a shipment requires a CITES permit.<br \/>\n3.  **Exemptions:** The regulation clarifies specific exemptions, such as those for artificially propagated plants or certain hybrids, which are essential for commercial nurseries and the horticultural trade.<br \/>\n4.  **Enforcement:** The regulation is directly applicable in all Member States, meaning it creates immediate, binding legal obligations for national authorities and private entities alike.<\/p>\n<p>**:** This regulation has direct implications for Ukraine and Ukrainians, particularly regarding the trade of species native to the region or those passing through transit routes. Notably, the Annexes include specific listings for species found in Ukraine (e.g., *Alauda arvensis*, *Emberiza citrinella*, and various *Carduelis* species listed in Annex C), meaning that any cross-border movement of these specimens into the EU must comply with the strict documentation and permit requirements set out in this regulation.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/AUTO\/?uri=CELEX:32026R1388\"><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Regulation (EU) 2026\/1388 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 June 2026 on plants obtained by certain new genomic techniques and their products, and amending Regulation (EU) 2017\/625 (Text with EEA relevance)<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p>This Regulation (EU) 2026\/1388 establishes a new, specialized legal framework for plants obtained through specific &#8220;New Genomic Techniques&#8221; (NGTs), such as targeted mutagenesis and cisgenesis. It aims to modernize the EU\u2019s approach to biotechnology by distinguishing between plants that could occur naturally or through conventional breeding and those with more complex modifications. By creating a tiered regulatory system, the act seeks to foster innovation, support the European Green Deal\u2019s sustainability goals, and ensure a high level of safety for human health and the environment. ****: This regulation has direct implications for agricultural trade, food security, and the competitiveness of the agri-food sector in Ukraine, which is a major partner of the EU in these areas.<\/p>\n<p>### Structure and Main Provisions<br \/>\nThe Regulation functions as *lex specialis* (specialized law) to the existing EU GMO legislation. Its structure is divided into four main chapters:<\/p>\n<p>1.  **General Provisions:** Defines the scope and key terminology, distinguishing between NGT plants and traditional GMOs.<br \/>\n2.  **Category 1 NGT Plants:** These are plants deemed equivalent to those produced by conventional breeding. They are exempt from the strict authorization and labeling requirements of the 2001 GMO Directive, provided they meet specific scientific criteria (Annex I) and do not possess excluded traits (Annex II, such as herbicide tolerance).<br \/>\n3.  **Category 2 NGT Plants:** These plants remain subject to the existing, albeit adapted, EU GMO legislation. They require a risk assessment and authorization, though the Regulation provides for more flexible data requirements and potential incentives for sustainable traits.<br \/>\n4.  **Final Provisions:** Covers transparency, intellectual property (IP) considerations, monitoring, and the establishment of expert groups.<\/p>\n<p>Compared to previous versions of EU GMO law, this act introduces a **verification procedure** to determine the &#8220;category&#8221; of a plant before it enters the market, replacing the &#8220;one-size-fits-all&#8221; authorization process with a risk-proportionate approach.<\/p>\n<p>### Key Provisions for Practical Use<br \/>\n*   **Equivalence Criteria (Annex I):** This is the most critical technical component. It sets specific limits on the number and type of genetic modifications (e.g., max 20 modifications per monoploid genome) that allow a plant to be classified as &#8220;Category 1.&#8221;<br \/>\n*   **Exclusion of Certain Traits (Annex II):** Even if a plant is scientifically equivalent to a conventional one, it cannot be &#8220;Category 1&#8221; if it is engineered for herbicide tolerance or the production of insecticidal substances. These must follow the stricter &#8220;Category 2&#8221; path.<br \/>\n*   **Transparency and Labeling:** Category 1 NGT plant reproductive material must be labeled as &#8220;NGT-1&#8221; and listed in a public database. This ensures traceability for organic producers and consumers who wish to avoid NGT products.<br \/>\n*   **Incentives for Sustainability:** Developers of Category 2 NGT plants that offer sustainability benefits (e.g., climate resilience, improved nutrient efficiency) can benefit from accelerated risk assessment procedures and fee waivers for SMEs.<br \/>\n*   **Intellectual Property (IP) and Code of Conduct:** The Regulation mandates the creation of a code of conduct to ensure fair access to patented biological material for breeders and farmers, addressing concerns about market concentration and the ability of smaller entities to innovate.<br \/>\n*   **Monitoring and Evaluation:** The Commission is required to report on the implementation of the Regulation between three and seven years after the first products reach the market, ensuring the framework remains aligned with scientific progress.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/AUTO\/?uri=CELEX:22026X01431\"><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Information concerning the entry into force of the Agreement on the interpretation and application of the Energy Charter Treaty<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p>This notice serves as the official confirmation of the entry into force of the Agreement on the interpretation and application of the Energy Charter Treaty (ECT). It establishes that the legal framework agreed upon by the parties on 18 February 2026 became fully operational on 25 June 2026. This act provides the necessary legal certainty for stakeholders regarding the date from which the specific interpretive provisions of the Agreement take effect.<\/p>\n<p>**Structure and Main Provisions**<br \/>\nThe act is a formal notification published in the Official Journal of the European Union, functioning as a procedural instrument to trigger the application of the underlying international agreement. Its structure is concise, identifying the specific international instrument (the Agreement on the interpretation and application of the ECT), the date of its signing, and the specific legal basis for its entry into force (Article 6(1) of the Agreement). Compared to previous status quo, this act marks the transition from a signed agreement to a binding, active legal instrument within the EU\u2019s energy regulatory framework.<\/p>\n<p>**Key Provisions for Practical Application**<br \/>\nThe most critical aspect of this notice is the definitive establishment of 25 June 2026 as the &#8220;effective date&#8221; for the application of the interpretive rules contained in the Agreement. For legal practitioners, energy companies, and arbitral tribunals, this date is the benchmark for determining the applicability of the new interpretive standards to ongoing or future disputes under the Energy Charter Treaty. It clarifies that the specific clarifications regarding the interpretation of the ECT are now legally binding, thereby limiting the scope for divergent interpretations of the treaty\u2019s provisions in investment arbitration or regulatory compliance matters.<\/p>\n<p>: This act is highly relevant to Ukraine, as the Energy Charter Treaty remains a central pillar of international energy investment protection. The entry into force of this interpretive agreement directly impacts the legal landscape for energy infrastructure and investments within Ukraine, particularly concerning the rights and obligations of investors and the state under the ECT framework.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/eur-lex.europa.eu\/legal-content\/AUTO\/?uri=CELEX:22026D1370\"><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Decision No\u00a01\/2026 of the Joint Committee of 2\u00a0June 2026 on the amendments to Part A of Annex\u00a0I and to Annex\u00a0II to the Agreement between the European Union and Iceland on the protection of geographical indication for agricultural products and foodstuffs [2026\/1370]<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Decision No 1\/2026 of the Joint Committee represents a formal update to the bilateral agreement between the European Union and Iceland regarding the mutual protection of geographical indications (GIs) for agricultural products and foodstuffs. Its primary purpose is to synchronize the legal frameworks of both parties and refresh the comprehensive list of protected product names. By updating these annexes, the decision ensures that specific regional products from the EU and Iceland receive continued legal protection against imitation or misuse in each other&#8217;s territories.<\/p>\n<p>### Structure and Main Provisions<br \/>\nThe act is structured as a formal decision adopted by the Joint Committee established under the 2017 Agreement. It consists of two operative articles and a detailed Annex:<br \/>\n*   **Article 1:** Mandates the replacement of Part A of Annex I (applicable legislation) and the entirety of Annex II (the list of protected geographical indications) with the updated versions provided in the decision.<br \/>\n*   **Article 2:** Establishes the immediate entry into force of the decision upon its adoption on 2 June 2026.<br \/>\n*   **Annex:** Contains the updated legal references and the exhaustive, country-by-country list of protected products.<\/p>\n<p>Compared to previous versions, the most significant change is the alignment with the new EU regulatory framework. Specifically, the legislation reference has been updated to **Regulation (EU) 2024\/1143**, which is the current governing law for geographical indications for wine, spirit drinks, and agricultural products in the Union.<\/p>\n<p>### Key Provisions for Practical Use<br \/>\nFor legal practitioners and trade officials, the following aspects are the most critical:<\/p>\n<p>1.  **Legislative Update:** The decision formally recognizes Regulation (EU) 2024\/1143 as the governing EU law. This is essential for determining the scope of protection and the procedural requirements for any future registrations or modifications.<br \/>\n2.  **Comprehensive GI Register:** Annex II serves as the definitive legal reference for which products are currently protected. It includes a wide array of products\u2014ranging from cheeses and meats to oils and bakery items\u2014categorized by their country of origin (e.g., &#8220;Feta&#8221; from Greece, &#8220;Prosciutto di Parma&#8221; from Italy, or &#8220;\u00cdslenskt lambakj\u00f6t&#8221; from Iceland).<br \/>\n3.  **Maintenance of the List:** The decision reflects the outcome of the Joint Committee\u2019s review, which involved adding newly registered GIs and removing names that are no longer protected in the respective territories. This ensures that the register remains accurate and legally enforceable, preventing the protection of &#8220;zombie&#8221; or expired designations.<\/p>\n<p>This act is a routine but vital administrative instrument that maintains the integrity of the intellectual property protections for regional food heritage between the EU and Iceland.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Below is the requested review of the provided EU legal acts: Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2026\/1418 This regulation formally registers the Slovakian product &#8220;Brhlovsk\u00e9 podlievan\u00e9 buchty&#8221; as a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI). The act mandates that only products originating from the Brhlovce region and strictly adhering to the established product specification may be marketed under&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_bbp_topic_count":0,"_bbp_reply_count":0,"_bbp_total_topic_count":0,"_bbp_total_reply_count":0,"_bbp_voice_count":0,"_bbp_anonymous_reply_count":0,"_bbp_topic_count_hidden":0,"_bbp_reply_count_hidden":0,"_bbp_forum_subforum_count":0,"pmpro_default_level":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[14],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-17888","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-eu-legislation-detailed","pmpro-has-access"],"acf":{"patreon-level":0},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lexcovery.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17888","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lexcovery.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lexcovery.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lexcovery.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lexcovery.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=17888"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/lexcovery.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17888\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lexcovery.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=17888"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lexcovery.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=17888"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lexcovery.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=17888"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}