Switzerland to Recognise EU-Approved Pesticide Substances Under New Agricultural Law

This legislative update modifies the 1998 Federal Agriculture Act (LAgr) and introduces Articles 160a–160e, formalising a simplified approval mechanism for phytosanitary products already authorised in EU member states bordering Switzerland, as well as in the Netherlands and Belgium.

Key Provisions and Procedures

The new Article 160a stipulates that all active substances, safeners, and synergists authorised under EU Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 are automatically considered approved in Switzerland. This removes the need for duplicate risk assessments, accelerating product entry into the Swiss market.

Article 160b allows plant protection products approved in specific EU member states to be granted Swiss authorisation via a simplified procedure, provided their composition and intended use comply with Swiss safety standards for human health, animals, and the environment.

The process is time-bound: Article 160c establishes a maximum duration of twelve months for the simplified authorisation procedure, starting from the date a complete application is submitted.

Safeguards and National Discretion

While the reform facilitates harmonisation with the EU, Switzerland retains regulatory discretion. The Federal Council may withhold approval for EU-authorised substances if deemed necessary to protect public health or the environment. Similarly, substances not approved in the EU may still be authorised in Switzerland under specific conditions.

In addition, emergency approvals granted in EU countries will now automatically apply in Switzerland, and companies must notify Swiss authorities of any changes or withdrawals to their EU authorisations within 30 days.

Implications for Industry and Stakeholders

This policy shift offers significant administrative relief for manufacturers and importers, especially those distributing across multiple European markets. It also enhances consistency between Swiss and EU regulatory frameworks, reducing compliance friction for agri-chemical businesses, food producers, and farmers.

However, companies must remain vigilant: any divergence in Swiss safety requirements may still trigger separate risk evaluations. Moreover, approval does not automatically transfer if substances are withdrawn from the EU market.