On 4 December, the Council and Parliament reached a trilogue agreement on a legal framework for new genomic techniques (NGTs).

On 4 December, the Council and Parliament reached a trilogue agreement on a legal framework for new genomic techniques (NGTs). The agreement follows months of negotiation. The draft agreement must now be formally endorsed by both Council and Parliament before being published in the Official Journal.

EUDR trilogue agreement

A trilogue agreement on the EUDR, has confirmed a one-year delay with an application date of 30 December 2026, with six extra months for micro and small operators. A simplification review by 30 April 2026 is required. The agreement awaits institutional endorsement.

African Swine Fever found in wild boar, Catalonia, Spain

At least three wild boar have tested positive for African Swine Fever (ASF) near Barcelona, Catalonia. While the exact source of infection is unknown, it is thought to have been from infected meat brought into the region. Nearly one third of Spain's pork export certificates have been blocked, with Great Britain recognising regionalisation this week. Spain is the world's second biggest pork exporter after the USA.

Commission advises Irish nitrates derogation extension

The European Commission is set to propose extending Ireland's nitrates derogation, allowing 7,000 farms to maintain higher stocking rates. Approval by the EU Nitrates Committee is expected on 9 December, with strict conditions requiring Ireland to prove no harm to protected water bodies. IFA president Francie Gorman welcomed progress but cautioned that the details will determine feasibility.

Commission publishes bioeconomy strategy

The EU Commission has adopted a ‘strategic framework for a competitive and sustainable bioeconomy’, focusing on innovation, bio-based markets, sustainable biomass supply, and global opportunities. Goals include boosting competitiveness, promoting circular resource use, ensuring sustainable biomass supply, and strengthening the EU's position in international bioeconomy markets.

Leaked food and feed simplification

The leaked EU Food and Feed Simplification proposal, which the BAB team has had sight of, is set for publication in December 2025. The targeted set of measures aim to simplify nine EU regulations. Amongst the draft changes are a streamlining of Plant Protection Product and feed additive authorisations, as well as simplify rules on Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy.

EU-US trade relations

The European Council approved a tariff reduction plan for US industrial, seafood, and agricultural products, linked to the US lowering car tariffs from 25% to 15%. A safeguard mechanism was added to prevent import surges. The European Parliament will vote on 26 January before trilogue talks can start.

COP30: From vision to action

And lastly, BAB Senior Advisor, Jenny Brunton, once again represented UK farmers at this year’s annual climate conference, COP30 in Belem, Brazil. Jenny championed agriculture at COP, working with the World Farmers’ Organisation and other members of the UNFCCC Farmers’ Constituency to influence the negotiations.