The growing opportunity for bio-based fertilisers in the EU
Regulation (EU) 2019/1009 unlocks new commercial opportunities for fertilisers previously excluded from the single market. Here, we look at what manufacturers of bio-based fertilising products can do to maximize the opportunity of the changes.
The new fertiliser regulation: what’s changing
Manufacturers of innovative bio-based fertilising products are set to benefit from new EU legislation. On 16 July 2022, Regulation (EU) 2019/1009 laying down rules on the making available on the market of EU fertilising products came into effect, providing clarity where previously these products sat in a regulatory no man’s land.
Existing EU fertiliser regulation was geared towards products composed of mined or chemically produced inorganic materials. Fertilising products such as organic fertilisers weren’t covered. So, while they could be marketed as ‘national fertilisers’ in individual EU countries, they didn’t enjoy free access to the single market.
The new rules mean this has now changed. Regulation (EU) 2019/1009 harmonises the regulatory framework for quality and safety standards, creating a level playing field for EU-wide trading of mineral and bio-based fertilisers. It also covers ‘fertilising products’ in the broadest sense. So, in addition to fertilisers which provide nutrients, it legislates for products such as soil improvers and growing media.
