European fruit and vegetable producer organisations have expressed concern over the European Commission's proposed revision of the EU–Morocco Association Agreement and a new delegated act on origin labelling. Copa and Cogeca, ArefLH, and Eucofel outlined their position in a joint letter to the European Parliament, arguing that the proposal could undermine European producers and conflict with existing EU legal principles.
The organisations stated that the revision would extend preferential tariffs to products originating from Western Sahara. They noted that the proposal would also allow origin labels to use regional names rather than explicitly stating "Western Sahara," despite previous Court of Justice rulings requiring clear identification. According to the organisations, this raises concerns about consumer transparency and compliance with EU jurisprudence.
Producer organisations argue that the revision exposes European growers to competition from Western Saharan production that operates under different social and environmental conditions. They warn that the amendment comes at a time when EU producers are already under pressure from rising import volumes and market competition. They said the proposed changes risk further displacing European production and increasing financial strain on producers across the Union.
Concerns were also raised about the potential loss of consumer trust due to what they describe as origin-masking labels. According to the letter, the proposed system could weaken confidence in existing EU labelling rules.
The organisations also highlighted the proposed transfer of responsibility to Moroccan authorities for issuing conformity certificates. They argue that this could reduce EU oversight and introduce uncertainty about compliance with European standards.
They further stated that, despite repeated requests for reciprocity, mirror clauses, and safeguard mechanisms, the current revision does not address these issues. According to the groups, this leaves EU growers exposed to market instability and unequal competitive conditions.
Producer organisations are asking Members of the European Parliament to support an objection to the delegated act on origin labelling for fruit and vegetables from Western Sahara, scheduled for a vote in the Plenary. They are calling for a full renegotiation of the agreement that incorporates measures to protect EU growers and ensure adherence to EU and international law.
"European producers cannot be asked to compete in a system that hides origins, weakens standards, and disregards the Court's rulings," the organisations stated in their letter.
For more information:
© AREFLHPauline Panegos
AREFLH
[email protected]
© Copa and CogecaDominique Dejonckheere
Copa and Cogeca
[email protected]
Beatriz Aguado
Eucofel
[email protected]
