The European Commission has formally communicated its support for the Council's position on a new regulation governing the production and marketing of forest reproductive material (FRM), aiming to enhance sustainability and genetic diversity to bolster climate change adaptation and forest ecosystem resilience. The communication, published on 23 April 2026 by DG SANTE, marks a key step toward replacing the current 1999 directive with a modernised framework.
The proposed regulation introduces updated measures aligned with technological advancements and other EU legislation, including provisions for Member States to develop contingency plans for FRM supply following natural disasters. The Council's position, agreed in December 2025, includes compromises on official controls, approval of genetic resources for conservation, marketing requirements concerning quality pests, and contingency plans. The regulation's application date is set at five years after adoption.
Policy orientations and trade-offs The regulation strikes a balance between increasing regulatory oversight to ensure genetic diversity and climate resilience, and providing flexibility for Member States through contingency planning. It updates rules to reflect technological progress in FRM production, potentially increasing compliance costs for producers but aiming to improve long-term forest health. The compromise on official controls and marketing requirements reflects a tension between standardisation and national discretion.
Impact on stakeholders - EU forest reproductive material producers: Will face updated compliance requirements, including new marketing rules and official controls, potentially increasing operational costs but also opening opportunities for climate-adapted varieties. - National authorities: Must develop contingency plans for FRM supply after natural disasters, requiring administrative resources but enhancing preparedness. - Forest owners and managers: Benefit from improved access to diverse, resilient FRM, aiding adaptation to climate change, though may face higher prices initially. - Environmental NGOs: Likely welcome the emphasis on genetic diversity and ecosystem resilience, though may seek stronger enforcement mechanisms.
Expected institutional follow-up The European Parliament is now expected to consider the Council's position. If approved, the regulation will be formally adopted, repealing Directive 1999/105/EC. The five-year transition period will allow stakeholders to adapt to the new rules.
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