Market analysis on import, quality and use in Germany of seeds treated in the European Union

Treated seeds imported from the EU can be sown in Germany, even if they were treated with plant protection products that are not authorized in Germany. This possible deficit in legislation, not preestimated during the negotiations for the EU regulation, results in a gap in the current environmental risk assessment and risk mitigation of seed treatments. This market study examines the reasons for import and use of treated seeds as well as the quantity and type of pesticides used. Potential risks to the environment not yet considered in the risk assessment which may arise specifically in Germany due to the use of imported treated seeds were evaluated. Proposals for possible solutions for risk assessment and risk mitigation of treated seeds on a regulatory level were developed.