Seeds: common organisation of the market (CMO) (repeal. Regulations (EEC) Nos 2358/71 and 1674/72)

PURPOSE: to repeal and modify Regulation 2358/71/EEC following the reform in the seeds sector established by Regulation 1782/2003/EC.

PROPOSED ACT: Council Regulation

CONTENT: Council Regulation 2358/71/EEC on the common organisation of the market in seeds and the CN codes of products falling within the scope of that common market organisation have undergone a number of substantial amendments. In view of those amendments and, in particular, those introduced under Council Regulation 1782/2003/EC establishing common rules for direct support schemes under the common agricultural policy and establishing certain support schemes for farmers, that Regulation should be repealed and replaced by a new Regulation in the interests of clarity and a proper understanding of Community legislation.

The provisions of Council Regulation 1674/72/EEC laying down general rules for granting and financing aid for seed were incorporated into the implementing rules provided for in Chapter 10 of Commission Regulation 1973/2004/EC. Council Regulation 1674/72/EEC should therefore be repealed.

The import licence scheme has been made uniform for all seed imports and, at the same time, has been streamlined in that there are no longer exemptions for duly registered growing contracts in third countries.

The provisions on the granting of national aid by Finland on account of its specific climatic conditions have been retained and the Commission will transmit a report to the Council on the results of this aid by 1 January 2006.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS :

Budget heading: 05 02 11 02 Appropriations: EUR 110 million