The European Commission decided on Tuesday 29 January that the US soya production certification scheme is compatible with EU sustainability standards (see EUROPE 12075).
This will allow US soya beans to be used in biofuels in the EU. The Commission has formally recognised the US certification system until 1 July 2021. This decision brings to life the joint declaration of July 2018 between Presidents Jean-Claude Juncker and Donald Trump (see EUROPE 12071).
The United States is Europe's main supplier of soya beans and the decision will allow it to further expand its market in Europe.
In the EU, biofuels must meet a set of sustainability criteria (Renewable Energy Directive).
The Commission's recognition may be extended beyond 2021 if the US system complies with the requirements set out in the new revised Renewable Energy Directive adopted last year (covering the period 2021-2030). The US authorities are required to notify the Commission of any changes they intend to introduce in the certification procedures and the Commission may revoke its decision if the system is not properly implemented.
EU imports of soya beans from the United States increased by 112% in the last season (July-December 2018). (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)