EU Regulation 2026/742: New MRLs for Cyflufenamid, Fenazaquin, and Nicotine

Key Information

On March 30, 2026, Commission Regulation (EU) 2026/742 amends Annexes II and III of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 concerning the maximum residue levels (MRLs) for cyflufenamid, fenazaquin, and nicotine on certain agricultural products. This decision is immediately applicable in all Member States of the European Union.

Key Points

• Changes to the MRLs for three substances: cyflufenamid, fenazaquin, and nicotine, effective March 31, 2026
• Legal basis: Regulation (EU) 2026/742 of March 30, 2026, amending Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 (Annexes II and III)
• Operational impact: increased controls on imported consignments, enhanced analysis of supporting documents, product database updates, and classification review for declarants

Background and Implications

Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 establishes the framework for maximum residue levels (MRLs) for pesticides in or on food and feed of plant and animal origin. The update of Annexes II and III aims to align the MRLs with new scientific data concerning the presence of residues of cyflufenamid, fenazaquin, and nicotine. The amendment to these MRLs addresses the need to protect public health and ensure a high level of food safety for consumers within the European Union. Publication of this text in the OJ L of March 30, 2026, triggers its immediate application for practitioners.

Impact for the Profession

Customs declarants must check the compliance of all consignments covered by the relevant product codes (notably, fruit, vegetables, processed products). Importers and exporters are required to update their technical documentation and analysis certificates to ensure traceability in line with the revised MRLs. Freight forwarders must anticipate reinforced border controls, especially regarding origin, analytical compliance, and customs classification upon importation. Compliance teams should integrate the revised thresholds into their regulatory verification processes.

Next Steps

• Immediate application: March 31, 2026, the day after publication in the OJ L
• Update product specifications, customs databases, and internal procedures within 7 days for the sector
• Possible controls on outstanding files and ongoing shipments as early as April 2026
• Ensure that, at importation, analysis certificates presented for relevant consignments comply with the new MRLs

Le 31 mars 2026, les LMR sont modifiées pour trois substances actives par le Règlement (UE) 2026/742.
(On March 31, 2026, the MRLs for three active substances are modified by Regulation (EU) 2026/742.)

Source: OJ L – Regulation (EU) 2026/742, EUR-Lex