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31 July 2025

FRANCE: Publication of Anses assessment on the use of copper in agriculture

Published by Léa Thuillier at 28 July 2025

On 16 July 2025, Anses released an expert report on the use of copper as a fungicide in agriculture, alongside an update on the evaluation of marketing authorisations (MA) for copper-based products in France.

Main uses maintained, stricter conditions applied

Following the review of 34 MA applications for copper-based products, Anses granted authorisations that broadly maintain the main uses (vineyards, orchards, vegetable crops, etc.) with reinforced conditions to protect the worker but also water bodies and soil. In addition, where necessary, additional data on potential risks to birds and mammals were requested.

As copper is classified as a candidate for substitution, its agricultural use may be restricted if safer alternatives with similar efficacy exist. Anses concluded that substitution was only feasible for tomato downy mildew under cover, regardless of the production system.

Socio-economic impact study and alternative assessment

This prospective assessment, published ahead of the next EU re-evaluation of copper as an active substance, includes a detailed analysis of the health, environmental, and socio-economic impacts of reducing or phasing out copper. The report highlights the current lack of widely applicable alternatives, particularly in organic farming, and the potential economic losses associated with various withdrawal scenarios.

To download:

Copper as a Fungicide in Agriculture: Health, Environmental and Socio-Economic Challenges

ANSES – Marketing Authorisation Committee – Minutes of the Meeting of 27–28 November 2024 (in French)

Socio-Economic Impacts of Limiting or Phasing Out Copper-Based Plant Protection Products in Agriculture – ANSES Opinion – Collective Expert Report (in French)

Mapping the Use of Copper-Based Plant Protection Products in France, Including Their Application in Organic and Conventional Farming (in French)

See also our previous articles:

FRANCE: report on the use of copper in France

FRANCE: Use of copper in agriculture

FRANCE: A road map about the reduction of use of copper in agriculture

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