The European Commission has initiated an infringement procedure against Romania for the repeated authorization of neonicotinoid pesticides, banned since 2018.

The European Commission accuses Romania of violating regulations regarding plant protection products, granting 12 temporary authorizations for banned pesticides, such as imidacloprid and thiamethoxam, in 2023 and 2024. These substances, known for their harmful effects on pollinators, including bees, were banned in 2018. Although emergency authorizations are allowed in cases of serious danger, a ruling by the EU Court of Justice clarified that the use of these pesticides outdoors is excluded. Romania now has two months to respond to the Commission and address the reported issues.