Go to content

When is a delivery and run-down period (grace period) granted?

If changes with respect to a previous authorisation occur, for example if a scope of permitted use lapses, the formulation is changed, specific restriction sentences are prescribed or an authorisation is withdrawn before the expiration date, then a delivery and run-down period (grace period) can be granted in accordance with Article 41.5 and Article 68.5 Wgb. If desired, the applicant can submit a proposal for a delivery and run-down period; the Ctgb then decides whether such a period will be granted. No delivery and run-down period will be granted if public health and the safety of the operator are endangered.
 

The delivery and run-down period is determined on an individual product basis according to the standard basic assumptions:

  1. the grace period shall be proportionate to the reasons for the withdrawal or change;
  2. preferably, the grace period should not expire during a growing season or the season when the product is generally used;
  3. the length of the period depends partly on the extent to which the change or withdrawal was not expected by the market and/or the users and on the possibilities of the market or users to deal with the consequences of a sudden withdrawal or change;
  4. the risks for humans, animals and the environment, including the risks of continued use of the plant protection product or biocidal product and the damage that results from the destruction of stocks of the product;
  5. the economic interests.

The aim of the grace period is to allow manufacturers, suppliers and users to become accustomed to no longer being able to use a product according to the old legal instructions for use (WG/GA) and sufficient time to use up stocks with the old labels. However, the authorisation holder is expected to use labels with the new WG/GA during the first subsequent product run.