The European Union recognises the principle of free movement of goods. This also applies to plant protection products. However, these products, due to their risks for humans, animals and the environment, are subject to special legislation: the Regulation on Plant Protection Products. The advantage is that applicants and authorisation holders can enter the European market with less administrative burden. For citizens, professional users and the agricultural sector, the advantage is that the same set of products is available everywhere under equal terms and this also promotes fair competition. Given these societal advantages, harmonisation is an important principle.
