- February 11, 2026
- Posted by: admin
- Categories: Capacity Building, Compliance & Standards, General Information
Kenya horticulture exporters shipping fresh produce and agri-food commodities to France are advised to take note of newly introduced national maximum residue level (MRL) controls targeting specific pesticide residues. The French Government has implemented emergency regulatory measures affecting four active substances: carbendazim, thiophanate-methyl, glufosinate, and mancozeb.
Through an official Order, France has suspended the importation, sale, and market placement of certain food products originating from non-EU countries where residues of the listed substances are detected. The regulation took effect on 8 February 2026 and applies to both raw and processed food products entering the French market.
The substances concerned are not approved for use within the European Union. France invoked national emergency safeguard provisions applicable where a Member State identifies a serious risk to human health. The measure has been notified to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and discussed at EU level, with Member States allowing France to maintain the national restriction rather than implementing an EU-wide ban at this time.
A wide range of horticultural and agricultural commodities relevant to Kenyan exports may be impacted, including:
Avocados, mangoes, and papayas
Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruit
Grapes and berries
Tomatoes, beans, peas, peppers, and okra
Under the Order, MRLs for the specified active substances will effectively be enforced at the Limit of Quantification (LOQ) — meaning any detectable residue could trigger non-compliance for consignments destined for France.
While the measure applies specifically to France and does not automatically extend across all EU Member States, it signals tightening regulatory scrutiny on pesticide residues. The development may also influence ongoing EU reviews on the possible lowering of MRL thresholds for certain crop protection substances.
Implications for Kenya Horticulture Exporters
Exporters supplying the French market should review pesticide application regimes and residue monitoring frameworks.
Pre-export compliance testing will be critical to avoid border rejections.
Engagement with agronomists, agro-input suppliers, and certification bodies is advised to align crop protection programmes with evolving EU market requirements.
