# Official Journal C 466/2022

| | ISSN 1977-091X |
| --- | --- |
| Official Journal
  of the European Union | C 466 |
| | |
| English edition | Information and Notices | Volume 657 December 2022 |

ISSN 1977-091X

Official Journal

of the European Union

C 466

English edition

Information and Notices

Volume 657 December 2022

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| Contents | page |
| --- | --- |
| | I   Resolutions, recommendations and opinions |
| | RESOLUTIONS |
| | Council |
| 2022/C 466/01 | Council Resolution on the EU Work Plan for Culture 2023–2026 | 1 |

Contents

page

I   Resolutions, recommendations and opinions

RESOLUTIONS

Council

2022/C 466/01

Council Resolution on the EU Work Plan for Culture 2023–2026

1

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| | II   Information |
| --- | --- |
| | INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES |
| | European Commission |
| 2022/C 466/02 | Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.10895 – ATHORA / AXA CUSTOMER SOLUTIONS) (
  1
  ) | 19 |
| 2022/C 466/03 | Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.10942 – PHO P / STORA ENSO MAXAU) (
  1
  ) | 20 |

II   Information

INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

2022/C 466/02

Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.10895 – ATHORA / AXA CUSTOMER SOLUTIONS) (
  1
  )

1

19

2022/C 466/03

Non-opposition to a notified concentration (Case M.10942 – PHO P / STORA ENSO MAXAU) (
  1
  )

1

20

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| | IV   Notices |
| --- | --- |
| | NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES |
| | Council |
| 2022/C 466/04 | Joint statement of the European Parliament and the Council in relation to Regulation (EU) 2022/2379, as regards the importance of establishing in all Member States a register held by national competent authorities on the use of plant protection products in agriculture | 21 |
| | European Commission |
| 2022/C 466/05 | Euro exchange rates – 6 December 2022 | 22 |
| 2022/C 466/06 | Statement by the Commission in relation to Regulation (EU) 2022/2379 of the European Parliament and of the Council, as regards on-going work to ensure the availability in electronic format of the records to be kept by professional users of plant protection products pursuant to Article 67(1) of Regulation (EC) of the European Parliament and of the Council No 1107/2009 | 23 |
| 2022/C 466/07 | List of organisations recognised on the basis of Regulation (EC) No 391/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 April 2009 on common rules and standards for ship inspection and survey organisations | 24 |
| | European Data Protection Supervisor |
| 2022/C 466/08 | Summary of the Opinion of the European Data Protection Supervisor on the Proposal for a Council Regulation amending Regulation (EU) No 389/2012 as regards the exchange of information maintained in the electronic registers concerning economic operators who move excise goods between Member States for commercial purposes
  (The full text of this Opinion can be found in English, French and German on the EDPS website https://edps.europa.eu) | 25 |
| | NOTICES FROM MEMBER STATES |
| 2022/C 466/09 | Information communicated by Member States regarding closure of fisheries | 27 |

IV   Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

Council

2022/C 466/04

Joint statement of the European Parliament and the Council in relation to Regulation (EU) 2022/2379, as regards the importance of establishing in all Member States a register held by national competent authorities on the use of plant protection products in agriculture

21

European Commission

2022/C 466/05

Euro exchange rates – 6 December 2022

22

2022/C 466/06

Statement by the Commission in relation to Regulation (EU) 2022/2379 of the European Parliament and of the Council, as regards on-going work to ensure the availability in electronic format of the records to be kept by professional users of plant protection products pursuant to Article 67(1) of Regulation (EC) of the European Parliament and of the Council No 1107/2009

23

2022/C 466/07

List of organisations recognised on the basis of Regulation (EC) No 391/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 April 2009 on common rules and standards for ship inspection and survey organisations

24

European Data Protection Supervisor

2022/C 466/08

Summary of the Opinion of the European Data Protection Supervisor on the Proposal for a Council Regulation amending Regulation (EU) No 389/2012 as regards the exchange of information maintained in the electronic registers concerning economic operators who move excise goods between Member States for commercial purposes
  (The full text of this Opinion can be found in English, French and German on the EDPS website https://edps.europa.eu)

(The full text of this Opinion can be found in English, French and German on the EDPS website https://edps.europa.eu)

25

NOTICES FROM MEMBER STATES

2022/C 466/09

Information communicated by Member States regarding closure of fisheries

27

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| | V   Announcements |
| --- | --- |
| | PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY |
| | European Commission |
| 2022/C 466/10 | Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.10837 – ASTARA WESTERN EUROPE / MITSUBISHI CORPORATION / ISUZU MOTORS LIMITED / ISUZU SALES DEUTSCHLAND) – Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  ) | 28 |
| | OTHER ACTS |
| | European Commission |
| 2022/C 466/11 | Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to a product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 | 30 |
| 2022/C 466/12 | Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to a product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 | 37 |

V   Announcements

PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY

European Commission

2022/C 466/10

Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.10837 – ASTARA WESTERN EUROPE / MITSUBISHI CORPORATION / ISUZU MOTORS LIMITED / ISUZU SALES DEUTSCHLAND) – Candidate case for simplified procedure (
  1
  )

1

28

OTHER ACTS

European Commission

2022/C 466/11

Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to a product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33

30

2022/C 466/12

Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to a product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33

37

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| | (1)   Text with EEA relevance. |

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(1)   Text with EEA relevance.

1

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EN

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I Resolutions, recommendations and opinions

RESOLUTIONS

Council

| 7.12.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 466/1 |
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7.12.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 466/1

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COUNCIL RESOLUTION ON THE EU WORK PLAN FOR CULTURE 2023–2026

(2022/C 466/01)

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,

ACKNOWLEDGING

| — | that culture is an infinite source of inspiration and innovation, a reflection of humanity and aesthetics, our shared language and heritage, and a fundamental part of our identities and communities; |
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that culture is an infinite source of inspiration and innovation, a reflection of humanity and aesthetics, our shared language and heritage, and a fundamental part of our identities and communities;

| — | the role of culture as an integral element in sustainable development and positive societal transformation; |
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the role of culture as an integral element in sustainable development and positive societal transformation;

| — | the growing significance of EU values, including freedom of expression and creation; |
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the growing significance of EU values, including freedom of expression and creation;

| — | the contribution of the cultural and creative sectors to employment and the EU economy; |
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the contribution of the cultural and creative sectors to employment and the EU economy;

| — | the role of culture in the EU’s external relations and cooperation with other international bodies, especially the Council of Europe and UNESCO; |
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the role of culture in the EU’s external relations and cooperation with other international bodies, especially the Council of Europe and UNESCO;

| — | the Council’s previous work plans for culture and the results achieved; |
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the Council’s previous work plans for culture and the results achieved;

IN THE LIGHT OF

| — | the ongoing Russian war against Ukraine, an EU candidate country, which constitutes a flagrant violation of international law and an attack on human rights and fundamental EU values and principles, which threatens to destroy the rich cultural life and heritage of Ukraine, and which has triggered the largest displacement of citizens in Europe since the Second World War and an alarming energy crisis; |
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the ongoing Russian war against Ukraine, an EU candidate country, which constitutes a flagrant violation of international law and an attack on human rights and fundamental EU values and principles, which threatens to destroy the rich cultural life and heritage of Ukraine, and which has triggered the largest displacement of citizens in Europe since the Second World War and an alarming energy crisis;

| — | the serious impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on society as a whole, on each individual and on many economic sectors, especially the cultural and creative sectors, many of which continue to suffer from its consequences; |
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the serious impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on society as a whole, on each individual and on many economic sectors, especially the cultural and creative sectors, many of which continue to suffer from its consequences;

| — | the accelerating pace of climate change, the loss of biodiversity and the consequent need to step up the sustainability transformation, which culture can expedite by awareness-raising, creativity and innovation; |
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the accelerating pace of climate change, the loss of biodiversity and the consequent need to step up the sustainability transformation, which culture can expedite by awareness-raising, creativity and innovation;

| — | ongoing processes such as digitalisation and persistent challenges such as the specific working conditions of artists, creators and other cultural professionals; |
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ongoing processes such as digitalisation and persistent challenges such as the specific working conditions of artists, creators and other cultural professionals;

RECALLING

| — | the main political references as set out in Annex II to this Resolution; |
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the main political references as set out in Annex II to this Resolution;

| — | the importance of mainstreaming the cultural dimension into all relevant policy areas, programmes and initiatives, and the need for increased synergies; |
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the importance of mainstreaming the cultural dimension into all relevant policy areas, programmes and initiatives, and the need for increased synergies;

| — | the efforts taken to develop and implement a strategic EU approach to international cultural relations; |
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the efforts taken to develop and implement a strategic EU approach to international cultural relations;

AGREES

on the following overarching priorities with regard to their contribution to enhancing European cultural cooperation, promoting cultural diversity and providing European added value, and in view of the need for joint action over the next four years, taking into consideration the main challenges and with due regard for the principles of subsidiarity and proportionality:

| a) | Artists and cultural professionals: empowering the cultural and creative sectors |
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a)

Artists and cultural professionals: empowering the cultural and creative sectors

| b) | Culture for the people: enhancing cultural participation and the role of culture in society |
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b)

Culture for the people: enhancing cultural participation and the role of culture in society

| c) | Culture for the planet: unleashing the power of culture |
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c)

Culture for the planet: unleashing the power of culture

| d) | Culture for co-creative partnerships: strengthening the cultural dimension of EU external relations |
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d)

Culture for co-creative partnerships: strengthening the cultural dimension of EU external relations

INVITES THE COMMISSION AND THE HIGH REPRESENTATIVE OF THE UNION FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND SECURITY POLICY, WITHIN THEIR RESPECTIVE SPHERES OF COMPETENCE AND WITH DUE REGARD FOR THE PRINCIPLE OF SUBSIDIARITY

| — | to prepare a working document on preliminary key findings on the implementation of this EU Work Plan, based on voluntary written contributions from Member States, by April 2026, and to adopt a final report by June 2026; |
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to prepare a working document on preliminary key findings on the implementation of this EU Work Plan, based on voluntary written contributions from Member States, by April 2026, and to adopt a final report by June 2026;

| — | based on prior consultations with Member States and stakeholders, to consider proposing an EU strategic framework for culture that will reflect the guiding principles set out in Annex I and will aim to strategically mainstream the cultural policy perspective and the assets of culture into all relevant EU policies, programmes and initiatives. The EU Work Plans for Culture will continue to prioritise and identify specific actions for cultural cooperation at European level. |
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based on prior consultations with Member States and stakeholders, to consider proposing an EU strategic framework for culture that will reflect the guiding principles set out in Annex I and will aim to strategically mainstream the cultural policy perspective and the assets of culture into all relevant EU policies, programmes and initiatives. The EU Work Plans for Culture will continue to prioritise and identify specific actions for cultural cooperation at European level.

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ANNEX I

I.   GUIDING PRINCIPLES

The EU Work Plan for Culture is based on the following guiding principles:

| — | Culture, including cultural heritage, has an intrinsic value and contributes to strengthening European identity. |
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Culture, including cultural heritage, has an intrinsic value and contributes to strengthening European identity.

| — | Cultural and linguistic diversity are fundamental assets of the EU and are to be respected, promoted and enhanced, including through mobility and the circulation of works. |
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Cultural and linguistic diversity are fundamental assets of the EU and are to be respected, promoted and enhanced, including through mobility and the circulation of works.

| — | Freedom of artistic expression and creativity are fundamental to the human ability to address challenges, to think critically, to innovate and to invent, and they must be encouraged and supported in all relevant ways. |
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Freedom of artistic expression and creativity are fundamental to the human ability to address challenges, to think critically, to innovate and to invent, and they must be encouraged and supported in all relevant ways.

| — | Cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue are essential for the promotion and protection of human rights; they foster mutual understanding, help prevent and resolve conflicts and promote reconciliation, peace and international stability, and any misuse of culture with the aim of spreading war propaganda and disinformation and of instigating hatred is incompatible with the fundamental values and principles of the EU. |
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Cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue are essential for the promotion and protection of human rights; they foster mutual understanding, help prevent and resolve conflicts and promote reconciliation, peace and international stability, and any misuse of culture with the aim of spreading war propaganda and disinformation and of instigating hatred is incompatible with the fundamental values and principles of the EU.

| — | Culture makes a significant contribution to sustainable development, the economy and social inclusion, enhancing territorial cohesion. |
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Culture makes a significant contribution to sustainable development, the economy and social inclusion, enhancing territorial cohesion.

| — | Culture has the potential to promote equality and mutual respect, and to fight against all forms of violence, discrimination, intolerance and prejudice. |
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Culture has the potential to promote equality and mutual respect, and to fight against all forms of violence, discrimination, intolerance and prejudice.

| — | Implementation should be supported by optimised use of quality data and statistics. |
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Implementation should be supported by optimised use of quality data and statistics.

II.   PRIORITY AREAS

a)   Artists and cultural professionals: empowering the cultural and creative sectors

The cultural and creative ecosystem is inconceivable without the people who create cultural content in countless forms: artists and other cultural and creative professionals, institutions and organisations. Strong cultural and creative sectors (CCS) are therefore indispensable. However, they are characterised by self-employment, small and micro-enterprises, high competitiveness and fragmented markets. Artists and cultural and creative professionals tend to have project-based careers and experience a high degree of mobility. They often have an irregular and unpredictable income and combine several jobs to earn a living.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the CCS have displayed great adaptability and innovativeness. Nevertheless, they have been seriously impacted and continue to be affected by the consequences of the pandemic.

The ongoing Russian invasion in Ukraine and its effects on the cultural and creative ecosystem, highlight cultural actors’ integral role in democratic societies and the importance of safeguarding the freedom of artistic expression, which is coming under increasing pressure.

Now more than ever, there is an urgent need to further strengthen the resilience of the CCS, to support their recovery and diversity, to encourage their engagement with the sustainability objectives, to capitalise on new trends accelerated by the pandemic, including in the digital environment, and to ensure fair working conditions for all cultural and creative professionals so that more voices can be heard from this independent and dynamic sector.

b)   Culture for the people: enhancing cultural participation and the role of culture in society

Culture, including cultural heritage, plays a crucial role in our democracies and in the lives of individuals. Participation in culture and cultural heritage, creativity and the arts has a positive impact on people of all ages and backgrounds; it enhances people’s quality of life, and improves the health and overall well-being of individuals and communities. Cultural participation facilitates social and territorial cohesion, while fostering respect for cultural and linguistic diversity and providing a platform for open dialogue within civil societies.

Cultural and linguistic diversity are among Europe’s key assets and, as such, must be respected and promoted, paying particular attention to lesser-used languages. Special attention is needed to ensure children’s and young people’s participation in cultural life and their reading capacity, fostering their creativity and enriching their experience. An inclusive approach to vulnerable and disadvantaged groups is equally important.

Cultural institutions play a vital role in strengthening democracy and social well-being by reaching out to the whole community, providing affordable or free access to knowledge and information, in full respect of intellectual property rights, enhancing media literacy, creating common ground for dialogue and debate, and thereby strengthening social integration and community engagement, and ultimately contributing to combating disinformation, hate speech and fake news. This role of cultural institutions must be further nurtured.

In this regard, the current work plan pays special attention to fostering the development of libraries. Many libraries also provide a peaceful and safe environment for vulnerable people, which is currently of specific relevance with regard to the many displaced people from Ukraine and their need for physical and mental shelter.

c)   Culture for the planet: unleashing the power of culture

The cultural and creative ecosystems in Europe and beyond are facing serious threats of both natural and human origin, with climate change in particular having a long-term impact on European cultural and creative sectors. It is essential that cultural heritage and the CCS be prepared for future challenges. It is high time to act on risk preparedness in cultural heritage and on strengthening cultural heritage’s resilience to climate change. The EU will continue, and will intensify, the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural goods.

Culture, including cultural heritage, contributes to the sustainability transformation needed to meet the objectives of the European Green Deal and the 2030 Agenda. In this context, digital technologies also play a key role. Therefore, innovation in the cultural and creative sectors, digital transformation and the accessibility of culture and cultural heritage in the digital space must be further strengthened. The EIT KIC Culture and Creativity (1) will have a key role in this respect. It is also necessary to take a balanced approach to the built environment. Wide-scale promotion of the New European Bauhaus (NEB) initiative could help raise awareness of the importance of quality architecture and built environment.

Furthermore, research and cultural statistics should be improved in order to be able to better monitor the performance of the CCS and develop efficient evidence-based policies to support them. Eurostat should play a central and increasing role in cooperation with other international and independent organisations working in the field of research and statistics in the CCS.

d)   Culture for co-creative partnerships: strengthening the cultural dimension of EU external relations

Europe’s cultural richness and freedom, the EU’s bottom-up approach rooted in civil society and the EU’s strong engagement in co-creation are strong assets for international relations from the perspective of building sustainable partnerships on an equal footing. It is highly important to make full use of this potential by not only increasing the number of cultural cooperation activities and projects but also their visibility and outreach.

Russia’s war against Ukraine is a clear indication both of gradually changing geopolitical realities and of the misuse of culture and heritage to help justify military aggression. Against this background, cultural co-creation can authentically underpin and credibly communicate our European values, including artistic liberties and cultural rights, in large parts of the world, and thus help contain the reach of authoritarian systems.

Bearing in mind the future of our planet and the common goal of sustainability, more cultural ambition for change and intellectual dialogue that paves the way for joint approaches in the spirit of the NEB (sustainable, inclusive, beautiful) is needed. Close coordination at EU level and the integration of culture into all relevant areas of the EU’s external action and into appropriate financial instruments will be key to strengthening the role of culture in EU external relations.

III.   IMPLEMENTATION AND WORKING METHODS

| 1. | The Council invites the Member States, the Commission and, for the external action aspects, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, to work together on implementing actions under the Work Plan on the basis of a rolling agenda as set out in Chapter IV and Annex A. The timetable in Annex A is by its nature indicative and will be implemented by subsequent Presidencies as appropriate. |
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1.

| 2. | Regular dialogue and cooperation among Member States, EU institutions, civil society, international organisations and third-country partners is expected to create a holistic approach which supports synergies and, where appropriate, policy coherence, encourages mutual learning and can lead to better results. |
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2.

| 3. | The realisation of the Work Plan and the implementation of the Creative Europe Programme through its annual work plans and other culture-related programmes and activities should complement each other in a synergetic way. |
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3.

| 4. | The EU Work Plan for Culture should be monitored by the Presidency of the Council and, if necessary, may be adjusted by the Council in light of results achieved and/or relevant policy developments at European or international level. |
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4.

| 5. | Topics in each priority area are addressed through several actions (Chapter IV), using the most appropriate working method(s). The final outcome of each action, together with a corresponding report outlining conclusions and recommendations, where appropriate, will be presented to the Cultural Affairs Committee (CAC) and, where appropriate, to the Audiovisual and Media Working Party (AVMWP) for discussion and a possible decision on future steps. |
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5.

| 6. | Flexibility in the provisions and implementation of the EU Work Plan for Culture is essential in order to be able to react to ongoing and future challenges and a changing policy environment. |
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6.

| 7. | The following working methods, (2) among others, can be used: the Open Method of Coordination (OMC); ad hoc or Commission-led expert groups and roundtables; peer-learning activities; experimental and pilot-type actions; think-tank meetings; studies; conferences; stocktaking seminars or other stocktaking formats; dialogue with civil society; formal and informal workshops; joint initiatives with the Council of Europe and other international organisations; Council conclusions; and informal meetings of officials from Ministries of Culture and, when appropriate, other ministries. |
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7.

IV.   ACTIONS

In relation to the priority areas and working methods described in Chapters II and III, the following actions will be carried out:

a)   Artists and cultural professionals: empowering the cultural and creative sectors

—   
  Status and working conditions of artists and cultural and creative professionals

Working methods: Follow-up to the ongoing OMC group; thematic workshops; possible conference.

Rationale: As a follow-up to the OMC expert group, an online platform is proposed to provide information about artists’ and cultural and creative professionals’ working conditions in the EU Member States. The platform will be based on valuable data and material gathered also in cooperation with social partners represented in various cultural sectors and should continuously take updates and new measures into account. In addition, topics such as diversity, mobility and a gender perspective will also be considered. This would help to obtain information on the working conditions across the EU and better cope with administrative requirements, as regards social security and other aspects such as taxation. Exchanging experience with regard to the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) for this topic should be also taken into consideration.

Target outputs: An online platform to enable continuous exchange of information and good practices among stakeholders with regard to improving artists’ and creative professionals’ working conditions; stocktaking of progress and work on specific recommendations on the Status of the Artist (3).

—   
  Artistic freedom

Working methods:
  Conference, followed by related Council conclusions.

Rationale:
  Artistic freedom is a fundamental part of cultural work, and the protection of artistic freedom has proved to be an important element as regards strengthening the link between culture and democracy. Artists and stakeholders within the cultural sector are facing new and increasingly difficult challenges. Joint efforts to enable artists and cultural actors to freely exercise their professions throughout the EU are therefore of utmost importance. This issue not only concerns terms and conditions for artists, but also determines whose voices are heard.

Target outputs:
  Exchanging ideas and best practices by discussing different perspectives and policy development to stimulate positive change.

—   Stimulate the digital transformation of the cultural and creative sectors

Working methods:
  Conference, possibly followed by related Council conclusions.

Rationale:
  Digitisation has resulted in a profound transformation of the cultural and creative sectors in the past decade. It has brought about fundamental changes to the way professionals in these sectors operate and to the relationships between them and with their audiences. However, fragmentation of efforts and a lack of collaboration on a larger scale hinder a strong and agile approach to digital transformation.

Target outputs:
  Exchanging experience to identify transferable best practices in order to promote a coherent and sustainable digital transformation across the CCS.

—   Stimulate the green transition of the cultural and creative sectors, with a specific focus on the energy crisis

Working methods:
  Workshop(s) / OMC; a stocktaking exercise on the energy crisis for sharing best practices.

Rationale:
  The CCS must not be left behind in the green transition. They must reinforce their contribution to a sustainable future and play an active role in the green transition, climate action and Europe’s recovery, with a specific focus on the current energy crisis, while considering the Union’s geographical diversity and characteristics. A variety of practices and initiatives have already been tried out. The work under this action should reflect the outcomes of the OMC groups on the cultural dimension of sustainable development and on strengthening cultural heritage resilience for climate change. Exchanging experience with regard to the RRF for this topic should also be taken into consideration.

Target outputs:
  Exchanging experiences and identifying transferable best practices in the CCS (especially in performing arts, music, museums, film production), including on CO2 calculators; supporting CCS efforts to adapt to the green transition.

—   Enhancing the cultural and creative dimension in the European video games sector

Working method:
  A series of roundtables and/or think-tank meeting.

Rationale: As a follow-up to the Council conclusions on a European Strategy for the Cultural and Creative Industries Ecosystem and the European Parliament initiative report and pilot project on video games, discussions at European level can identify avenues to support the cultural and creative dimension in the European video games sector, which is at the forefront of new cultural practices in the digital environment. These discussions could also explore issues related to financing mechanisms, especially for SMEs and start-ups; independence, freedom of creation and diversity of cultural expressions; skills and training; creative and technological innovation; new uses of video games for supporting the access of culture; the role of video games in educational purposes, etc.

Target outputs:
  Recommendations to support the cultural and creative dimension of the European video games sector and reinforce collaboration between European stakeholders in this field.

b)   Culture for the people: enhancing cultural participation and the role of culture in society

—   Culture and promoting democracy: towards cultural citizenship in Europe

Working methods:
  Peer-learning and possible conference bringing together policy makers and relevant stakeholders in the cultural and educational sectors.

Rationale:
  In the spirit of the Porto Santo Charter and based on the study commissioned in the framework of the Work Plan for Culture 2019–2022, it is necessary to intensify and broaden citizen participation, particularly among the younger generations, and to legitimise decision-making processes, engaging the whole community in decision-making, creation, production, communication, mediation and fruition. Cross-sectoral synergies between schools, cultural organisations, civil society and other actors must be established, in order to fully harness the transformative potential of culture for enhancing democracy.

Target outputs:
  Sharing experience and selection of examples of best practice.

—   Culture and health

Working methods:
  possible conference; possible informal meetings of officials from ministries of culture and ministries of health; short-term OMC group on including culture in health policies – exchanging good practices with a special focus on mental health.

Rationale:
  Cultural activities can support illness prevention, health promotion, and management and treatment of illnesses. Cultural activities offer a holistic approach and have a positive impact on people of all ages and backgrounds, enhance people’s quality of life and increase the health and overall well-being of individuals and communities. There is also a significant economic impact. The OMC can build on the results of the 2022 preparatory action ‘Culture for Health’ and on previous research and work undertaken on this topic.

Target outputs:
  Raising awareness of the positive effects of culture and creating more cross-sectoral cooperation among decision-makers; recommendations for implementing participatory cultural practices, with a focus on mental health; continue mapping good practices.

—   Building bridges: strengthen the multiple roles of libraries as gateways to and transmitters of cultural works, skills and European values

Working methods:
  OMC group; workshops; conference.

Rationale:
  Libraries play a key role in Europe’s democratic, social, cultural, and educational landscape at all levels. They make a significant contribution to building democracy, citizen engagement and public-participation activities across the EU, including in rural and remote areas, including the outermost regions. They welcome diverse groups, develop programmes and activities reflecting current societal challenges, and provide access to pluralist and reliable information and diverse cultural content in safe and accessible environments. They are essential gateways to local and indigenous data, knowledge, research and culture.

Target outputs:
  Starting a comprehensive debate and explore fields for promoting and strengthening libraries; identifying different dimensions and areas with potential, and exploring funding lines under EU programmes; bringing together policy makers and library professionals; explore possibilities for training and further activities for professionals.

—   Protection of children and young people from harmful content on digital platforms

Working methods:
  Workshop(s)/round table discussion(s).

Rationale:
  Today, children and young people are present in large numbers on digital platforms, which offer enormous positive potential. However, this also increases the risk of vulnerable groups being exposed to harmful content or misinformation, and of addiction. It is possible to build on the European strategy for a better internet for kids, the Digital Services Act (DSA) and the rules on protection of minors in the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD). Moreover, in order to protect children and young people against harmful content, media literacy and critical understanding of media and platforms are particularly important and relevant.

Target outputs:
  Identifying and supporting best practices to ensure the protection and empowerment of children and young people online, both in the Member States and at EU level.

—   Discoverability of diverse European cultural content in the digital environment

Working methods:
  Technical study and/or workshop.

Rationale:
  The discoverability of cultural content depends on how the data has been produced and documented, and also on content management by the big platforms, which act as gatekeepers. European content must be discoverable, beyond simply being available online. It is essential to build on existing work and consultations (e.g. Media Outlook, European Audiovisual Observatory, Europeana), to understand better the impact that content prioritisation practices, algorithm recommendations and curation strategies have on cultural and linguistic diversity, and find common solutions to increase the exposure of high-quality European content online, including suitable data-driven income models.

Target outputs:
  Recommendations; review of innovative projects and specific tools, but also of difficulties regarding access to content (including people with disabilities or lower income), with a focus on less-explored and less-regulated sectors such as music or books.

c)   Culture for the planet: unleashing the power of culture

—   Cultural statistics – to build resilience in and through culture

Working methods:
  Series of workshops and/or peer-learning activities; discussions with Eurostat and EU Member States’ statistical offices.

Rationale:
  The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted several structural challenges and vulnerabilities in the cultural and creative sectors. Important support measures have already been taken at national and EU level, but further steps still need to be taken, such as increased exchange of best practices among the Member States and the development of a set of reliable culture statistics, comparable across the EU, including on gender inequalities in the CCS. It is important to build on the results of the 2022 pilot project ‘Measuring the cultural and creative sectors in Europe’ and work in close collaboration with Eurostat.

Target outputs:
  Exchanging best practices among the Member States; identification and development of a set of harmonised and comparable statistics across the EU, covering gender equality aspects, the labour dimension, economic support for the sector, and cultural participation, with relevant social-demographic breakdowns.

—   Cultural governance

Working methods:
  Think-tank meeting, possibly followed by related Council conclusions.

Rationale:
  The world is currently facing a multitude of rapid changes. New ways of thinking and innovative approaches are therefore required, as well as transversal and integrated approaches on cultural governance, based on recent developments, research and innovation, are deemed necessary in order to put culture at the heart of public life.

Target outputs:
  Development of a new model of cultural governance proposing future-oriented approaches to holistically address current challenges.

—   Climate action through culture, including the arts and cultural heritage

Working methods:
  Follow-up to the 2022 OMC reports; workshops, possibly followed by related Council conclusions.

Rationale:
  Culture, including the arts and cultural heritage, can play a key role in triggering climate action and promoting sustainable consumption and production patterns. Culture can take an active role in climate action and stimulate a change of mindset towards the climate crisis. Our cultural heritage can be safeguarded through sharing best practices on targeted protection measures and, at the same time, it can be a source of good practice and knowledge regarding climate adaptation. The cooperation should build on the OMC reports on strengthening cultural heritage resilience for climate change and on the cultural dimension of sustainable development.

Target outputs:
  Exchanging knowledge regarding innovative artistic and cultural approaches, including measures under the RRF, to address the climate crisis and help transform behaviour to address the climate crisis; advancing EU-funded research on the topic.

—   High-quality living environment for everyone

Working methods:
  European Directors for Architectural Policies (EDAP) meetings; promotion of the NEB initiative via post-OMC expert network exchanges; possible organisation of a European conference on architectural policies.

Rationale:
  In line with the work and report of the OMC group of EU Member States experts on investing in a high-quality architecture and living environment for everyone (2021) and with the Council conclusions on culture, high-quality architecture and built environment as key elements of the NEB initiative (2021), the EDAP gather under each Council presidency to consider possible initiatives to achieve a high-quality living environment for everyone, including those living in rural and remote areas, such as outermost regions. The EDAP meetings could focus in particular on topics such as the quality of tomorrow’s housing, the restoration, renovation and adapted re-use of cultural heritage, and improvements of architecture competitions and public procurement. It is essential to build synergies with the NEB network.

Target outputs:
  Exchanging good practices among the EDAP; taking stock of the existing legislative frameworks and relevant initiatives in the field and possibly starting a process to monitor and champion the inclusion of high-quality standards in new and revised policies and programmes; NEB-related actions.

—   Safeguarding heritage against natural and human-made disasters

Working methods:
  Peer-learning activities (workshops, visits) and/or conference.

Rationale:
  Natural and human-made disasters and crises (such as climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian war against Ukraine) require strengthened risk-assessment skills, improved disaster preparedness, and coordinated actions in a transversal approach in order to safeguard cultural heritage, including intangible cultural heritage. It is necessary, while building on existing work, to further integrate cultural heritage into wider policies and initiatives at all levels, and to utilise existing common European platforms and developing projects (e.g. European Collaborative Cloud for Cultural Heritage, HEREIN) for exchange, discussion and sharing of knowledge and expertise on risk preparedness and management, recovery and rehabilitation of cultural heritage.

Target outputs:
  Building the capacity and skills of stakeholders; producing a comprehensive inventory of relevant manuals, guidelines and methodology at European level to facilitate the effective design and implementation of risk and emergency preparedness measures in and by Member States.

—   Exchanging information between cultural heritage professionals and competent authorities for cultural goods on the fight against trafficking cultural goods

Working methods:
  Series of workshops complementary to the upcoming EU Action Plan against Trafficking in Cultural Goods for 2023–2027 and/or peer-learning activities.

Rationale:
  EU legislation on the import and export of cultural goods deals with challenges at cross border trafficking in relation to the protection of cultural heritage. The competent authorities are confronted with several challenges (verification methods, documentation, data analysis, understanding how the art market works, including its shift to the internet, etc.). It is essential to ensure efficient cooperation between all actors involved, including ministries of culture, regional and local institutions, cultural heritage professionals, law enforcement agencies, special police forces, customs and judicial authorities, and art market professionals.

Target outputs:
  Assessing and improving cooperation between the actors involved; gaining insight into each other’s working methods; identifying risks and problems; and working on possible recommendations for improvements.

d)   Culture for co-creative partnerships: strengthening the cultural dimension of EU external relations

—   Governance of the EU strategic approach to international cultural relations and framework

Working methods:
  short-term OMC, senior officials’ meetings.

Rationale:
  Culture’s role in external relations has been enshrined in a number of recent milestone EU documents. Nevertheless, coordination and bridging gaps between different stakeholders involved in implementation remains a challenge at all levels, both for the EU and for Member States. Structuring the cooperation between all relevant actors and strengthening equal footing of interests, including artists and cultural professionals, is therefore necessary. Bearing in mind the principle of co-creation in the EU’s external relations, working methods need to be adapted for cohesive decision shaping on a continuous basis, including for the definition of regional and thematic priorities (e.g. in the context of partnerships with candidate countries) or the preparation of EU flagship actions (e.g. book fairs, world exhibitions, fairs and festivals, etc.).

Target outputs:
  Cross-cutting and inclusive methodology, including proposals for future working structures and methods that would ensure a reinforced, coherent and longer-term cultural cooperation process in international cultural relations, involving all relevant stakeholders.

—   Preserving cultural heritage and empowering local CCS in Ukraine

Working methods:
  Commission-led expert group or think-tank meetings and peer-learning/training activities; meetings with Permanent Representations.

Rationale:
  The Russian war against Ukraine has destroyed and damaged Ukrainian cultural heritage and cultural institutions, and placed them under considerable threat of further destruction and damage, as well as making them prey to trafficking. Preservation and protection efforts should therefore be supported. The reconstruction and recovery process should be undertaken by strengthening Ukraine’s capacity and expertise and should be based on national, international and European norms, on standard-setting texts, principles (such as NEB) and lessons learned, and be consistent with the European quality principles for EU-funded interventions with potential impact on cultural heritage (4). Likewise, Ukrainian cultural and creative actors and professionals need support as they continue to face many difficulties in their activities. In the spirit of co-creation, cultural cooperation with Ukraine should therefore be aimed at strengthening the CCS’ resilience, as well as their capacity to uphold a lively culture and arts scene.

Target outputs: Assessing possible joint measures, synergies and best practices for the preservation, protection and reconstruction of Ukrainian cultural heritage and cultural institutions, and for supporting Ukrainian cultural and creative actors.

—   The role of culture and cultural professionals in the promotion and defence of democracy and human rights in fragile contexts

Working methods:
  possible joint meetings with relevant Council Working Parties; joint stocktaking conference/seminar with the European Parliament, the Council of Europe, UNESCO and civil society.

Rationale:
  The EEAS 2021 Annual Report on Human Rights and Democracy in the World points to the global context of democratic backsliding and widespread violations of international human rights. This also affects cultural and creative professionals in third countries who engage in the defence of democracy, human rights, freedom of artistic expression, etc. While the EU already promotes respect for cultural rights and diversity in third countries, more focused and systematic support could be explored, keeping in mind the Council of Europe, UNESCO and European Parliament's implications in this field.

Target outputs: Comprehensive overview of situations, needs, etc. of cultural human rights defenders.

---

(1)  Knowledge and Innovation Community of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (https://eit.europa.eu/eit-community/eit-culture-creativity)

(2)  General guidelines relating to working methods are set out in Annex B.

(3)  https://en.unesco.org/creativity/governance/status-artist.

(4)  https://www.icomos.org/en/about-icomos/committees/regional-activities-europe/58799-european-quality-principles-for-eu-funded-interventions-with-potential-impact-upon-cultural-heritage

---

ANNEX A

Indicative timetable of the EU Work Plan for Culture 2023–2026

| Priority | Action | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1st half | 2nd half | 1st half | 2nd half | 1st half | 2nd half | 1st half | 2nd half |
| a) | Artists and cultural professionals: empowering the CCS |

Priority

Action

2023

2024

2025

2026

1st half

2nd half

1st half

2nd half

1st half

2nd half

1st half

2nd half

a)

Artists and cultural professionals: empowering the CCS

Status and working conditions of artists and cultural and creative professionals

Platform (EC)

Thematic

workshop

Thematic

workshop

Thematic workshop

or

Poss. conference

Artistic freedom

PRES Conference

Council conclusions

Stimulate the digital transformation of the CCS

PRES Conference

Poss. Council conclusions

Stimulate the green transition of the CCS, with specific focus on the energy crisis

Stocktaking – energy crisis

OMC or Workshops

Enhancing the cultural and creative dimension in the European video games sector

Roundtables and/or think tank meeting

Council conclusions on the recovery, resilience and sustainability of the cultural and creative sectors

Stocktaking

Council conclusions on reinforcing intercultural exchanges through the mobility of artists and cultural and creative professionals, and through multilingualism in the digital

Stocktaking

| b) | Culture for the people: enhancing cultural participation and the role of culture in society |
| --- | --- |

b)

Culture for the people: enhancing cultural participation and the role of culture in society

Culture and promoting democracy: towards a cultural citizenship in Europe

(Presentation EC study 2022- previous WP)

Peer-learning

Poss. Conference

Culture and health

Poss. conference

Poss. informal meeting of officials

(short) OMC group

Building bridges: strengthen the multiple role of libraries as gateways and transmitters of cultural works, skills and European values

Workshop

OMC group

Workshop

Conference

Protection of children and young people from harmful content on digital platforms

Workshop

Discoverability of diverse European content in the digital environment

Study

Poss. workshop

| c) | Culture for the planet: unleashing the power of culture |
| --- | --- |

c)

Culture for the planet: unleashing the power of culture

Cultural statistics – to build resilience in and through culture

Workshops/peer-learning and discussions with Eurostat and EU MS statistical offices

Cultural governance

Think-tank meeting

Poss. Council conclusions

Climate action through culture, incl. arts and cultural heritage

Poss. workshop

Poss. workshop

Workshop

Poss. Council conclusions

Advancing EU-funded research on the topic

High-quality living environment for everyone

EDAP meetings

Promoting NEB initiative

Poss. conference

Safeguarding heritage against natural and human-made disasters

Peer-learning

Poss. conference

Exchanging information between cultural heritage professionals and competent authorities for cultural goods on the fight against trafficking cultural goods

Workshop / peer-learning

Workshop / peer-learning

Workshop / peer-learning

| d) | Culture for co-creative partnerships: strengthening the cultural dimension of EU external relations |
| --- | --- |

d)

Culture for co-creative partnerships: strengthening the cultural dimension of EU external relations

Governance of the EU strategic approach to international cultural relations and framework

Senior Officials Meetings

Short OMC

Preserving cultural heritage and empowering local cultural and creative sectors in Ukraine

Commission led expert group or think-tank meetings

Peer-learning / training activities

Meetings with Permanent Representations

The role of culture and cultural professionals in the promotion and defence of democracy and human rights in fragile contexts

Joint stocktaking conference / seminar (with EP, CoE, UNESCO, civil society)

Joint meeting with relevant Council WP

---

ANNEX B

Guidelines relating to all working methods

General guidelines

| — | The working methods under the Work Plan are flexible and not limited to those listed in Chapter III, point 7. |
| --- | --- |

—

The working methods under the Work Plan are flexible and not limited to those listed in Chapter III, point 7.

| — | The Commission will provide expertise (including studies and other forms of expert input) and logistical support in respect of proposed working methods under this Work Plan, as relevant. |
| --- | --- |

—

The Commission will provide expertise (including studies and other forms of expert input) and logistical support in respect of proposed working methods under this Work Plan, as relevant.

| — | Participation is voluntary and, when relevant, based on Member State nominations. Specific rules apply to Commission expert groups and roundtables (see below). |
| --- | --- |

—

Participation is voluntary and, when relevant, based on Member State nominations. Specific rules apply to Commission expert groups and roundtables (see below).

| — | The Commission will provide a virtual space (for communication and document sharing) for selected working methods, if relevant, feasible and requested, to allow experts to keep in touch and debate the relevant issues. This virtual space will be open to nominees from all Member States and, where relevant, other participating countries. |
| --- | --- |

—

The Commission will provide a virtual space (for communication and document sharing) for selected working methods, if relevant, feasible and requested, to allow experts to keep in touch and debate the relevant issues. This virtual space will be open to nominees from all Member States and, where relevant, other participating countries.

| — | Upon request, the CAC will be informed on the progress made on the Work Plan actions. |
| --- | --- |

—

Upon request, the CAC will be informed on the progress made on the Work Plan actions.

| — | For each final outcome of each working method within the Work Plan, a plan for distribution and communication at European, national and regional levels will be proposed, as appropriate. |
| --- | --- |

—

For each final outcome of each working method within the Work Plan, a plan for distribution and communication at European, national and regional levels will be proposed, as appropriate.

| — | Recommendations coming out of each working method will be discussed by the CAC and, when relevant, by other relevant preparatory bodies and, as appropriate, presented to the Council. |
| --- | --- |

—

Recommendations coming out of each working method will be discussed by the CAC and, when relevant, by other relevant preparatory bodies and, as appropriate, presented to the Council.

| — | Final reports on each working method will be published and, as appropriate, an executive summary – not exceeding four pages – will be translated by the Commission into all official EU languages. |
| --- | --- |

—

Final reports on each working method will be published and, as appropriate, an executive summary – not exceeding four pages – will be translated by the Commission into all official EU languages.

Open Method of Coordination (OMC)

| — | The OMC provides a framework for cooperation, exchange and sharing good practices among Member States on certain common topics and allows for the development of non-binding recommendations. |
| --- | --- |

—

The OMC provides a framework for cooperation, exchange and sharing good practices among Member States on certain common topics and allows for the development of non-binding recommendations.

| — | The OMC mandate will be finalised in the CAC – with input from the AVMWP, where relevant – on the basis of a draft mandate proposed by the Commission. |
| --- | --- |

—

The OMC mandate will be finalised in the CAC – with input from the AVMWP, where relevant – on the basis of a draft mandate proposed by the Commission.

| — | The mandate can propose that third parties, including third countries, be invited to an OMC group (1). |
| --- | --- |

—

The mandate can propose that third parties, including third countries, be invited to an OMC group (1).

| — | Each OMC group will be responsible for appointing a chair or co-chairs at the first expert group meeting. |
| --- | --- |

—

Each OMC group will be responsible for appointing a chair or co-chairs at the first expert group meeting.

| — | Depending on the topic, the OMC group might be encouraged to form smaller focus groups and use participatory methods, where appropriate. |
| --- | --- |

—

Depending on the topic, the OMC group might be encouraged to form smaller focus groups and use participatory methods, where appropriate.

Peer-learning activities

| — | Peer-learning activities should allow relevant policy makers, practitioners and/or relevant stakeholders to exchange ideas and knowledge about practices, tools and working methods at national, regional or local level. They should take place in a practical context using a strong hands-on approach. |
| --- | --- |

—

Peer-learning activities should allow relevant policy makers, practitioners and/or relevant stakeholders to exchange ideas and knowledge about practices, tools and working methods at national, regional or local level. They should take place in a practical context using a strong hands-on approach.

| — | Individual Member States or a group of Member States may take the initiative and provide or ask for expertise on this working method. |
| --- | --- |

—

Individual Member States or a group of Member States may take the initiative and provide or ask for expertise on this working method.

| — | The Commission may also organise peer-learning activities for national, regional or local practitioners. |
| --- | --- |

—

The Commission may also organise peer-learning activities for national, regional or local practitioners.

Think-tank meetings

| — | Think-tank meetings should provide the space to discuss new, topical or innovative subjects, as well as to brainstorm on plans or strategies. The debate should be open and strictly informal. |
| --- | --- |

—

Think-tank meetings should provide the space to discuss new, topical or innovative subjects, as well as to brainstorm on plans or strategies. The debate should be open and strictly informal.

| — | Individual Member States or a group of Member States, in cooperation with relevant stakeholders, can take the initiative and provide expertise and logistical support on this working method. |
| --- | --- |

—

Individual Member States or a group of Member States, in cooperation with relevant stakeholders, can take the initiative and provide expertise and logistical support on this working method.

| — | The method may involve a single meeting or a series of meetings, as proposed by the initiating body. |
| --- | --- |

—

The method may involve a single meeting or a series of meetings, as proposed by the initiating body.

Stocktaking exercises

| — | The purpose of stocktaking exercises is to review and assess developments in, and achievements on, a topic agreed on in the CAC. In addition, it will provide a forum for all involved in the discussion. |
| --- | --- |

—

The purpose of stocktaking exercises is to review and assess developments in, and achievements on, a topic agreed on in the CAC. In addition, it will provide a forum for all involved in the discussion.

| — | Stocktaking exercises can take any appropriate form, e.g. an online expert meeting, a questionnaire, a conference, etc. |
| --- | --- |

—

Stocktaking exercises can take any appropriate form, e.g. an online expert meeting, a questionnaire, a conference, etc.

Commission-led expert groups and roundtables

| — | Commission-led expert groups are consultative bodies set up by the Commission to provide advice in relation to the preparation of legislative acts and policy initiatives (2). Participating experts are selected according to the Commission’s internal rules. |
| --- | --- |

—

Commission-led expert groups are consultative bodies set up by the Commission to provide advice in relation to the preparation of legislative acts and policy initiatives (2). Participating experts are selected according to the Commission’s internal rules.

| — | The Commission may also organise roundtables with selected participants on a topic agreed on in the EU Work Plan for Culture. |
| --- | --- |

—

The Commission may also organise roundtables with selected participants on a topic agreed on in the EU Work Plan for Culture.

---

(1)  For the purposes of this Work Plan, ‘third countries’ are those referred to in the provisions of articles 9 and 10 of the Creative Europe Programme (Regulation (EU) 2021/818 – OJ L 189, 28.5.2021, pp. 34).

(2)  The register of Commission Expert groups: https://ec.europa.eu/transparency/expert-groups-register/screen/home

---

ANNEX II

Main political references

| — | A New Strategic Agenda for the EU 2019–2024 (adopted on 20 June 2019) |
| --- | --- |

—

A New Strategic Agenda for the EU 2019–2024 (adopted on 20 June 2019)

| — | Communication from the Commission on A New European Agenda for Culture, 22 May 2018 (COM/2018/267 final) |
| --- | --- |

—

Communication from the Commission on A New European Agenda for Culture, 22 May 2018 (COM/2018/267 final)

| — | Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions – Europe’s Media in the Digital Decade: An Action Plan to Support Recovery and Transformation (COM/2020/784 final) |
| --- | --- |

—

Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions – Europe’s Media in the Digital Decade: An Action Plan to Support Recovery and Transformation (COM/2020/784 final)

| — | Concept on cultural heritage in conflicts and crises. A component for peace and security in European Union’s external action (April 2021) |
| --- | --- |

—

Concept on cultural heritage in conflicts and crises. A component for peace and security in European Union’s external action (April 2021)

| — | Conference on the Future of Europe, Report on the final outcome (May 2022) |
| --- | --- |

—

Conference on the Future of Europe, Report on the final outcome (May 2022)

| — | Consolidated version of the Treaty on European Union and the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union with special attention to Articles 8, 10 and 167 TFEU (OJ C 202, 7.6.2016, p. 47) |
| --- | --- |

—

Consolidated version of the Treaty on European Union and the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union with special attention to Articles 8, 10 and 167 TFEU (OJ C 202, 7.6.2016, p. 47)

| — | Convention on Offences relating to Cultural Property (2017) |
| --- | --- |

—

Convention on Offences relating to Cultural Property (2017)

| — | Council conclusions on ‘Europe’s Media in the Digital Decade: An Action Plan to Support Recovery and Transformation’ (OJ C 210, 3.6.2021; p. 1) |
| --- | --- |

—

Council conclusions on ‘Europe’s Media in the Digital Decade: An Action Plan to Support Recovery and Transformation’ (OJ C 210, 3.6.2021; p. 1)

| — | Council conclusions on an EU strategic approach to international cultural relations and a framework for action (OJ C 192, 7.6.2019, p. 6) |
| --- | --- |

—

Council conclusions on an EU strategic approach to international cultural relations and a framework for action (OJ C 192, 7.6.2019, p. 6)

| — | Council conclusions on Building a European Strategy for the Cultural and Creative Industries Ecosystem (OJ C 160, 13.4.2022, p. 13) |
| --- | --- |

—

Council conclusions on Building a European Strategy for the Cultural and Creative Industries Ecosystem (OJ C 160, 13.4.2022, p. 13)

| — | Council conclusions on Cultural Governance (OJ C 393, 19.12.2012, p. 8) |
| --- | --- |

—

Council conclusions on Cultural Governance (OJ C 393, 19.12.2012, p. 8)

| — | Council conclusions on culture, high-quality architecture and built environment as key elements of the New European Bauhaus initiative (OJ CI 501, 13.12.2021, p. 13) |
| --- | --- |

—

Council conclusions on culture, high-quality architecture and built environment as key elements of the New European Bauhaus initiative (OJ CI 501, 13.12.2021, p. 13)

| — | Council conclusions on EU approach to cultural heritage in conflicts and crisis (doc. 9837/21) |
| --- | --- |

—

Council conclusions on EU approach to cultural heritage in conflicts and crisis (doc. 9837/21)

| — | Council conclusions on Reinforcing intercultural exchanges through the mobility of artists and cultural and creative professionals, and through multilingualism in the digital era (OJ C 160, 13.4.2022, p. 20) |
| --- | --- |

—

Council conclusions on Reinforcing intercultural exchanges through the mobility of artists and cultural and creative professionals, and through multilingualism in the digital era (OJ C 160, 13.4.2022, p. 20)

| — | Council conclusions on risk management in the area of cultural heritage (OJ C 186, 5.6.2020, p. 1) |
| --- | --- |

—

Council conclusions on risk management in the area of cultural heritage (OJ C 186, 5.6.2020, p. 1)

| — | Council conclusions on the recovery, resilience and sustainability of the cultural and creative sectors (OJ C 209, 2.6.2021, p. 3) |
| --- | --- |

—

Council conclusions on the recovery, resilience and sustainability of the cultural and creative sectors (OJ C 209, 2.6.2021, p. 3)

| — | Council conclusions on the Work Plan for Culture 2019-2022 (OJ C 460, 21.12.2018; p. 12) and Report from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee of the Regions on the Work Plan for Culture 2019–2022 (COM/2022/317 final) |
| --- | --- |

—

Council conclusions on the Work Plan for Culture 2019-2022 (OJ C 460, 21.12.2018; p. 12) and Report from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee of the Regions on the Work Plan for Culture 2019–2022 (COM/2022/317 final)

| — | Council conclusions on young creative generations (OJ C 189, 5.6.2019, p. 34) |
| --- | --- |

—

Council conclusions on young creative generations (OJ C 189, 5.6.2019, p. 34)

| — | Davos Declaration – Towards a high-quality Baukultur for Europe, 20–22 January 2018 |
| --- | --- |

—

Davos Declaration – Towards a high-quality Baukultur for Europe, 20–22 January 2018

| — | Decision (EU) 2017/864 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 May 2017 on a European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018 (OJ L 131, 20.5.2017, p. 1) |
| --- | --- |

—

Decision (EU) 2017/864 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 May 2017 on a European Year of Cultural Heritage 2018 (OJ L 131, 20.5.2017, p. 1)

| — | Declaration of the European Ministers responsible for Culture, Audiovisual and the Media, meeting in Angers on 7 and 8 March 2022 |
| --- | --- |

—

Declaration of the European Ministers responsible for Culture, Audiovisual and the Media, meeting in Angers on 7 and 8 March 2022

| — | EU Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy 2020–2024 (JOIN/2020/5 final) |
| --- | --- |

—

EU Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy 2020–2024 (JOIN/2020/5 final)

| — | European Cultural Heritage Green Paper, ‘Putting Europe’s shared heritage at the heart of the European Green Deal’ (March 2021) |
| --- | --- |

—

European Cultural Heritage Green Paper, ‘Putting Europe’s shared heritage at the heart of the European Green Deal’ (March 2021)

| — | European Parliament resolution of 17 September 2020 on the cultural recovery of Europe (2020/2708(RSP)) |
| --- | --- |

—

European Parliament resolution of 17 September 2020 on the cultural recovery of Europe (2020/2708(RSP))

| — | European Parliament resolution of 20 October 2021 on the situation of artists and the cultural recovery in the EU (2020/2261(INI)) |
| --- | --- |

—

European Parliament resolution of 20 October 2021 on the situation of artists and the cultural recovery in the EU (2020/2261(INI))

| — | Framework Convention on the Value of Cultural Heritage for Society (Faro Convention, 2005) |
| --- | --- |

—

Framework Convention on the Value of Cultural Heritage for Society (Faro Convention, 2005)

| — | G-20 Rome Leaders’ Declaration |
| --- | --- |

—

G-20 Rome Leaders’ Declaration

| — | Joint Communication from the Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy to the European Parliament and the Council – Towards an EU strategy for international cultural relations (JOIN/2016/029 final) |
| --- | --- |

—

Joint Communication from the Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy to the European Parliament and the Council – Towards an EU strategy for international cultural relations (JOIN/2016/029 final)

| — | Ministerial declaration on culture in times of COVID-19 crisis (April 2020) |
| --- | --- |

—

Ministerial declaration on culture in times of COVID-19 crisis (April 2020)

| — | Porto Santo Charter (2021) |
| --- | --- |

—

Porto Santo Charter (2021)

| — | Recommendation CM/Rec (2017) to Member States on the European Cultural Heritage Strategy for the 21st century (2017) |
| --- | --- |

—

Recommendation CM/Rec (2017) to Member States on the European Cultural Heritage Strategy for the 21st century (2017)

| — | Regulation (EU) 2021/818 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2021 establishing the Creative Europe Programme (2021 to 2027) (OJ L 189, 28.5.2021, p. 34) |
| --- | --- |

—

Regulation (EU) 2021/818 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2021 establishing the Creative Europe Programme (2021 to 2027) (OJ L 189, 28.5.2021, p. 34)

| — | Resolution of the Council of the European Union and the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States meeting within the Council on the Cultural Dimension of Sustainable Development (OJ C 410, 6.12.2019, p. 1) |
| --- | --- |

—

Resolution of the Council of the European Union and the Representatives of the Governments of the Member States meeting within the Council on the Cultural Dimension of Sustainable Development (OJ C 410, 6.12.2019, p. 1)

| — | Rome Charter (2020) |
| --- | --- |

—

Rome Charter (2020)

| — | Transforming our world: the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (A/RES/70/1) |
| --- | --- |

—

Transforming our world: the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (A/RES/70/1)

| — | UNESCO 2005 Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions |
| --- | --- |

—

UNESCO 2005 Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions

| — | UNESCO Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict, with regulations for the execution of the Convention (Hague, 14 May 1954) |
| --- | --- |

—

UNESCO Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict, with regulations for the execution of the Convention (Hague, 14 May 1954)

| — | UNESCO Mondiacult Declaration for Culture (Mexico City, 30 September 2022) |
| --- | --- |

—

UNESCO Mondiacult Declaration for Culture (Mexico City, 30 September 2022)

| — | United Nations Security Council Resolution 2347 (UNESCO Digital Library, 2017, CL/4210) |
| --- | --- |

—

United Nations Security Council Resolution 2347 (UNESCO Digital Library, 2017, CL/4210)

---

II Information

INFORMATION FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

European Commission

| 7.12.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 466/19 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

7.12.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 466/19

---

Non-opposition to a notified concentration

(Case M.10895 – ATHORA / AXA CUSTOMER SOLUTIONS)

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2022/C 466/02)

On 28 October 2022, the Commission decided not to oppose the above notified concentration and to declare it compatible with the internal market. This decision is based on Article 6(1)(b) of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1). The full text of the decision is available only in English and will be made public after it is cleared of any business secrets it may contain. It will be available:

| — | in the merger section of the ‘Competition policy’ website of the Commission (http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/). This website provides various facilities to help locate individual merger decisions, including company, case number, date and sectoral indexes, |
| --- | --- |

—

in the merger section of the ‘Competition policy’ website of the Commission (http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/). This website provides various facilities to help locate individual merger decisions, including company, case number, date and sectoral indexes,

| — | in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/homepage.html?locale=en) under document number 32022M10895. EUR-Lex is the online point of access to European Union law. |
| --- | --- |

—

in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/homepage.html?locale=en) under document number 32022M10895. EUR-Lex is the online point of access to European Union law.

---

(1)  OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1.

---

| 7.12.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 466/20 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

7.12.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 466/20

---

Non-opposition to a notified concentration

(Case M.10942 – PHO P / STORA ENSO MAXAU)

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2022/C 466/03)

On 29 November 2022, the Commission decided not to oppose the above notified concentration and to declare it compatible with the internal market. This decision is based on Article 6(1)(b) of Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (1). The full text of the decision is available only in English and will be made public after it is cleared of any business secrets it may contain. It will be available:

| — | in the merger section of the ‘Competition policy’ website of the Commission (http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/). This website provides various facilities to help locate individual merger decisions, including company, case number, date and sectoral indexes, |
| --- | --- |

—

in the merger section of the ‘Competition policy’ website of the Commission (http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/). This website provides various facilities to help locate individual merger decisions, including company, case number, date and sectoral indexes,

| — | in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/homepage.html?locale=en) under document number 32022M10942. EUR-Lex is the online point of access to European Union law. |
| --- | --- |

—

in electronic form on the EUR-Lex website (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/homepage.html?locale=en) under document number 32022M10942. EUR-Lex is the online point of access to European Union law.

---

(1)  OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1.

---

IV Notices

NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES

Council

| 7.12.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 466/21 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

7.12.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 466/21

---

Joint statement of the European Parliament and the Council in relation to Regulation (EU) 2022/2379, as regards the importance of establishing in all Member States a register held by national competent authorities on the use of plant protection products in agriculture

(2022/C 466/04)

As part of the European Green Deal, the Farm to Fork Strategy and the Biodiversity Strategy highlight the need for a transition to a sustainable food system, in particular by reducing the use and risk of pesticides by 50 % by 2030 and by increasing organic farming and biodiversity-rich landscape features on agricultural land.

Under Regulation (EU) 2022/2379 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1), the full collection of data on the use of plant protection products by professional users in an agricultural activity, that is a coverage of 95 % of the use in each Member State, can only be achieved when a legal requirement for professional users of plant protection products to transmit their records in electronic format to national competent authorities is applicable under Union law.

The European Parliament and the Council recognise the importance of introducing such a requirement into Union legislation and commit to working together to that end.

---

(1)  Regulation (EU) 2022/2379of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 November 2022 on statistics on agricultural input and output, amending Commission Regulation (EC) No 617/2008 and repealing Regulations (EC) No 1165/2008, (EC) No 543/2009 and (EC) No 1185/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council and Council Directive 96/16/EC (OJ L 315, 7.12.2022, p. 1).

---

European Commission

| 7.12.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 466/22 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

7.12.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 466/22

---

Euro exchange rates (1)

6 December 2022

(2022/C 466/05)

1 euro =

| | Currency | Exchange rate |
| --- | --- | --- |
| USD | US dollar | 1,0516 |
| JPY | Japanese yen | 143,33 |
| DKK | Danish krone | 7,4380 |
| GBP | Pound sterling | 0,86170 |
| SEK | Swedish krona | 10,8890 |
| CHF | Swiss franc | 0,9872 |
| ISK | Iceland króna | 148,90 |
| NOK | Norwegian krone | 10,4408 |
| BGN | Bulgarian lev | 1,9558 |
| CZK | Czech koruna | 24,316 |
| HUF | Hungarian forint | 415,08 |
| PLN | Polish zloty | 4,6975 |
| RON | Romanian leu | 4,9130 |
| TRY | Turkish lira | 19,6010 |
| AUD | Australian dollar | 1,5625 |
| CAD | Canadian dollar | 1,4326 |
| HKD | Hong Kong dollar | 8,1813 |
| NZD | New Zealand dollar | 1,6583 |
| SGD | Singapore dollar | 1,4263 |
| KRW | South Korean won | 1 386,39 |
| ZAR | South African rand | 18,2068 |
| CNY | Chinese yuan renminbi | 7,3494 |
| HRK | Croatian kuna | 7,5563 |
| IDR | Indonesian rupiah | 16 441,49 |
| MYR | Malaysian ringgit | 4,6223 |
| PHP | Philippine peso | 58,782 |
| RUB | Russian rouble | |
| THB | Thai baht | 36,827 |
| BRL | Brazilian real | 5,5113 |
| MXN | Mexican peso | 20,6884 |
| INR | Indian rupee | 86,6485 |

Currency

Exchange rate

USD

US dollar

1,0516

JPY

Japanese yen

143,33

DKK

Danish krone

7,4380

GBP

Pound sterling

0,86170

SEK

Swedish krona

10,8890

CHF

Swiss franc

0,9872

ISK

Iceland króna

148,90

NOK

Norwegian krone

10,4408

BGN

Bulgarian lev

1,9558

CZK

Czech koruna

24,316

HUF

Hungarian forint

415,08

PLN

Polish zloty

4,6975

RON

Romanian leu

4,9130

TRY

Turkish lira

19,6010

AUD

Australian dollar

1,5625

CAD

Canadian dollar

1,4326

HKD

Hong Kong dollar

8,1813

NZD

New Zealand dollar

1,6583

SGD

Singapore dollar

1,4263

KRW

South Korean won

1 386,39

ZAR

South African rand

18,2068

CNY

Chinese yuan renminbi

7,3494

HRK

Croatian kuna

7,5563

IDR

Indonesian rupiah

16 441,49

MYR

Malaysian ringgit

4,6223

PHP

Philippine peso

58,782

RUB

Russian rouble

THB

Thai baht

36,827

BRL

Brazilian real

5,5113

MXN

Mexican peso

20,6884

INR

Indian rupee

86,6485

---

(1)  Source: reference exchange rate published by the ECB.

---

| 7.12.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 466/23 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

7.12.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 466/23

---

Statement by the Commission in relation to Regulation (EU) 2022/2379 of the European Parliament and of the Council, as regards on-going work to ensure the availability in electronic format of the records to be kept by professional users of plant protection products pursuant to Article 67(1) of Regulation (EC) of the European Parliament and of the Council No 1107/2009

(2022/C 466/06)

The European Green Deal and the Farm to Fork Strategy establish a reduction in the use and risk of chemical pesticides as a key objective for the Union. In order to ensure effective and impactful policies, robust and comprehensive data on the use of pesticides at farm level is crucial. The on-going work to ensure the availability in electronic format of the records kept by professional users of plant protection products is an important enabling factor to implementing the reporting obligations on pesticides that are part of Regulation (EU) 2022/2379 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1) (SAIO).

Therefore, the Commission has prepared a draft Commission Implementing Regulation, on the basis of Article 67(4) of Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council (2), as regards the content and format of the records of the use of plant protection products to be kept by professional users in accordance with Article 67(1) of Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009.

That Implementing Regulation would, if adopted as currently foreseen, regulate the record-keeping required under Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 in detail, including by identifying the elements to be recorded by the professional users, and by ensuring that those records will be available in electronic format from 1 January 2025 at the latest.

The draft of that Implementing Regulation is currently under discussion in the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed, Section Phytopharmaceuticals - Legislation. The Commission intends to seek the opinion of the committee pursuant to Article 5 of Regulation (EU) No 182/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council (3) in the coming months.

The Commission intends to adopt that Implementing Regulation before the end of 2022.

---

(1)  Regulation (EU) 2022/2379 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 November 2022 on statistics on agricultural input and output, amending Commission Regulation (EC) No 617/2008 and repealing Regulations (EC) No 1165/2008, (EC) No 543/2009 and (EC) No 1185/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council and Council Directive 96/16/EC (OJ L 315, 7.12.2022, p. 1).

(2)  Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 21 October 2009 concerning the placing of plant protection products on the market and repealing Council Directives 79/117/EEC and 91/414/EEC (OJ L 309, 24.11.2009, p. 1).

(3)  Regulation (EU) No 182/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 February 2011 laying down the rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control by Member States of the Commission’s exercise of implementing powers (OJ L 55, 28.2.2011, p. 13).

---

| 7.12.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 466/24 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

7.12.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 466/24

---

List of organisations recognised on the basis of Regulation (EC) No 391/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 April 2009 on common rules and standards for ship inspection and survey organisations

(2022/C 466/07)

| — | American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) |
| --- | --- |

—

American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)

| — | Bureau Veritas SA (BV) |
| --- | --- |

—

Bureau Veritas SA (BV)

| — | China Classification Society (CCS) |
| --- | --- |

—

China Classification Society (CCS)

| — | Croatian Register of Shipping (CRS) |
| --- | --- |

—

Croatian Register of Shipping (CRS)

| — | DNV AS (DNV) |
| --- | --- |

—

DNV AS (DNV)

| — | Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) |
| --- | --- |

—

Indian Register of Shipping (IRS)

| — | Korean Register (KR) |
| --- | --- |

—

Korean Register (KR)

| — | Lloyd's Register Group LTD (LR) |
| --- | --- |

—

Lloyd's Register Group LTD (LR)

| — | Nippon Kaiji Kyokai General Incorporated Foundation (ClassNK) |
| --- | --- |

—

Nippon Kaiji Kyokai General Incorporated Foundation (ClassNK)

| — | Polish Register of Shipping (PRS) |
| --- | --- |

—

Polish Register of Shipping (PRS)

| — | RINA Services S.p.A. (RINA) |
| --- | --- |

—

RINA Services S.p.A. (RINA)

---

European Data Protection Supervisor

| 7.12.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 466/25 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

7.12.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 466/25

---

Summary of the Opinion of the European Data Protection Supervisor on the Proposal for a Council Regulation amending Regulation (EU) No 389/2012 as regards the exchange of information maintained in the electronic registers concerning economic operators who move excise goods between Member States for commercial purposes

(2022/C 466/08)

(The full text of this Opinion can be found in English, French and German on the EDPS website https://edps.europa.eu)

The EDPS notes that the draft Proposal would introduce the following amendments to Council Regulation EU (No) 389/2012 (1):

| — | according to the new Article 19(4), the information contained in the national registers concerning all economic operators engaged in movements of excise goods as referred to in Chapter IV, and Chapter V, Section 2, of Council Directive (EU) 2020/262 (2) shall be automatically exchanged via a central register; |
| --- | --- |

—

according to the new Article 19(4), the information contained in the national registers concerning all economic operators engaged in movements of excise goods as referred to in Chapter IV, and Chapter V, Section 2, of Council Directive (EU) 2020/262 (2) shall be automatically exchanged via a central register;

| — | according to the new Article 20(1), the Commission must ensure that all persons involved in the movement of excise goods can obtain confirmation by electronic means of the validity of excise numbers held in the central register. |
| --- | --- |

—

according to the new Article 20(1), the Commission must ensure that all persons involved in the movement of excise goods can obtain confirmation by electronic means of the validity of excise numbers held in the central register.

The EDPS considers that these amendments do not raise significant data protection issues, notably since the information to be provided in the context of administrative cooperation in the field of excise duties are not modified by the proposed amendments.

The EDPS also notes that the proposed amendments would not impact on the already established means for the processing of personal data in the context of Council Regulation EU (No) 389/2012.

1.   INTRODUCTION

| 1. | On 24 October 2022 the European Commission adopted the Proposal for a Council Regulation amending Regulation (EU) No 389/2012 as regards the exchange of information maintained in the electronic registers concerning economic operators who move excise goods between Member States for commercial purposes (‘the Proposal’). |
| --- | --- |

1.

| 2. | The objective of the Proposal according to the explanatory memorandum is to introduce the obligations of Member States regarding the exchange of data of economic operators moving goods under Chapter V, section 2 of Directive (EU) 2020/262 maintained in the national registers with the central register, enabling full exchange of information and reducing the administrative burden on economic operators as well as the risk of fraud and improving the administrative cooperation between the competent authorities of the Member States.
  To achieve these objectives, the Proposal seeks to align the procedure of exchanging the data of economic operators moving goods under Duty Suspension with the exchange of data of the economic operators moving goods under Duty Paid. This alignment will contribute to the digitalisation of the monitoring of movements of excise goods released for consumption in the territory of one Member State and moved to the territory of another Member State in order to be delivered there for commercial purposes and improve the fight against tax fraud, according to the explanatory memorandum. |
| --- | --- |

2.

To achieve these objectives, the Proposal seeks to align the procedure of exchanging the data of economic operators moving goods under Duty Suspension with the exchange of data of the economic operators moving goods under Duty Paid. This alignment will contribute to the digitalisation of the monitoring of movements of excise goods released for consumption in the territory of one Member State and moved to the territory of another Member State in order to be delivered there for commercial purposes and improve the fight against tax fraud, according to the explanatory memorandum.

| 3. | In accordance with Article 36 of Council Directive (EU) 2020/262, as from 13 February 2023 all intra-EU movements of excise goods released for consumption in one Member State and moved to another Member State to be delivered there for commercial purposes (so-called ‘Duty Paid movements’) will be monitored through the computerised system, that is the Excise Movement and Control System (EMCS). Until 13 February 2023, EMCS is only covering intra-EU movements of excise goods in suspension of excise duty.
  The extension of the computerised system to Duty Paid movements by Council Directive (EU) 2020/262 requires to extend also the scope of Regulation (EU) No 389/2012. |
| --- | --- |

3.

The extension of the computerised system to Duty Paid movements by Council Directive (EU) 2020/262 requires to extend also the scope of Regulation (EU) No 389/2012.

| 4. | The present Opinion of the EDPS is issued in response to a consultation by the European Commission of 26 October 2022, pursuant to Article 42(1) of EUDPR (3). The EDPS welcomes the reference to this consultation in recital (6) of the Proposal. In this regard, the EDPS also positively notes that he was already previously informally consulted pursuant to recital 60 of EUDPR. |
| --- | --- |

4.

4.   CONCLUSIONS

| 11. | In light of the above, the EDPS refrains from making any recommendations. |
| --- | --- |

11.

Brussels, 9 November 2022.

Wojciech Rafał WIEWIÓROWSKI

---

(1)  Council Regulation (EU) No 389/2012 of 2 May 2012 on administrative cooperation in the field of excise duties and repealing Regulation (EC) No 2073/2004 (OJ L 121, 8.5.2012, p. 1).

1

(2)  Council Directive (EU) 2020/262 of 19 December 2019 laying down the general arrangements for excise duty (OJ L 58, 27.2.2020, p. 4).

2

(3)  Regulation (EU) 2018/1725 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2018 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data by the Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies and on the free movement of such data, and repealing Regulation (EC) No 45/2001 and Decision No 1247/2002/EC (OJ L 295, 21.11.2018, p. 39).

3

---

NOTICES FROM MEMBER STATES

| 7.12.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 466/27 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

7.12.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 466/27

---

Information communicated by Member States regarding closure of fisheries

(2022/C 466/09)

In accordance with Article 35(3) of Council Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009 of 20 November 2009 establishing a Union control system for ensuring compliance with the rules of the common fisheries policy (1), a decision has been taken to close the fishery as set down in the following table:

| Date and time of closure | 19.11.2022 |
| --- | --- |
| Duration | 19.11.2022 — 31.12.2022 |
| Member State | Portugal |
| Stock or Group of stocks | RJU/9-C. |
| Species | Undulate ray (Raja undulata) |
| Zone | Union waters of 9 |
| Type(s) of fishing vessels | — |
| Reference number | 12/TQ109 |

Date and time of closure

19.11.2022

Duration

19.11.2022 — 31.12.2022

Member State

Portugal

Stock or Group of stocks

RJU/9-C.

Species

Undulate ray (Raja undulata)

Zone

Union waters of 9

Type(s) of fishing vessels

—

Reference number

12/TQ109

---

(1)  OJ L 343, 22.12.2009, p. 1

---

V Announcements

PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY

European Commission

| 7.12.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 466/28 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

7.12.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 466/28

---

Prior notification of a concentration

(Case M.10837 – ASTARA WESTERN EUROPE / MITSUBISHI CORPORATION / ISUZU MOTORS LIMITED / ISUZU SALES DEUTSCHLAND)

Candidate case for simplified procedure

(Text with EEA relevance)

(2022/C 466/10)

1.

This notification concerns the following undertakings:

| — | Astara Western Europe N.V. (Belgium), |
| --- | --- |

—

Astara Western Europe N.V. (Belgium),

| — | Mitsubishi Corporation (Japan), |
| --- | --- |

—

Mitsubishi Corporation (Japan),

| — | Isuzu Motors Limited (‘Isuzu’, Japan), |
| --- | --- |

—

Isuzu Motors Limited (‘Isuzu’, Japan),

| — | Isuzu Sales Deutschland GmbH (Germany), a joint venture currently controlled by Mitsubishi Corporation and Isuzu. |
| --- | --- |

—

Isuzu Sales Deutschland GmbH (Germany), a joint venture currently controlled by Mitsubishi Corporation and Isuzu.

Astara Western Europe, Mitsubishi Corporation and Isuzu will acquire within the meaning of Article 3(1)(b) of the Merger Regulation joint control of the whole of Isuzu Sales Deutschland.

The concentration is accomplished by way of purchase of shares.

2.

| — | Astara Western Europe is active in import and wholesale distribution of four wheel motorvehicles, |
| --- | --- |

—

Astara Western Europe is active in import and wholesale distribution of four wheel motorvehicles,

| — | Mitsubishi Corporation is active across several industries, including industrial finance, energy, metals, machinery, chemicals, food and environment and the distribution of motor vehicles, |
| --- | --- |

—

Mitsubishi Corporation is active across several industries, including industrial finance, energy, metals, machinery, chemicals, food and environment and the distribution of motor vehicles,

| — | Isuzu is active in the manufacture and distribution of motor vehicles, |
| --- | --- |

—

Isuzu is active in the manufacture and distribution of motor vehicles,

| — | Isuzu Sales Deutschland active in the import and distribution of new light weight commercial vehicles and related spare parts and accessories. |
| --- | --- |

—

Isuzu Sales Deutschland active in the import and distribution of new light weight commercial vehicles and related spare parts and accessories.

3.

Pursuant to the Commission Notice on a simplified procedure for treatment of certain concentrations under Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 (2) it should be noted that this case is a candidate for treatment under the procedure set out in the Notice.

4.

Observations must reach the Commission not later than 10 days following the date of this publication. The following reference should always be specified:

M.10837 – ASTARA WESTERN EUROPE / MITSUBISHI CORPORATION / ISUZU MOTORS LIMITED / ISUZU SALES DEUTSCHLAND

Observations can be sent to the Commission by email, by fax, or by post. Please use the contact details below:

Email: COMP-MERGER-REGISTRY@ec.europa.eu

Fax +32 22964301

Postal address:

| European Commission |
| --- |
| Directorate-General for Competition |
| Merger Registry |
| 1049 Bruxelles/Brussel |
| BELGIQUE/BELGIË |

European Commission

Directorate-General for Competition

Merger Registry

1049 Bruxelles/Brussel

BELGIQUE/BELGIË

---

(1)  OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1 (the ‘Merger Regulation’).

1

(2)  OJ C 366, 14.12.2013, p. 5.

2

---

OTHER ACTS

European Commission

| 7.12.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 466/30 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

7.12.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 466/30

---

Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to a product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33

(2022/C 466/11)

This communication is published in accordance with Article 17(5) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 (1).

COMMUNICATING THE APPROVAL OF A STANDARD AMENDMENT

‘Pouilly-Fumé’ / ‘Blanc Fumé de Pouilly’

PDO-FR-A0824-AM01

Date of communication: 23.9.2022

DESCRIPTION OF AND REASONS FOR THE APPROVED AMENDMENT

1.   Official Geographic Code

The municipalities making up the geographical area and the area in immediate proximity have been updated in line with the Code officiel géographique [Official Geographical Code].

The boundary of the area remains the same.

Points 6 and 9 of the single document have been amended.

2.   Pruning

In the specification it has been clarified that the vines are pruned before the phenological stage corresponding to 2 or 3 unfolded leaves or stage 9 on the Eichhorn and Lorenz scale.

The amendment has been made to define more clearly the checks to be carried out. Specifying the stage at which pruning must be completed ensures that all operators share precise expectations and that the checks can be carried out under the best possible conditions.

Point 5 of the single document has been amended.

3.   Trellising

In the specification it has been clarified that trellising is done before the phenological stage corresponding to the closure of the bunch, or stage 32 on the Eichhorn and Lorenz scale. The trellising method is specified:

| ‘— | It consists of at least two lifting wires and a load-bearing wire for vines pruned to single Guyot or cordon de Royat or two lifting wires for vines pruned to goblet or fan. |
| --- | --- |

‘—

It consists of at least two lifting wires and a load-bearing wire for vines pruned to single Guyot or cordon de Royat or two lifting wires for vines pruned to goblet or fan.

| — | The lifting wires will be lifted above the level of the bunches. |
| --- | --- |

—

The lifting wires will be lifted above the level of the bunches.

| — | The trellised foliage must reach a height of at least 0,6 times the distance between the rows, with the height being measured from a point 0,10 m below the trellising wire to the vegetation height.’ |
| --- | --- |

—

The trellised foliage must reach a height of at least 0,6 times the distance between the rows, with the height being measured from a point 0,10 m below the trellising wire to the vegetation height.’

The amendment has been made to define more clearly the checks to be carried out. Operators are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit permanent staff in the vineyards and instead use service providers who are not necessarily specialised in wine-growing. The detailed information on trellising provided in the specification is also intended to be educational and to explain what is expected. It also makes it possible to specify the conditions that will enable the production of quality grapes, which are the guarantee of the raw material’s quality basis.

The single document has not been amended.

4.   Agro-ecological provisions

A statement that the producer pays particular attention to erosion problems has been added.

Climate-related hazards (in particular heavy rainfall) can cause erosion or create gullies in these vineyards partly situated on steep slopes. This addition makes it possible to raise producers’ awareness of this risk while at the same time facilitating checks in the event of failure to take it into account.

The following agro-ecological provisions are added:

| ‘— | Any substantial alteration of the morphology of the subsoil, topsoil or elements guaranteeing the integrity and sustainability of the soils of a parcel intended for the production of the protected designation of origin is prohibited, with the exception of ordinary trench ploughing.
  Permanent grass cover is required along parcel boundaries (headlands and areas between parcels not planted or cultivated). This requirement does not apply to headlands being restored, in particular following erosion or exceptional climatic events. |
| --- | --- |

‘—

Any substantial alteration of the morphology of the subsoil, topsoil or elements guaranteeing the integrity and sustainability of the soils of a parcel intended for the production of the protected designation of origin is prohibited, with the exception of ordinary trench ploughing.

Permanent grass cover is required along parcel boundaries (headlands and areas between parcels not planted or cultivated). This requirement does not apply to headlands being restored, in particular following erosion or exceptional climatic events.

| — | Chemical weed control of the parcel is prohibited on a minimum of 25 % of the area between the rows. |
| --- | --- |

—

Chemical weed control of the parcel is prohibited on a minimum of 25 % of the area between the rows.

| — | Chemical weed control of the parcel is prohibited between the phenological stage corresponding to the onset of ripening, or stage 36 on the Eichhorn and Lorenz scale, and 1 February of the year following the harvest.’ |
| --- | --- |

—

Chemical weed control of the parcel is prohibited between the phenological stage corresponding to the onset of ripening, or stage 36 on the Eichhorn and Lorenz scale, and 1 February of the year following the harvest.’

These changes are made in order to take better account of the environment.

Grass cover on the headlands was included in the specification. The wording has been amended in order to harmonise the specifications.

In order to limit the use of herbicides, two provisions are included: the prohibition of full weed control on a minimum part of the area between rows that has not been subjected to chemical weed control, and the prohibition of chemical weed control in autumn or winter.

The single document has not been amended.

5.   Irrigation

The irrigation ban is lifted.

Irrigation remains prohibited between 1 May and the time of the harvest.

The single document has not been amended.

6.   Analytical standards

It has been specified that batches ready to be marketed in bulk or at the packaging stage have a volatile acid content not exceeding 14,5 milliequivalents per litre.

This limit follows the multiannual study of the values of PDO wines. It ensures the quality of the wines produced and safeguards the typical characteristics of the PDO.

Batches ready to be marketed in bulk or at the packaging stage have a total SO2 content not exceeding 150 mg per litre.

This provision aims to reduce inputs while preserving the quality of the wines.

Point 4 of the single document has been amended.

7.   Thermal regulation of vats

A requirement for winemaking tanks of more than 30 hl to have a thermal regulation system has been introduced.

This formalises the customs and quality practices associated with the thermal regulation of white wines.

The single document has not been amended.

8.   Prohibited equipment

To safeguard quality, the following materials are prohibited:

| — | horizontal basket presses with chains and plates; |
| --- | --- |

—

horizontal basket presses with chains and plates;

| — | self-emptying trailers with centrifugal vane pumps. |
| --- | --- |

—

self-emptying trailers with centrifugal vane pumps.

Better quality materials are already used within the PDO. The amended product specification helps ensure these practices are followed.

The single document has not been amended.

9.   Fermenting room capacity

The fermenting room capacity is increased from 1,4 to 1,6 times the volume of wine produced from the basic yield.

This provision makes it possible to regulate the volume of wine taken from the winery and placed on the market in order to limit the risk of price decreases, in particular before the harvest.

The single document has not been amended.

10.   Circulation between authorised warehouses

Point IX(4)(b) of Chapter 1 concerning the date from which wines can be circulated between authorised warehouses has been deleted.

The single document has not been amended.

11.   Obligation to declare

A production waiver declaration and a declaration of dead and lost vines have been added.

Both declarations will facilitate checks on production conditions.

The deadline for submitting the claim declaration has been changed from 25 November to 10 December.

The deadline for submitting the claim declaration is thus the same as the deadline for submitting the harvest declaration.

The single document has not been amended.

12.   Main points to be checked

Chapter 3 has been updated to harmonise the wording of the main points to be checked in specifications for products from the Val de Loire area.

The single document has not been amended.

13.   Reference to the inspection body

The reference to the inspection body has been reworded to align it with the wording of other product specifications. This is a purely editorial amendment.

The single document has not been amended.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

1.   Name(s)

Pouilly-Fumé

Blanc Fumé de Pouilly

2.   Geographical indication type

PDO – Protected Designation of Origin

3.   Categories of grapevine products

| 1. | Wine |
| --- | --- |

1.

Wine

4.   Description of the wine(s)

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

These are still white wines with the following analytical characteristics: Minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume: 10,5 % – for batches ready to be marketed in bulk or at the packaging stage: a fermentable sugar (glucose and fructose) content not exceeding 4 g/l. After enrichment, the wines’ total alcoholic strength by volume must not exceed 13 %; the volatile acid content must not exceed 14,5 milliequivalents per litre; and the total SO2 content must not exceed 150 mg per litre.

The total acidity levels are as laid down in EU legislation. The wines are dry still white wines with a colour ranging from pale yellow to gold. The aromatic palette may have fruity notes, reminiscent of citrus fruits, floral notes reminiscent of white flowers, varietal notes and minerality. These wines are complex, refined and full bodied, with a fresh character.

| General analytical characteristics |
| --- |
| Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum total acidity | |
| Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre) | |
| Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre) | |

General analytical characteristics

Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)

Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume)

Minimum total acidity

Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)

Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

5.   Wine-making practices

5.1.   Specific oenological practices

1.   Specific oenological practice

Any heat treatment of the grape harvest at a temperature above 40 °C is prohibited if followed by an immediate separation of liquids and solids. Use of wood chips is prohibited. After enrichment, the wines’ total alcoholic strength by volume must not exceed 13 %. Besides the above provisions, the oenological practices adopted for the wines must comply with the obligations laid down by EU legislation and by the Rural and Fisheries Code.

2.   Cultivation method

Training systems

| a) | Planting density. The minimum vine planting density is 6 000 plants per hectare. The distance between the rows of vines is up to 1,30 metres and the spacing between plants in the same row is between 0,80 metres and 1,20 metres. |
| --- | --- |

a)

Planting density. The minimum vine planting density is 6 000 plants per hectare. The distance between the rows of vines is up to 1,30 metres and the spacing between plants in the same row is between 0,80 metres and 1,20 metres.

| b) | Pruning rules. The vines are pruned before the phenological stage corresponding to 2 or 3 unfolded leaves or stage 9 on the Eichhorn and Lorenz scale, using the following techniques: single Guyot pruning with a maximum of 10 count buds per plant, of which no more than 8 on the cane, and 1 or 2 spurs with a maximum of 2 buds each; or spur pruning (cordon de Royat) with a maximum of 14 buds per plant, a single or double frame with a maximum of 2 buds on each spur. The period for establishing the cordon is limited to four years. During this period, pruning to single or double Guyot is permitted with a maximum of 8 buds on each cane. The rejuvenation of a vineyard parcel pruned according to the ‘cordon de Royat’ method may not exceed 20 % of the existing plants per year. |
| --- | --- |

b)

Pruning rules. The vines are pruned before the phenological stage corresponding to 2 or 3 unfolded leaves or stage 9 on the Eichhorn and Lorenz scale, using the following techniques: single Guyot pruning with a maximum of 10 count buds per plant, of which no more than 8 on the cane, and 1 or 2 spurs with a maximum of 2 buds each; or spur pruning (cordon de Royat) with a maximum of 14 buds per plant, a single or double frame with a maximum of 2 buds on each spur. The period for establishing the cordon is limited to four years. During this period, pruning to single or double Guyot is permitted with a maximum of 8 buds on each cane. The rejuvenation of a vineyard parcel pruned according to the ‘cordon de Royat’ method may not exceed 20 % of the existing plants per year.

5.2.   Maximum yields

| 1. | 75 hectolitres per hectare |
| --- | --- |

1.

75 hectolitres per hectare

6.   Demarcated geographical area

The grapes are harvested and the wines made and developed in the following municipalities in the Department of Nièvre: Garchy, Mesves-sur-Loire, Pouilly-sur-Loire, Saint-Andelain, Saint-Laurent-l’Abbaye, Saint-Martin-sur-Nohain, Tracy-sur-Loire (list drawn up on the basis of the Official Geographical Code for 2020).

7.   Wine grape variety(-ies)

Sauvignon B – Sauvignon Blanc

8.   Description of the link(s)

| a) | Description of the natural factors contributing to the link. Stretching over some 20 kilometres along the right bank of the Loire, the geographical area borders the south-east of the Paris Basin. Peaking at 270 metres, i.e. more than 100 metres above the valley, it offers a highly contrasting landscape with deep parallel depressions running north-east/south-west that open on the lower Loire Valley.
  The vineyards are located in seven municipalities around the Saint-Andelain hilltop, which is the highest peak of the geographical area.
  They rest on a variety of geological formations, and the demarcated parcels selected for harvesting the grapes reflect this diversity. Preference is given in particular to: – The kimmeridgian marl, or ‘white soil’, that characterises the central part of the geographical area, in the municipalities of Pouilly-sur-Loire and Saint-Andelain: these are the most widely represented wine-growing soils. – The limestone of the Oxfordian stage, which has produced soils with a high stone content, known locally as ‘caillottes’: they are concentrated in the north-east of the geographical area. – The flint-rich, more or less clayey soils (‘silex’) that formed during the highly erosive phase of the Cretaceous period, which are found mainly in the territory of the municipality of Saint-Andelain. – The siliceous, more or less clayey soils found mainly at the western edge of the geographical area, in the municipality of Tracy-sur-Loire.
  The geographical area enjoys a semi-maritime climate. The average annual rainfall is 600 mm, and the Loire plays a leading role as a heat regulator by draining the cold air from the perpendicular valleys. |
| --- | --- |

a)

Description of the natural factors contributing to the link. Stretching over some 20 kilometres along the right bank of the Loire, the geographical area borders the south-east of the Paris Basin. Peaking at 270 metres, i.e. more than 100 metres above the valley, it offers a highly contrasting landscape with deep parallel depressions running north-east/south-west that open on the lower Loire Valley.

The vineyards are located in seven municipalities around the Saint-Andelain hilltop, which is the highest peak of the geographical area.

They rest on a variety of geological formations, and the demarcated parcels selected for harvesting the grapes reflect this diversity. Preference is given in particular to: – The kimmeridgian marl, or ‘white soil’, that characterises the central part of the geographical area, in the municipalities of Pouilly-sur-Loire and Saint-Andelain: these are the most widely represented wine-growing soils. – The limestone of the Oxfordian stage, which has produced soils with a high stone content, known locally as ‘caillottes’: they are concentrated in the north-east of the geographical area. – The flint-rich, more or less clayey soils (‘silex’) that formed during the highly erosive phase of the Cretaceous period, which are found mainly in the territory of the municipality of Saint-Andelain. – The siliceous, more or less clayey soils found mainly at the western edge of the geographical area, in the municipality of Tracy-sur-Loire.

The geographical area enjoys a semi-maritime climate. The average annual rainfall is 600 mm, and the Loire plays a leading role as a heat regulator by draining the cold air from the perpendicular valleys.

| b) | Description of the human factors contributing to the link. Early wine-growing can be traced back to the 5th century and the existence of a Gallo-Roman estate by the name of ‘Pauliacum’. In 680, Bishop Vigilius left his estate of Pouilly and its vines to the Abbey of Notre-Dame-d’Auxerre. The Roman road dating back to this time crosses the geographical area, providing evidence of the area’s long history of commercial activity.
  At the time, the vineyards enjoyed real growth thanks to monastic congregations, in particular the Benedictine monks of Charité-sur-Loire. On one of the slopes overlooking the Loire, a plot of approximately four hectares called ‘Loge aux Moines’ testifies to this period of expansion.
  From the 16th century on, the Loire and its boats facilitated the distribution of wines, and following the opening of the Briare Canal in 1642, linking the Loire to the Seine, much of this trade was directed toward Paris. ‘Pouilly’ wines then started arriving in England, having been traded at the Foires de Rouen. The Saint Vincent winegrowers’ associations (‘confréries vigneronnes’) were founded at the end of the 17th century.
  Throughout the 18th century, ‘Pouilly’ wine was shipped to Montargis, Fontainebleau, Paris and Versailles. The vineyards, which covered 2 000 hectares, were planted with various grape varieties: Melon B, Meslier Saint-François B, Sauvignon B and Chasselas B.
  The second half of the 19th century was marked by a significant shift from wine production to production of table grapes (Chasselas B), shipped by rail to the poorly supplied Paris market, until the phylloxera crisis of 1890.
  At the beginning of the 20th century, the Sauvignon B variety, known locally as ‘blanc fumé’ because, when ripe, the grape grains are covered with a grey bloom the colour of smoke, quickly became the main grape variety grown in the vineyards.
  In 1923, a judgment recognised the use of the name ‘Pouilly-Fumé’ for wines made from the Sauvignon B variety. The producers subsequently organised themselves, establishing the cooperative cellar of Pouilly in 1948, followed by the Confrérie des ‘Baillis’, whose aim was to raise awareness of ‘Pouilly’ wines. Since then, much of the production has been marketed domestically and exported to more than 90 countries.
  In 2009, production amounted to approximately 59 000 hectolitres from a total of 1 220 hectares of vineyards operated mainly by family businesses. |
| --- | --- |

b)

Description of the human factors contributing to the link. Early wine-growing can be traced back to the 5th century and the existence of a Gallo-Roman estate by the name of ‘Pauliacum’. In 680, Bishop Vigilius left his estate of Pouilly and its vines to the Abbey of Notre-Dame-d’Auxerre. The Roman road dating back to this time crosses the geographical area, providing evidence of the area’s long history of commercial activity.

At the time, the vineyards enjoyed real growth thanks to monastic congregations, in particular the Benedictine monks of Charité-sur-Loire. On one of the slopes overlooking the Loire, a plot of approximately four hectares called ‘Loge aux Moines’ testifies to this period of expansion.

From the 16th century on, the Loire and its boats facilitated the distribution of wines, and following the opening of the Briare Canal in 1642, linking the Loire to the Seine, much of this trade was directed toward Paris. ‘Pouilly’ wines then started arriving in England, having been traded at the Foires de Rouen. The Saint Vincent winegrowers’ associations (‘confréries vigneronnes’) were founded at the end of the 17th century.

Throughout the 18th century, ‘Pouilly’ wine was shipped to Montargis, Fontainebleau, Paris and Versailles. The vineyards, which covered 2 000 hectares, were planted with various grape varieties: Melon B, Meslier Saint-François B, Sauvignon B and Chasselas B.

The second half of the 19th century was marked by a significant shift from wine production to production of table grapes (Chasselas B), shipped by rail to the poorly supplied Paris market, until the phylloxera crisis of 1890.

At the beginning of the 20th century, the Sauvignon B variety, known locally as ‘blanc fumé’ because, when ripe, the grape grains are covered with a grey bloom the colour of smoke, quickly became the main grape variety grown in the vineyards.

In 1923, a judgment recognised the use of the name ‘Pouilly-Fumé’ for wines made from the Sauvignon B variety. The producers subsequently organised themselves, establishing the cooperative cellar of Pouilly in 1948, followed by the Confrérie des ‘Baillis’, whose aim was to raise awareness of ‘Pouilly’ wines. Since then, much of the production has been marketed domestically and exported to more than 90 countries.

In 2009, production amounted to approximately 59 000 hectolitres from a total of 1 220 hectares of vineyards operated mainly by family businesses.

The wines are dry still white wines with a colour ranging from pale yellow to gold.

The aromatic palette may have fruity notes, reminiscent of citrus fruits, floral notes reminiscent of white flowers, varietal notes and minerality. These wines are complex, refined and full bodied, with a fresh character. The combination of a semi-maritime climate, a location protected from the westerly winds and proximity to the Loire, which acts as a temperature regulator, gives this geographical area excellent climatic conditions for the cultivation of the Sauvignon B variety.

The resulting mild temperatures during the growing cycle of the vine ensure that the grapes ripen evenly, while the alternation of hot days and cool nights throughout the ripening period of the grapes develop the aromas of the wines and preserve their freshness.

This region, which has undergone profound changes over the centuries, has always maintained its wine-growing traditions. Areas with high quality potential, where for centuries vines were preferred to other crops, remain devoted to wine-growing.

These customs are reflected in the demarcated parcel area, which is confined to parcels with shallow soils, often on a steep slope. In these conditions, plants and their production potential need to be extremely well managed by means of high planting density, vine training and rigorous pruning. These techniques illustrate the ancestral know-how of a human community committed to its wine-growing traditions and landscape, as indicated by the continued existence of the winegrowers’ associations founded in the 17th century.

This know-how is also reflected in the ability of the winemaker, built up over generations, to bring out the originality and richness of the natural environment: powerful wines with hints of citrus on the ‘white soils’, elegant wines with notes of white flowers on the ‘caillottes’, fresh wines with a mineral and fresh finish on the ‘silex’.

9.   Essential further conditions (packaging, labelling, other requirements)

Area in immediate proximity

Legal framework

National legislation

Type of further condition

Derogation concerning production in the demarcated geographical area

Description of the condition

The area in immediate proximity, defined by derogation for the production of wines, comprises the territory of the following municipalities, on the basis of the 2020 Official Geographical Code:

| — | Department of Cher: Bannay, Bué, Crézancy-en-Sancerre, Jalognes, Menetou-Râtel, Ménétreol-sous-Sancerre, Montigny, Neuvy-Deux-Clochers, Saint-Satur, Sainte-Gemme-en-Sancerrois, Sancerre, Sury-en-Vaux, Thauvenay, Veaugues, Verdigny and Vinon. |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Cher: Bannay, Bué, Crézancy-en-Sancerre, Jalognes, Menetou-Râtel, Ménétreol-sous-Sancerre, Montigny, Neuvy-Deux-Clochers, Saint-Satur, Sainte-Gemme-en-Sancerrois, Sancerre, Sury-en-Vaux, Thauvenay, Veaugues, Verdigny and Vinon.

| — | Department of Loiret: Beaulieu-sur-Loire, Bonny-sur-Loire, Briare, Gien, Ousson-sur-Loire, Saint-Brisson-sur-Loire and Thou. |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Loiret: Beaulieu-sur-Loire, Bonny-sur-Loire, Briare, Gien, Ousson-sur-Loire, Saint-Brisson-sur-Loire and Thou.

| — | Department of Nièvre: Alligny-Cosne, Bulcy, Cosne-Cours-sur-Loire, La Celle-sur-Loire, Myennes, Neuvy-sur-Loire, Pougny, Saint-Loup and Saint-Père. |
| --- | --- |

—

Department of Nièvre: Alligny-Cosne, Bulcy, Cosne-Cours-sur-Loire, La Celle-sur-Loire, Myennes, Neuvy-sur-Loire, Pougny, Saint-Loup and Saint-Père.

Legal framework

National legislation

Type of further condition

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the condition

All optional information is printed on the labels in letters that may not be larger, in height, width or thickness, than double the size of the letters forming the name of the controlled designation of origin.

The size of the letters of the supplementary geographical name ‘Val de Loire’ may not be larger, either in height or width, than two-thirds of the size of the letters forming the name of the controlled designation of origin.

Wines with the designation of origin may specify on their labels the name of a smaller geographical unit, provided that:

| — | it appears in the land registry; |
| --- | --- |

—

it appears in the land registry;

| — | the name appears on the harvest declaration. |
| --- | --- |

—

the name appears on the harvest declaration.

Link to the product specification

https://info.agriculture.gouv.fr/gedei/site/bo-agri/document_administratif-c8e782e2-9df9-46eb-b243-3eff89c512ec

---

(1)  OJ L 9, 11.1.2019, p. 2.

---

| 7.12.2022 | EN | Official Journal of the European Union | C 466/37 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

7.12.2022

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

C 466/37

---

Publication of a communication of approval of a standard amendment to a product specification for a name in the wine sector referred to in Article 17(2) and (3) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33

(2022/C 466/12)

This communication is published in accordance with Article 17(5) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/33 (1).

COMMUNICATING THE APPROVAL OF A STANDARD AMENDMENT

‘Pouilly-sur-Loire’

PDO-FR-A0825-AM01

Date of communication: 23.9.2022

DESCRIPTION OF AND REASONS FOR THE APPROVED AMENDMENT

1.   Official Geographic Code

The municipalities making up the geographical area and the area in immediate proximity have been updated in line with the Code officiel géographique [Official Geographical Code].

The boundary of the area remains the same.

Points 6 and 9 of the single document have been amended.

2.   Pruning

In the specification it has been clarified that the vines are pruned before the phenological stage corresponding to 2 or 3 unfolded leaves or stage 9 on the Eichhorn and Lorenz scale.

The amendment has been made to define more clearly the checks to be carried out. Specifying the stage at which pruning must be completed ensures that all operators share precise expectations and that the checks can be carried out under the best possible conditions.

Point 5 of the single document has been amended.

3.   Trellising

In the specification it has been clarified that trellising is done before the phenological stage corresponding to the closure of the bunch, or stage 32 on the Eichhorn and Lorenz scale. The trellising method is specified:

| ‘— | It consists of at least two lifting wires and a load-bearing wire for vines pruned to single Guyot or cordon de Royat or two lifting wires for vines pruned to goblet or fan. |
| --- | --- |

‘—

It consists of at least two lifting wires and a load-bearing wire for vines pruned to single Guyot or cordon de Royat or two lifting wires for vines pruned to goblet or fan.

| — | The lifting wires will be lifted above the level of the bunches. |
| --- | --- |

—

The lifting wires will be lifted above the level of the bunches.

| — | The trellised foliage must reach a height of at least 0,6 times the distance between the rows, with the height being measured from a point 0,10 m below the trellising wire to the vegetation height.’ |
| --- | --- |

—

The trellised foliage must reach a height of at least 0,6 times the distance between the rows, with the height being measured from a point 0,10 m below the trellising wire to the vegetation height.’

The amendment has been made to define more clearly the checks to be carried out. Operators are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit permanent staff in the vineyards and instead use service providers who are not necessarily specialised in wine-growing. The detailed information on trellising provided in the specification is also intended to be educational and to explain what is expected. It also makes it possible to specify the conditions that will enable the production of quality grapes, which are the guarantee of the raw material’s quality basis.

The single document has not been amended.

4.   Agro-ecological provisions

A statement that the producer pays particular attention to erosion problems has been added.

Climate-related hazards (in particular heavy rainfall) can cause erosion or create gullies in these vineyards partly situated on steep slopes. This addition makes it possible to raise producers’ awareness of this risk while at the same time facilitating checks in the event of failure to take it into account.

The following agro-ecological provisions are added:

| ‘— | Any substantial alteration of the morphology of the subsoil, topsoil or elements guaranteeing the integrity and sustainability of the soils of a parcel intended for the production of the protected designation of origin is prohibited, with the exception of ordinary trench ploughing.
  Permanent grass cover is required along parcel boundaries: headlands and areas between parcels not planted or cultivated. This requirement does not apply to headlands being restored, in particular following erosion or exceptional climatic events. |
| --- | --- |

‘—

Any substantial alteration of the morphology of the subsoil, topsoil or elements guaranteeing the integrity and sustainability of the soils of a parcel intended for the production of the protected designation of origin is prohibited, with the exception of ordinary trench ploughing.

Permanent grass cover is required along parcel boundaries: headlands and areas between parcels not planted or cultivated. This requirement does not apply to headlands being restored, in particular following erosion or exceptional climatic events.

| — | Chemical weed control of the parcel is prohibited on a minimum of 25 % of the area between the rows. |
| --- | --- |

—

Chemical weed control of the parcel is prohibited on a minimum of 25 % of the area between the rows.

| — | Chemical weed control of the parcel is prohibited between the phenological stage corresponding to the onset of ripening, or stage 36 on the Eichhorn and Lorenz scale, and 1 February of the year following the harvest.’ |
| --- | --- |

—

Chemical weed control of the parcel is prohibited between the phenological stage corresponding to the onset of ripening, or stage 36 on the Eichhorn and Lorenz scale, and 1 February of the year following the harvest.’

These changes are made in order to take better account of the environment.

Grass cover on the headlands was included in the specification. The wording has been amended in order to harmonise the specifications.

In order to limit the use of herbicides, two provisions are included: the prohibition of full weed control on a minimum part of the area between rows that has not been subjected to chemical weed control, and the prohibition of chemical weed control in autumn or winter.

The single document has not been amended.

5.   Irrigation

The irrigation ban is lifted.

Irrigation remains prohibited between 1 May and the time of the harvest.

The single document has not been amended.

6.   Analytical standards

It has been specified that batches ready to be marketed in bulk or at the packaging stage have a volatile acid content not exceeding 14,5 milliequivalents per litre.

This limit follows the multiannual study of the values of PDO wines. It ensures the quality of the wines produced and safeguards the typical characteristics of the PDO.

Batches ready to be marketed in bulk or at the packaging stage have a total SO2 content not exceeding 150 mg per litre.

This provision aims to reduce inputs while preserving the quality of the wines.

Point 4 of the single document has been amended.

7.   Thermal regulation of vats

A requirement for winemaking tanks of more than 30 hl to have a thermal regulation system has been introduced.

This formalises the customs and quality practices associated with the thermal regulation of white wines.

The single document has not been amended.

8.   Prohibited equipment

To safeguard quality, the following materials have been prohibited:

| — | horizontal basket presses with chains and plates; |
| --- | --- |

—

horizontal basket presses with chains and plates;

| — | self-emptying trailers with centrifugal vane pumps. |
| --- | --- |

—

self-emptying trailers with centrifugal vane pumps.

Better quality materials are already used within the PDO. The amended product specification helps ensure these practices are followed.

The single document has not been amended.

9.   Fermenting room capacity

The fermenting room capacity is increased from 1,4 to 1,6 times the volume of wine produced from the basic yield.

This provision makes it possible to regulate the volume of wine taken from the winery and placed on the market in order to limit the risk of price decreases, in particular before the harvest.

The single document has not been amended.

10.   Circulation between authorised warehouses

Point IX(4)(b) of Chapter 1 concerning the date from which wines can be circulated between authorised warehouses has been deleted.

The single document has not been amended.

11.   Declaration requirements

A production waiver declaration and a declaration of dead and lost vines have been added.

Both declarations will facilitate checks on production conditions.

The deadline for submitting the claim declaration has been changed from 25 November to 10 December.

The deadline for submitting the claim declaration is thus the same as the deadline for submitting the harvest declaration.

The single document has not been amended.

12.   Main points for checking

Chapter 3 has been updated to harmonise the wording of the main points to be checked in specifications for products from the Val de Loire area.

The single document has not been amended.

13.   Reference to the inspection body

The reference to the inspection body has been reworded to align it with the wording of other product specifications. This is a purely editorial amendment.

The single document has not been amended.

SINGLE DOCUMENT

1.   Name(s)

Pouilly-sur-Loire

2.   Geographical indication type

PDO – Protected Designation of Origin

3.   Categories of grapevine products

| 1. | Wine |
| --- | --- |

1.

4.   Description of the wine(s)

BRIEF WRITTEN DESCRIPTION

These are still white wines with the following characteristics: Minimum natural alcoholic strength by volume: 9,5 % – for batches ready to be marketed in bulk or at the packaging stage: a fermentable sugar (glucose and fructose) content not exceeding 4 g/l. After enrichment, the wines’ total alcoholic strength by volume must not exceed 12 %. The total acidity levels are as laid down in EU legislation.

Batches ready to be marketed in bulk or at the packaging stage have a volatile acid content not exceeding 14,5 milliequivalents per litre.

Batches ready to be marketed in bulk or at the packaging stage have a total SO2 content not exceeding 150 mg per litre.

The wines are dry still white wines with a colour ranging from pale yellow to gold. They are lively, bold and refreshing. They often have mineral notes and notes of white flowers and dried fruit, with a certain roundness.

| General analytical characteristics |
| --- |
| Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume) | |
| Minimum total acidity | |
| Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre) | |
| Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre) | |

General analytical characteristics

Maximum total alcoholic strength (in % volume)

Minimum actual alcoholic strength (in % volume)

Minimum total acidity

Maximum volatile acidity (in milliequivalents per litre)

Maximum total sulphur dioxide (in milligrams per litre)

5.   Wine-making practices

5.1.   Specific oenological practices

1.   Specific oenological practice

Any heat treatment of the grape harvest at a temperature above 40 °C is prohibited if followed by an immediate separation of liquids and solids. Use of wood chips is prohibited. After enrichment, the wines’ total alcoholic strength by volume must not exceed 12 %. Besides the above provisions, the oenological practices adopted for the wines must comply with the obligations laid down by EU legislation and by the Rural and Fisheries Code.

2.   Cultivation method

Training systems

| a) | Planting density. The minimum vine planting density is 6 000 plants per hectare. The distance between the rows of vines is up to 1,30 metres and the spacing between plants in the same row is between 0,80 metres and 1,20 metres. |
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a)

Planting density. The minimum vine planting density is 6 000 plants per hectare. The distance between the rows of vines is up to 1,30 metres and the spacing between plants in the same row is between 0,80 metres and 1,20 metres.

| b) | Pruning rules. The vines are pruned before the phenological stage corresponding to 2 or 3 unfolded leaves or stage 9 on the Eichhorn and Lorenz scale, using the following techniques: single Guyot pruning with a maximum of 10 buds per plant, of which no more than 8 on the cane, and 1 or 2 spurs with a maximum of 2 buds each; or spur pruning (cordon de Royat) with a maximum of 14 buds per plant, a single or double frame with a maximum of 2 buds on each spur. The period for establishing the cordon is limited to four years. During this period, pruning to single or double Guyot is permitted with a maximum of 8 buds on each cane. The regeneration of a vineyard parcel pruned using the cordon de Royat method may not account for more than 20 % of existing plants per year. – or by means of spur pruning (gobelet or fan pruning), with a maximum of 12 buds per plant pruned to a maximum of 1 or 2 buds on each spur. |
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b)

Pruning rules. The vines are pruned before the phenological stage corresponding to 2 or 3 unfolded leaves or stage 9 on the Eichhorn and Lorenz scale, using the following techniques: single Guyot pruning with a maximum of 10 buds per plant, of which no more than 8 on the cane, and 1 or 2 spurs with a maximum of 2 buds each; or spur pruning (cordon de Royat) with a maximum of 14 buds per plant, a single or double frame with a maximum of 2 buds on each spur. The period for establishing the cordon is limited to four years. During this period, pruning to single or double Guyot is permitted with a maximum of 8 buds on each cane. The regeneration of a vineyard parcel pruned using the cordon de Royat method may not account for more than 20 % of existing plants per year. – or by means of spur pruning (gobelet or fan pruning), with a maximum of 12 buds per plant pruned to a maximum of 1 or 2 buds on each spur.

5.2.   Maximum yields

75 hectolitres per hectare

6.   Demarcated geographical area

The grapes are harvested and the wines made and developed in the following municipalities in the Department of Nièvre: Garchy, Mesves-sur-Loire, Pouilly-sur-Loire, Saint-Andelain, Saint-Laurent-l’Abbaye, Saint-Martin-sur-Nohain, Tracy-sur-Loire (list drawn up on the basis of the Official Geographical Code for 2020).

7.   Wine grape variety(-ies)

Chasselas B

8.   Description of the link(s)

| a) | Description of the natural factors contributing to the link. Stretching over some 20 kilometres along the right bank of the Loire, the geographical area borders the south-east of the Paris Basin. Peaking at 270 metres, i.e. more than 100 metres above the valley, it offers a highly contrasting landscape with deep parallel depressions running north-east/south-west that open on the lower Loire Valley.
  The vineyards are located in seven municipalities around the Saint-Andelain hilltop, which is the highest peak of the geographical area.
  They rest on a variety of geological formations, and the demarcated parcels selected for harvesting the grapes reflect this diversity. Preference is given in particular to: – The kimmeridgian marl, or ‘white soil’, that characterises the central part of the geographical area, in the municipalities of Pouilly-sur-Loire and Saint-Andelain: these are the most widely represented wine-growing soils. – The limestone of the Oxfordian stage, which has produced soils with a high stone content, known locally as ‘caillottes’: they are concentrated in the north-east of the geographical area. – The flint-rich, more or less clayey soils (‘silex’) that formed during the highly erosive phase of the Cretaceous period, which are found mainly in the territory of the municipality of Saint-Andelain. – The siliceous, more or less clayey soils found mainly at the western edge of the geographical area, in the municipality of Tracy-sur-Loire.
  The geographical area enjoys a semi-maritime climate. The average annual rainfall is 600 mm, and the Loire plays a leading role as a heat regulator by draining the cold air from the perpendicular valleys. |
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a)

Description of the natural factors contributing to the link. Stretching over some 20 kilometres along the right bank of the Loire, the geographical area borders the south-east of the Paris Basin. Peaking at 270 metres, i.e. more than 100 metres above the valley, it offers a highly contrasting landscape with deep parallel depressions running north-east/south-west that open on the lower Loire Valley.

The vineyards are located in seven municipalities around the Saint-Andelain hilltop, which is the highest peak of the geographical area.

They rest on a variety of geological formations, and the demarcated parcels selected for harvesting the grapes reflect this diversity. Preference is given in particular to: – The kimmeridgian marl, or ‘white soil’, that characterises the central part of the geographical area, in the municipalities of Pouilly-sur-Loire and Saint-Andelain: these are the most widely represented wine-growing soils. – The limestone of the Oxfordian stage, which has produced soils with a high stone content, known locally as ‘caillottes’: they are concentrated in the north-east of the geographical area. – The flint-rich, more or less clayey soils (‘silex’) that formed during the highly erosive phase of the Cretaceous period, which are found mainly in the territory of the municipality of Saint-Andelain. – The siliceous, more or less clayey soils found mainly at the western edge of the geographical area, in the municipality of Tracy-sur-Loire.

The geographical area enjoys a semi-maritime climate. The average annual rainfall is 600 mm, and the Loire plays a leading role as a heat regulator by draining the cold air from the perpendicular valleys.

| b) | Description of the human factors contributing to the link. Early wine-growing can be traced back to the 5th century and the existence of a Gallo-Roman estate by the name of ‘Pauliacum’. In 680, Bishop Vigilius left his estate of Pouilly and its vines to the Abbey of Notre-Dame-d’Auxerre. The Roman road dating back to this time crosses the geographical area, providing evidence of the area’s long history of commercial activity.
  At the time, the vineyards enjoyed real growth thanks to monastic congregations, in particular the Benedictine monks of Charité-sur-Loire. On one of the slopes overlooking the Loire, a plot of approximately four hectares called ‘Loge aux Moines’ testifies to this period of expansion.
  From the 16th century on, the Loire and its boats facilitated the distribution of wines, and following the opening of the Briare Canal in 1642, linking the Loire to the Seine, much of this trade was directed toward Paris. ‘Pouilly’ wines then started arriving in England, having been traded at the Foires de Rouen. The Saint Vincent winegrowers’ associations (‘confréries vigneronnes’) were founded at the end of the 17th century.
  Throughout the 18th century, ‘Pouilly’ wine was shipped to Montargis, Fontainebleau, Paris and Versailles. The vineyards, which covered 2 000 hectares, were planted with various grape varieties: Melon B, Meslier Saint-François B, Sauvignon B and Chasselas B.
  The second half of the 19th century was marked by a significant shift from wine production to production of table grapes (Chasselas B), shipped by rail to the poorly supplied Paris market, until the phylloxera crisis of 1890.
  In 1923, a judgment recognised the use of the name ‘Pouilly-sur-Loire’ for wines made from the Chasselas B variety. The producers subsequently organised themselves, establishing the cooperative cellar of Pouilly in 1948, followed by the Confrérie des ‘Baillis’, whose aim was to raise awareness of ‘Pouilly’ wines. Since then, much of the production has been marketed domestically and exported to more than 90 countries.
  In 2009, production amounted to approximately 1 000 hectolitres from a total of 30 hectares of vineyards operated mainly by family businesses. The wines are dry still white wines with a colour ranging from pale yellow to gold.
  They are lively, bold and refreshing. They often have mineral notes and notes of white flowers and dried fruit, with a certain roundness. The combination of a semi-maritime climate, a location protected from the westerly winds and proximity to the Loire, which acts as a temperature regulator, gives this geographical area excellent climatic conditions for the cultivation of the Chasselas B variety. |
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b)

Description of the human factors contributing to the link. Early wine-growing can be traced back to the 5th century and the existence of a Gallo-Roman estate by the name of ‘Pauliacum’. In 680, Bishop Vigilius left his estate of Pouilly and its vines to the Abbey of Notre-Dame-d’Auxerre. The Roman road dating back to this time crosses the geographical area, providing evidence of the area’s long history of commercial activity.

At the time, the vineyards enjoyed real growth thanks to monastic congregations, in particular the Benedictine monks of Charité-sur-Loire. On one of the slopes overlooking the Loire, a plot of approximately four hectares called ‘Loge aux Moines’ testifies to this period of expansion.

From the 16th century on, the Loire and its boats facilitated the distribution of wines, and following the opening of the Briare Canal in 1642, linking the Loire to the Seine, much of this trade was directed toward Paris. ‘Pouilly’ wines then started arriving in England, having been traded at the Foires de Rouen. The Saint Vincent winegrowers’ associations (‘confréries vigneronnes’) were founded at the end of the 17th century.

Throughout the 18th century, ‘Pouilly’ wine was shipped to Montargis, Fontainebleau, Paris and Versailles. The vineyards, which covered 2 000 hectares, were planted with various grape varieties: Melon B, Meslier Saint-François B, Sauvignon B and Chasselas B.

The second half of the 19th century was marked by a significant shift from wine production to production of table grapes (Chasselas B), shipped by rail to the poorly supplied Paris market, until the phylloxera crisis of 1890.

In 1923, a judgment recognised the use of the name ‘Pouilly-sur-Loire’ for wines made from the Chasselas B variety. The producers subsequently organised themselves, establishing the cooperative cellar of Pouilly in 1948, followed by the Confrérie des ‘Baillis’, whose aim was to raise awareness of ‘Pouilly’ wines. Since then, much of the production has been marketed domestically and exported to more than 90 countries.

In 2009, production amounted to approximately 1 000 hectolitres from a total of 30 hectares of vineyards operated mainly by family businesses. The wines are dry still white wines with a colour ranging from pale yellow to gold.

They are lively, bold and refreshing. They often have mineral notes and notes of white flowers and dried fruit, with a certain roundness. The combination of a semi-maritime climate, a location protected from the westerly winds and proximity to the Loire, which acts as a temperature regulator, gives this geographical area excellent climatic conditions for the cultivation of the Chasselas B variety.

The resulting mild temperatures during the growing cycle of the vine ensure that the grapes ripen evenly, while the alternation of hot days and cool nights throughout the ripening period of the grapes develop the aromas of the wines and preserve their freshness.

This region, which has undergone profound changes over the centuries, has always maintained its wine-growing traditions. Areas with high quality potential, where for centuries vines were preferred to other crops, remain devoted to wine-growing.

These customs are reflected in the demarcated parcel area, which is confined to parcels with shallow soils, often on a steep slope. In these conditions, plants and their production potential need to be extremely well managed by means of high planting density, vine training and rigorous pruning. These techniques illustrate the ancestral know-how of a human community committed to its wine-growing traditions and landscape, as indicated by the continued existence of the winegrowers’ associations founded in the 17th century.

This know-how is also reflected in the ability of the winemaker, built up over generations, to bring out the originality and richness of the natural environment: ‘Pouilly-sur-Loire’ wines boasting finesse.

The white wines of ‘Pouilly-sur-Loire’, first mentioned by the monks of Charité-sur-Loire in the 12th century and then by Guy COQUILLE, member of the Third Estate in the 16th century, who noted that the region’s wines were present on the tables of the great and the good of the Kingdom, continued to improve their reputation. The international trade associated with them is an excellent illustration of this.

9.   Essential further conditions (packaging, labelling, other requirements)

Legal framework

National legislation

Type of further condition

Derogation concerning production in the demarcated geographical area

Description of the condition

The area in immediate proximity, defined by derogation for the production of wines, comprises the territory of the following municipalities, on the basis of the 2020 Official Geographical Code:

| — | Department of Cher: Bannay, Bué, Crézancy-en-Sancerre, Jalognes, Menetou-Râtel, Ménétreol-sous-Sancerre, Montigny, Neuvy-Deux-Clochers, Saint-Satur, Sainte-Gemme-en-Sancerrois, Sancerre, Sury-en-Vaux, Thauvenay, Veaugues, Verdigny and Vinon. |
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Department of Cher: Bannay, Bué, Crézancy-en-Sancerre, Jalognes, Menetou-Râtel, Ménétreol-sous-Sancerre, Montigny, Neuvy-Deux-Clochers, Saint-Satur, Sainte-Gemme-en-Sancerrois, Sancerre, Sury-en-Vaux, Thauvenay, Veaugues, Verdigny and Vinon.

| — | Department of Loiret: Beaulieu-sur-Loire, Bonny-sur-Loire, Briare, Gien, Ousson-sur-Loire, Saint-Brisson-sur-Loire and Thou. |
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Department of Loiret: Beaulieu-sur-Loire, Bonny-sur-Loire, Briare, Gien, Ousson-sur-Loire, Saint-Brisson-sur-Loire and Thou.

| — | Department of Nièvre: Alligny-Cosne, Bulcy, Cosne-Cours-sur-Loire, La Celle-sur-Loire, Myennes, Neuvy-sur-Loire, Pougny, Saint-Loup and Saint-Père. |
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Department of Nièvre: Alligny-Cosne, Bulcy, Cosne-Cours-sur-Loire, La Celle-sur-Loire, Myennes, Neuvy-sur-Loire, Pougny, Saint-Loup and Saint-Père.

Legal framework

National legislation

Type of further condition

Additional provisions relating to labelling

Description of the condition

All optional information is printed on the labels in letters that may not be larger, in height, width or thickness, than double the size of the letters forming the name of the controlled designation of origin.

The size of the letters of the supplementary geographical name ‘Val de Loire’ may not be larger, either in height or width, than two-thirds of the size of the letters forming the name of the controlled designation of origin.

Wines with the registered designation of origin may specify on their labels the name of a smaller geographical unit, provided that: – it is a place name listed in the land registry; – the name appears on the harvest declaration.

Link to the product specification

https://info.agriculture.gouv.fr/gedei/site/bo-agri/document_administratif-c8e782e2-9df9-46eb-b243-3eff89c512ec

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(1)  OJ L 9, 11.1.2019, p. 2.

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