WRITTEN QUESTION E-1809/99

by Paul Rübig (PPE-DE) to the Commission

(12 October 1999)

Subject: Illegal imports of fish from Russia

Proof exists which indicates that, in connection with EU fish imports from various third countries, irregularities have been occurring for some considerable length of time. Such irregularities could, amongst other things, threaten the existence of businesses which fully comply with EU law.

In particular the following accusations may be made:

- EU registration numbers are allocated by the local authorities in Poland and Russia even though structural and other EU hygiene standards are not met and the procedure is allegedly the subject of illegal practices.

- Veterinary checks which are supposed to be carried out when fish are cleared for export are apparently only loosely enforced by the Polish authorities.

- Fish fillets from Kazakhstan and the Ukraine which may not be imported into the EU allegedly reach the EU market illegally via Poland and Estonia, where the fish are repacked.

What action is the Commission to take in order to prevent risks to health arising from illegal fish imports from third countries?

Are any inspection visits to the suspect countries to be undertaken and, if so, when?

During such visits will suspect companies also be inspected, or just the local veterinary authorities?

If suspicions prove to be well-founded, what action can be taken at borders in order to halt deliveries of fish?

Answer given by Mr Byrne on behalf of the Commission

(24 November 1999)

The border inspection posts in Member States check, amongst other things, whether imported fish for human consumption comes from an authorised third country and from an approved establishment. Community inspections are directed at the ability of the competent authorities to guarantee compliance with Community standards.

Regarding the imports from Russia, Poland and Estonia, the Commission informed the authorities in these countries of the alleged irregularities. It requested these authorities to investigate this matter and to inform the Commission by 15 December 1999 of the possible actions undertaken to stop these practices.

A mission took place in Poland in September 1999. Estonia was visited in July 1998. The latest information that the Commission has is that the problem in these countries has been contained. No mission was undertaken to Russia recently. However, because of its importance, this issue was raised in the Community-Russia co-operation committee on 8 October 1999. Depending on the information provided by the Russian authorities, the Commission might consider a mission. In Poland some establishments approved for export to the Community were visited. The suspected establishments are not approved for export of fishery products to the Community.

Under Community legislation it is the responsibility of the Member State to check that the imports originate from approved establishments and to decide the final destination of fish found not to be in conformity with Community legislation. Therefore the Commission requested the German and Austrian authorities to investigate these matters and to alert their border inspection posts in order to avoid illegal imports.