Brussels – Today (4 November), the Council of the European Union agreed its negotiating position on new rules designed to monitor and control chemicals that can be used in the manufacture of illicit drugs. The new regulatory framework introduces a single set of rules with several objectives. Firstly, it aims to strengthen regulations and the enforcement of customs controls and those within the internal market. Secondly, it aims to reduce disparities in the application of the rules between Member States. Finally, it aims to simplify the existing legislation.
“We must prevent precursors – that is, chemicals that can be converted for the production of drugs – fall into the hands of criminals, while ensuring that legitimate businesses and industries that rely on certain chemicals are not penalised,” said the Irish Minister for Finance, Simon Harris. Against a backdrop marked by an “alarming rise in so-called synthetic precursors,” today’s mandate “aims to achieve both objectives through stricter controls, uniform standards and a reduction in administrative burdens,” he added.
Under the new rules, synthetic precursors will be clearly distinguished from substances used by industry. In fact, the new legislation prohibits “the trade, use, and possession of such substances within the Union, except for very specific purposes.” The new approach also includes “a new, simplified digital system for the import of precursors” which “will reduce the administrative burden and costs for legitimate trade.” This system will also enable customs authorities and law enforcement agencies to identify and respond more quickly to new threats thanks to real-time reporting of significant seizures. The agreed text serves as a negotiating mandate for the Irish Presidency of the Council of the EU, which will begin discussions with the European Parliament on the final wording of the legislation.
English version by the Translation Service of Withub
