EU bổ sung mức dư lượng tối đa (MRLs) asen vô cơ trong thủy sản

The SPS Vietnam Office recently received Notification No. G/SPS/N/EU/825 from the WTO SPS Committee Secretariat regarding the European Union’s (EU) draft amendment to Regulation (EU) No. 2023/915. This amendment establishes maximum residue limits (MRLs) for inorganic arsenic in fish and other seafood products.

New Inorganic Arsenic Limits in Fish and Seafood

Specifically, the EU has proposed MRLs for inorganic arsenic in fish and seafood ranging from 0.05 to 1.5 ppm, with the regulation expected to take effect in July 2025. Products already on the market will be permitted for circulation until their expiration dates.

The draft regulation outlines strict criteria, applying MRLs based on the wet weight of the product. If whole fish is exported, the limit applies to the entire fish. Besides fish, the regulation also covers crustaceans such as crabs and bivalve mollusks like scallops.

Previously, the EU had not set specific MRLs for inorganic arsenic in fish and seafood. The introduction of this draft aims to ensure consumer safety in the EU market and comply with the SPS Agreement.

Vietnam’s Response to the New EU Regulations

The SPS Vietnam Office has officially notified key stakeholders, including:

• The Department of Quality, Processing, and Market Development

• The Directorate of Fisheries and Fisheries Surveillance

• The Vietnam Food Administration (Ministry of Health)

• The Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP)

According to experts, inorganic arsenic can accumulate in aquatic organisms due to its presence in water and sediment, entering the food chain through respiration or ingestion. Additionally, environmental pollution from industries such as mining, metallurgy, pesticides, textiles, and fertilizers can contribute to inorganic arsenic contamination in water bodies.

Vietnamese seafood exporters are proactively enhancing quality control measures to meet the EU’s new regulations. This proactive approach not only ensures compliance but also reinforces the brand reputation of Vietnamese seafood in international markets.

Strengthening Quality Control and Environmental Monitoring

Vietnamese authorities are actively monitoring water and sediment quality in aquaculture zones to detect and control inorganic arsenic levels. Since contamination primarily occurs at the farming stage rather than during processing, water quality management in aquaculture areas is crucial.

Meanwhile, seafood processing companies in Vietnam are implementing strict raw material inspections and investing in advanced production technology to ensure compliance with EU food safety standards.

Vietnamese Seafood in the Competitive EU Market

The EU remains a key export market for Vietnam, but competition is fierce, especially against suppliers from China and Thailand. While Vietnamese seafood is price-competitive and of high quality, brand recognition remains a challenge.

Vietnamese agricultural exports hold a strong position in the EU, provided they meet strict origin requirements. However, to improve global market presence, Vietnam must focus on building and protecting national brands for its export products.

Trade Barriers and Market Challenges

The EU continues to apply trade defense measures such as tariff quotas and anti-dumping duties on certain products, including steel and seafood. Additionally, Vietnam has yet to resolve the IUU (Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated) fishing “yellow card”, which has significantly impacted seafood exports to the EU.

Trade experts emphasize that Vietnam must adopt a strategic approach to negotiations, strengthen export regulations, and enhance transparency to prevent fraudulent activities that could harm its international reputation.

Expanding Market Access and Trade Defense Strategies

To strengthen its foothold in the EU, Vietnamese businesses must:
✔ Stay updated on EU market policies and regulations
✔ Improve competitiveness in price, quality, and branding
✔ Ensure compliance with technical standards and certification requirements
✔ Enhance supply chain management for timely and efficient exports

Additionally, Vietnamese exporters should collaborate closely with government agencies to anticipate trade disputes and effectively respond to protectionist measures in global trade.

While Vietnam continues to enjoy a trade surplus with the EU, maintaining and expanding market access requires continuous adaptation to evolving trade regulations. Strategic branding, regulatory compliance, and sustainable trade practices will be essential for securing Vietnam’s long-term position in the European market.

Shipping Solutions to the EU with KFLV

King Freight Logistics Vietnam provides comprehensive shipping services to the EU with: