PARIS: France’s Parliament has given final approval to a controversial emergency agricultural bill that permits the restricted use of two pesticides currently banned in the country, triggering political divisions and criticism from environmental groups.
The legislation received its final endorsement in the Senate on Tuesday after being approved by the National Assembly in a 296-224 vote following an intense overnight debate.
Under the new law, France’s national food and environmental safety agency (ANSES) will be allowed to authorize the limited use of acetamiprid and flupyradifurone in specific agricultural sectors facing severe production challenges. While both chemicals remain prohibited under French law, they are permitted under European Union regulations.
The government rejected several amendments proposed by lawmakers from the Renaissance, MoDem, and LIOT parliamentary groups that sought to remove the provision allowing the possible return of acetamiprid.
MoDem lawmaker Richard Ramos criticized the government’s handling of the debate, calling the process inconsistent with democratic principles. Renaissance leader Gabriel Attal also expressed disappointment, saying the parliamentary discussions had been overshadowed by procedural disagreements.
Defending the legislation, Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard urged lawmakers to support the broader package, arguing that it delivers urgently needed assistance to farmers facing mounting economic and production pressures.
The bill has also sparked political fallout within the government. Ecological Transition Minister Monique Barbut, who publicly opposed reintroducing acetamiprid, is expected to submit her resignation to President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday, according to media reports.
Most left-wing lawmakers voted against the legislation, while the Socialist and Green parties announced plans to challenge the law before the Constitutional Council.
Environmental organization Générations Futures condemned the measure, warning that it weakens environmental protections. In contrast, France’s largest farmers’ union, FNSEA, welcomed the legislation, describing it as a significant milestone that acknowledges the growing challenges confronting the country’s agricultural sector.
The bill reflects the French government’s effort to balance environmental commitments with the economic realities facing farmers amid increasing pressure on agricultural production.
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