Tomato imports from non-EU countries

Priority question for written answer P-000720/2026
to the Commission
Rule 144
Aldo Patriciello (PfE)

The second semester of 2025 saw an 85.77 % increase in imports of tomato products from Egypt into the EU, with the EU market experiencing an increasing influx of significantly lower-priced semi-finished and finished products compared to European equivalents.

The Italian tomato processing sector is a strategic sector valued at around EUR 5.5 billion and accounting for over 50 % of export sales. Italy is the second largest producer of processed tomatoes in the world and the leading exporter of tomato products distributed directly to end consumers. Nevertheless, competitive pressure from non-EU countries risks undermining the economic sustainability of the European supply chain.

Production in the EU is subject to stringent standards in the areas of food safety, environmental protection, use of pesticides, and social rights. These factors entail higher costs compared to those incurred by non-EU suppliers.

The absence of effective reciprocity means there is a risk of unfair competition, with possible spillover effects on employment, economic stability and consumer protection.

In view of the above, can the Commission answer the following:

• 1.Does it intend to verify that tomato products imported from non-EU countries fully comply with health, environmental and social standards?
• 2.Does it plan to adopt corrective measures or safeguard clauses to protect the European tomato sector?

Submitted: 19.2.2026