Purpose

To establish rules for trade in ovalbumin (egg white protein) and lactalbumin (milk protein).

Scope

The regime covers ovalbumin and lactalbumin.

Although there is a common market organisation for eggs, there were no rules governing trade in ovalbumin and lactalbumin.

The regime covers imports only.

Regulating trade with non-EU countries (imports only)

• Issuing of import licences

  Imports may be subject to import licences issued by the Member States.

• Importation

  Where there is a risk that imports could threaten the Community market, additional import duties can be levied.

• Tariff quotas

  Tariff quotas are attributed on the first come, first served principle, the simultaneous examination method or the traditional/new arrivals method. Other, non-discriminatory methods may be adopted.

• Price rises

  Where prices on the Community market rise, the Council, acting on a proposal from the Commission and after consulting the European Parliament, may take appropriate measures.

• Marketing standards  

  Marketing standards such as quality grading and packaging corresponding to those in force in the eggs sector may be adopted.

• Processing

  The inward processing scheme may be suspended.

• Safeguard measures

  Safeguard measures may be taken if there is a risk that imports or exports could disturb the Community market.

• Barriers to trade

  Taxes that have an equivalent effect to customs duties and the imposition of any quantitative restrictions or similar measures are prohibited in trade with non-EU countries.

• Common customs tariff

  The common customs tariff duty rates apply.

• Communication

  The Member States and the Commission are required to provide each other with the information they need to implement the legislation.

Other provisions

• Committee procedure

  In implementing the legislation, the Commission is assisted by a Management Committee for Eggs and Poultrymeat, composed of representatives from the Member States and chaired by a Commission representative.

Legal basis:

Regulation (EEC) No 2783/75 of the Council of 29 October 1975 on the common system of trade for ovalbumin and lactalbumin (Consolidated text)

Management Committee for poultry and eggs