Phthorimaea operculella granulovirus (PhopGV) approved as a low-risk active substance in the EU

Andermatt announced that Betabaculovirus phoperculellae (or PhopGV) has been approved as a low-risk active substance under EU Regulation 1107/2009. 

PhopGV offers a novel and highly targeted solution for managing Tuta absoluta, a major pest in tomato cultivation. Its unique mode of action makes it an excellent tool for resistance management. The baculovirus-based product is non-toxic, residue-free, and easily integrates into existing grower spray programs. It is highly compatible with beneficial insects and other plant protection products. By reducing both crop damage and pest populations, PhopGV provides growers with a sustainable and effective biological alternative.

This approval follows an extensive and costly regulatory process, highlighting the challenges faced in bringing innovative biological solutions to market. Despite its low-risk profile, the approval process took significantly longer and cost twice as much as anticipated. This raises concerns about regulatory inefficiencies, particularly given the EU Green Deal’s commitment to sustainable agriculture. While PhopGV’s approval is a positive milestone, it underscores the need for faster and more efficient regulatory pathways for biological solutions.

PhopGV has now been officially approved as Betabaculovirus phoperculellae, in line with the new ICTV species name for Phthorimaea operculella granulovirus. The approval is published under Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/103 (EUR-Lex).