Pest Risk Analysis in Germany over the course of time

In this paper, the framework and procedures for Pest Risk Analysis (PRA) in Germany are outlined from their beginning in the late 1990s, emphasizing its critical role in protecting plant health against new pest introductions through trade and transport. It highlights the legal requirements and prohibitions established to prevent the introduction and spread of pests, detailing the systematic scientific assessment of the likelihood of pest entry and establishment, as well as the potential damage they may cause to plants and ecosystems. The evolution of PRA procedures is discussed, noting the development of "short info sheets" for rapid, very short assessments and the introduction of standardized templates for Express PRAs. Based on standards of the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), these enable quick evaluations of new pests. Legislative frameworks, including the German Plant Protection Act and EU regulations, in particular the Regulation (EU) 2016/2031 on protective measures against pests of plants, govern the PRA process, mandating assessments for non-listed pests and the implementation of control measures based on risk analyses. The paper also describes the procedural instructions that guide the PRA process, ensuring high-quality assessments and timely dissemination of results to relevant authorities. Overall, it serves as a comprehensive overview of the PRA process in Germany, highlighting its importance in maintaining plant health and preventing the introduction of new plant pests into the European Union.