The three presentations were coordinated to cover different areas of the Positive List to be as comprehensive as possible. The needs for a Positive List based on animal welfare, biodiversity as well as human health and safety were covered as well as the gaps in current EU legislation to effectively regulate the pet trade.

The Commission’s arguments were anticipated and successfully addressed by the petitioners. These arguments included disappointing statement such as:

• The Commission is not aware that the trade in exotic pets is a major problem and has no evidence that Positive Lists would have a better effect than the current legislation.
• The current system is based on negative lists, in line with international trade agreements such as CITES.
• Change must be based on sound science and the EU cannot act unilaterally on this issue.
• It would be difficult to distinguish between exotic pets and wild animals.

Many MEPs reacted and gave their unanimous support for the continuation of the conversation, including Alexander Bernhuber (EPP), Cristina Maestre Martín de Almagro (S&D), Michal Wiezik (Renew Europe), Eleonora Evi (Greens/EFA) as well as the Committee Chair, Dolors Montserrat (EPP). She concluded by asking the Commission to move forward with a Positive List in terms of international trade and to see how this could be harmonised at European level.

The next step for the Positive List will be this week, Tuesday, when the project will be discussed at the AGRIFISH Council.