The Sherpa sub-group on the competitiveness of the European Agro-Food industry visits EFSA

In April 2008 a High Level Group (HLG) on the Competitiveness of the Agro-Food Industry was set up by the European Commission. Members include representatives from the Commission, from the industry, from stakeholder organizations and from Member States. Its role is to provide leadership and to support the competitiveness of the sector.

The High Level Group issued a report in March 2009 on the future competitiveness of the Union’s agro-food industry. This report provided sector-specific recommendations for policy makers at the Union level.

To take forward the HLG programme of activities and the recommendations of the 2009 report, a sub-group (or Sherpa Group) of the HLG will visit EFSA to gain insight in and understanding of EFSA’s role in the EU food safety system. The Sub-group will also look at EFSA’s scientific contribution to foster innovation and to support the Commission’s regulatory initiatives, more specifically the Authority’s role in evaluating foods, feeds and substances.