The 34th session of the Codex Committee on General Principles (CCGP) has concluded in Lille, France, from June 2-6, 2025 with key discussions revolving around updating the Codex Procedural Manual. The committee agreed to forward several proposed changes to the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) for adoption, which reflected ongoing efforts to enhance clarity and efficiency in the fundamental text. These updates aim to refine existing procedures and ensure the Codex Procedural Manual remains the compass for Codex vital work.

Jean Luc Angot, Chairperson of CCGP, France, announced his retirement during his final meeting, marking the end of a remarkable tenure. Reflecting on his journey, Angot expressed gratitude for the constructive engagement of delegates and the support of his team in France and the Codex Secretariat. He highlighted the committee’s growth, noting his “pride in having witnessed significant progress in our work.” As CCGP celebrates its 60th anniversary, Angot wished for its continued evolution to address technological and global developments. He concluded with heartfelt thanks, expressing fond memories of the “Codex family” and warm wishes for World Food Safety Day.

Loïc Evain (left) and Jean-Luc Angot (right)

Succeeding Jean-Luc Angot, is Loïc Evain, newly appointed Chair of CCGP. “You are the guardians of the Procedural Manual, and we all know how essential procedures are to the development of robust standards,” he told delegates. Evain, Inspector General of Veterinary Public Health and former Chief Veterinary Officer, France, has extensive experience in food safety, including leading the Codex Committee on Food Hygiene working group on microbiological risk management in the early 2000s. Since January 2025, he has chaired the international section of France’s Ministry of Agriculture. Committed to fostering consensus and multilateralism, Evain aims to uphold the CCGP’s role in ensuring Codex standards support global trade.

The next session of CCGP is scheduled to take place in approximately 18 months with date and place to be determined based upon discussions between the host and Codex aecretariats.

Read more

CCGP34 webpage

Flickr gallery

 © FAO / Codex Giuseppe Di Chiera