6.6.2015

Official Journal of the European Union

C 189/1

Euro exchange rates (1)

5 June 2015

(2015/C 189/01)

1 euro =

	Currency	Exchange rate
USD	US dollar	1,1218
JPY	Japanese yen	139,97
DKK	Danish krone	7,4603
GBP	Pound sterling	0,73170
SEK	Swedish krona	9,3417
CHF	Swiss franc	1,0478
ISK	Iceland króna
NOK	Norwegian krone	8,8085
BGN	Bulgarian lev	1,9557
CZK	Czech koruna	27,396
HUF	Hungarian forint	311,28
PLN	Polish zloty	4,1441
RON	Romanian leu	4,4545
TRY	Turkish lira	2,9899
AUD	Australian dollar	1,4534
CAD	Canadian dollar	1,4023
HKD	Hong Kong dollar	8,6979
NZD	New Zealand dollar	1,5713
SGD	Singapore dollar	1,5122
KRW	South Korean won	1 249,74
ZAR	South African rand	13,9126
CNY	Chinese yuan renminbi	6,9596
HRK	Croatian kuna	7,5589
IDR	Indonesian rupiah	14 912,50
MYR	Malaysian ringgit	4,1766
PHP	Philippine peso	50,501
RUB	Russian rouble	62,8100
THB	Thai baht	37,829
BRL	Brazilian real	3,5189
MXN	Mexican peso	17,4451
INR	Indian rupee	71,5602

(1) Source: reference exchange rate published by the ECB.

6.6.2015

Official Journal of the European Union

C 189/2

Notice of initiation of an expiry review of the anti-dumping measures applicable to sodium cyclamate originating in the People's Republic of China and Indonesia

(2015/C 189/02)

Following the publication of a Notice of impending expiry (1) of the anti-dumping measures in force on the imports of sodium cyclamate originating in the People's Republic of China (‘the PRC’) and Indonesia, the European Commission (‘the Commission’) has received a request for review pursuant to Article 11(2) of Council Regulation (EC) No 1225/2009 of 30 November 2009 on protection against dumped imports from countries not members of the European Community (2) (‘the basic Regulation’).

1. Request for review

The request was lodged on 6 March 2015 by Productos Aditivos S.A. (‘the applicant’), the sole producer of sodium cyclamate in the Union, thus representing 100 % of the total Union production.

2. Product under review

The product subject to this review is sodium cyclamate originating in the PRC and Indonesia (‘the countries concerned’) currently falling within CN code ex 2929 90 00 (TARIC code 2929900010) (‘the product under review’).

3. Existing measures

The measures currently in force are a definitive anti-dumping duty imposed by Council Implementing Regulation (EU) No 492/2010 (3), as last amended by Council Implementing Regulation (EU) No 398/2012 (4) (‘the existing measures’).

4. Grounds for the review

The request is based on the grounds that the expiry of the measures would be likely to result in continuation and recurrence of dumping and injury to the Union industry.

4.1. Allegation of likelihood of continuation and recurrence of dumping

Since, in view of the provisions of Article 2(7) of the basic Regulation, the PRC is considered to be a non-market economy country, the applicant established normal value for the imports from the PRC on the basis of a constructed normal value (manufacturing costs, selling, general and administrative costs (SG&A) and profit) in a market economy third country, namely Indonesia. The allegation of likelihood of continuation of dumping is based on a comparison of the normal value thus established with the export price (at ex-works level) of the product under review when sold for export to the Union. On this basis, the dumping margin found for the PRC is significant.

In the absence of reliable data on domestic prices for Indonesia the allegation of likelihood of recurrence of dumping is based on a comparison of a constructed normal value (manufacturing costs, selling, general and administrative costs (SG&A) and profit) in Indonesia with the export price (at ex-works level) of the product under review when sold for export to all third country export markets, in view of the current absence of significant import volumes from Indonesia to the Union.

4.2. Allegation of likelihood of continuation and recurrence of injury

The applicant has provided prima facie evidence showing that imports of the product under review from the PRC to the Union have increased in absolute terms and in terms of market share.

The prima facie evidence provided by the applicant also shows that the volume and the prices of the imported product from the PRC have, among other consequences, had a negative impact on the quantities sold, the market share held and the level of prices charged by the Union industry, resulting in substantial adverse effects on the overall performance of the Union industry. In addition, the applicant alleges that any further substantial increase of imports at dumped prices from the PRC would be likely to cause further injury to the Union industry should measures be allowed to lapse.

On this basis, the applicant alleges continuation of injury.

The applicant also alleges the likelihood of recurrence of injury from Indonesia. In this respect the prima facie evidence provided by the applicant, complemented by information available to the Commission, shows that, should measures be allowed to lapse, the current import level of the product under review from Indonesia to the Union is likely to increase due to the existence of unused capacity in Indonesia and the attractiveness of the Union market.

5. Procedure

Having determined, after consulting the Committee established by Article 15(1) of the basic Regulation, that sufficient evidence exists to justify the initiation of an expiry review, the Commission hereby initiates a review in accordance with Article 11(2) of the basic Regulation.

5.1. Procedure for the determination of a likelihood of continuation or recurrence of dumping

Exporting producers (5) of the product under review from the countries concerned, including those that did not cooperate in the investigation(s) leading to the existing measures, are invited to participate in the Commission investigation.

5.1.1. Investigating exporting producers

Procedure for selecting exporting producers to be investigated in the countries concerned

All exporting producers and associations of exporting producers in the countries concerned are invited to contact the Commission, preferably by e-mail, immediately but no later than 15 days after the publication of this Notice in the Official Journal of the European Union, unless otherwise specified, in order to make themselves known and request a questionnaire.

In order to obtain the information it deems necessary for its investigation with regard to exporting producers, the Commission will send questionnaires to the known exporting producers in the countries concerned, to any known association of exporting producers, and to the authorities of those countries.

The exporting producers, the associations of exporting producers and the authorities of those countries must submit the completed questionnaire within 37 days of the date of publication of this Notice in the Official Journal of the European Union, unless otherwise specified.

5.1.2. Additional procedure with regard to exporting producers in the non-market economy country concerned

Selection of a market economy third country

In accordance with Article 2(7)(a) of the basic Regulation, in the case of imports from the PRC normal value will be determined on the basis of the price or constructed value in a market economy third country.

In the previous investigation, Indonesia was used as a market economy third country for the purpose of establishing normal value in respect of the PRC. For the purpose of the current investigation, the Commission envisages using again Indonesia. Interested parties are hereby invited to comment on the appropriateness of this choice within 10 days of the date of publication of this Notice in the Official Journal of the European Union. According to the information available to the Commission, there is only production of the product under review in the Union and in the countries concerned. With the aim of finally selecting the market economy third country, the Commission will examine whether there is production and sales of the product under investigation in those market economy third countries for which there are indications that production of the product under investigation is taking place.

5.1.3. Investigating unrelated importers (6) (7)

Unrelated importers of the product under review from the countries concerned to the Union are invited to participate in this investigation.

In view of the potentially large number of unrelated importers involved in this expiry review and in order to complete the investigation within the statutory time limits, the Commission may limit to a reasonable number the unrelated importers that will be investigated by selecting a sample (this process is also referred to as ‘sampling’). The sampling will be carried out in accordance with Article 17 of the basic Regulation.

In order to enable the Commission to decide whether sampling is necessary and, if so, to select a sample, all unrelated importers, or representatives acting on their behalf, including the ones who did not cooperate in the investigation leading to the measures subject to the present review, are hereby requested to make themselves known to the Commission. These parties must do so within 15 days of the date of publication of this Notice in the Official Journal of the European Union, unless otherwise specified, by providing the Commission with the information on their company(ies) requested in the Annex to this Notice.

In order to obtain information it deems necessary for the selection of the sample of unrelated importers, the Commission may also contact any known associations of importers.

All interested parties wishing to submit any other relevant information regarding the selection of the sample, excluding the information requested above, must do so within 21 days of the publication of this Notice in the Official Journal of the European Union, unless otherwise specified.

If a sample is necessary, the importers may be selected based on the largest representative volume of sales of the product under review in the Union which can reasonably be investigated within the time available. All known unrelated importers and associations of importers will be notified by the Commission of the companies selected to be in the sample.

In order to obtain the information it deems necessary for its investigation, the Commission will send questionnaires to the sampled unrelated importers and to any known association of importers. These parties must submit a completed questionnaire within 37 days from the date of the notification of the sample selection, unless otherwise specified.

5.2. Procedure for the determination of a likelihood of a continuation or recurrence of injury

In order to establish whether there is a likelihood of a continuation or recurrence of injury to the Union industry, Union producers of the product under review are invited to participate in the Commission investigation.

Investigating Union producers

In order to obtain the information it deems necessary for its investigation with regard to Union producers the Commission will send questionnaires to known Union producers or representative Union producers and to any known association of Union producers, namely to:

—	Productos Aditivos S.A.

The aforementioned Union producer must submit the completed questionnaire within 37 days of the date of publication of this Notice in the Official Journal of the European Union, unless otherwise specified.

Any Union producer and association of Union producers not listed above is invited to contact the Commission, preferably by e-mail, immediately but no later than 15 days after the publication of this Notice in the Official Journal of the European Union, unless otherwise specified, in order to make itself known and request a questionnaire.

5.3. Procedure for the assessment of Union interest

Should the likelihood of continuation or recurrence of dumping and injury be confirmed, a decision will be reached, pursuant to Article 21 of the basic Regulation, as to whether maintaining the anti-dumping measures would not be against the Union interest. Union producers, importers and their representative associations, users and their representative associations, and representative consumer organisations are invited to make themselves known within 15 days of the date of publication of this Notice in the Official Journal of the European Union, unless otherwise specified. In order to participate in the investigation, the representative consumer organisations have to demonstrate, within the same deadline, that there is an objective link between their activities and the product under review.

Parties that make themselves known within the above deadline may provide the Commission with information on the Union interest within 37 days of the date of publication of this Notice in the Official Journal of the European Union, unless otherwise specified. This information may be provided either in a free format or by completing a questionnaire prepared by the Commission. In any case, information submitted pursuant to Article 21 will only be taken into account if supported by factual evidence at the time of submission.

5.4. Other written submissions

Subject to the provisions of this Notice, all interested parties are hereby invited to make their views known, submit information and provide supporting evidence. Unless otherwise specified, this information and supporting evidence must reach the Commission within 37 days of the date of publication of this Notice in the Official Journal of the European Union.

5.5. Possibility to be heard by the Commission investigation services

All interested parties may request to be heard by the Commission investigation services. Any request to be heard must be made in writing and must specify the reasons for the request. For hearings on issues pertaining to the initial stage of the investigation the request must be submitted within 15 days of the date of publication of this Notice in the Official Journal of the European Union. Thereafter, a request to be heard must be submitted within the specific deadlines set by the Commission in its communication with the parties.

5.6. Instructions for making written submissions and sending completed questionnaires and correspondence

Information submitted to the Commission for the purpose of trade defence investigations shall be free from copyrights. Interested parties, before submitting to the Commission information and/or data which is subject to third party copyrights, must request specific permission to the copyright holder explicitly allowing: a) the Commission to use the information and data for the purpose of this trade defence proceeding, and b) to provide the information and/or data to interested parties to this investigation in a form that allows them to exercise their rights of defence.

All written submissions, including the information requested in this Notice, completed questionnaires and correspondence provided by interested parties for which confidential treatment is requested shall be labelled ‘Limited’ (8).

Interested parties providing ‘Limited’ information are required to furnish non-confidential summaries of it pursuant to Article 19(2) of the basic Regulation, which will be labelled ‘For inspection by interested parties’. These summaries must be sufficiently detailed to permit a reasonable understanding of the substance of the information submitted in confidence. If an interested party providing confidential information does not furnish a non-confidential summary of it in the requested format and quality, such information may be disregarded.

Interested parties are invited to make all submissions and requests by e-mail including scanned powers of attorney and certification sheets, with the exception of voluminous replies which shall be submitted on a CD-ROM or DVD by hand or by registered mail. By using e-mail, interested parties express their agreement with the rules applicable to electronic submissions contained in the document ‘CORRESPONDENCE WITH THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION IN TRADE DEFENCE CASES’ published on the website of the Directorate-General for Trade: http://trade.ec.europa.eu/doclib/docs/2011/june/tradoc_148003.pdf The interested parties must indicate their name, address, telephone and a valid e-mail address and they should ensure that the provided e-mail address is a functioning official business e-mail which is checked on a daily basis. Once contact details are provided, the Commission will communicate with interested parties by e-mail only, unless they explicitly request to receive all documents from the Commission by another means of communication or unless the nature of the document to be sent requires the use of a registered mail. For further rules and information concerning correspondence with the Commission including principles that apply to submissions by e-mail, interested parties should consult the communication instructions with interested parties referred to above.

Commission address for correspondence:

European Commission

Directorate-General for Trade

Directorate H

Office: CHAR 04/039

1040 Bruxelles/Brussel

BELGIQUE/BELGIË

E-mail for dumping issues	:	TRADE-SOCY-DUMPING@ec.europa.eu
E-mail for all other issues and the Annex	:	TRADE-SOCY-INJURY@ec.europa.eu

6. Non-cooperation

In cases where any interested party refuses access to or does not provide the necessary information within the time limits, or significantly impedes the investigation, findings, affirmative or negative, may be made on the basis of facts available, in accordance with Article 18 of the basic Regulation.

Where it is found that any interested party has supplied false or misleading information, the information may be disregarded and use shall be made of facts available.

If an interested party does not cooperate or cooperates only partially and findings are therefore based on facts available in accordance with Article 18 of the basic Regulation, the result may be less favourable to that party than if it had cooperated.

Failure to give a computerised response shall not be deemed to constitute non-cooperation, provided that the interested party shows that presenting the response as requested would result in an unreasonable extra burden or unreasonable additional cost. The interested party should immediately contact the Commission.

7. Hearing Officer

Interested parties may request the intervention of the Hearing Officer in trade proceedings. The Hearing Officer acts as an interface between the interested parties and the Commission investigation services. The Hearing Officer reviews requests for access to the file, disputes regarding the confidentiality of documents, requests for extension of time limits and requests by third parties to be heard. The Hearing Officer may organise a hearing with an individual interested party and mediate to ensure that the interested parties' rights of defence are being fully exercised.

A request for a hearing with the Hearing Officer should be made in writing and should specify the reasons for the request. For hearings on issues pertaining to the initial stage of the investigation the request must be submitted within 15 days of the date of publication of this Notice in the Official Journal of the European Union. Thereafter, a request to be heard must be submitted within specific deadlines set by the Commission in its communication with the parties.

The Hearing Officer will also provide opportunities for a hearing involving parties to take place which would allow different views to be presented and rebuttal arguments offered on issues pertaining, among other things, to the likelihood of a continuation or recurrence of dumping and injury.

For further information and contact details interested parties may consult the Hearing Officer's web pages on DG Trade's website: http://ec.europa.eu/trade/trade-policy-and-you/contacts/hearing-officer/

8. Schedule of the investigation

The investigation will be concluded, pursuant to Article 11(5) of the basic Regulation, within 15 months of the date of the publication of this Notice in the Official Journal of the European Union.

9. Possibility to request a review under Article 11(3) of the basic Regulation

As this expiry review is initiated in accordance with the provisions of Article 11(2) of the basic Regulation, the findings thereof will not lead to the existing measures being amended but will lead to those measures being repealed or maintained in accordance with Article 11(6) of the basic Regulation.

If any interested party considers that a review of the measures is warranted so as to allow for the possibility to amend the measures, that party may request a review pursuant to Article 11(3) of the basic Regulation.

Parties wishing to request such a review, which would be carried out independently of the expiry review mentioned in this Notice, may contact the Commission at the address given above.

10. Processing of personal data

Any personal data collected in this investigation will be treated in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 45/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 December 2000 on the protection of individuals with regard to the processing of personal data by the Community institutions and bodies and on the free movement of such data (9).

(1) OJ C 374, 22.10.2014, p. 4.

(2) OJ L 343, 22.12.2009, p. 51.

(3) Council Implementing Regulation (EU) No 492/2010 of 3 June 2010 imposing a definitive anti-dumping duty on imports of sodium cyclamate originating in the People's Republic of China and Indonesia following an expiry review pursuant to Article 11(2) of Regulation (EC) No 1225/2009 (OJ L 140, 8.6.2010, p. 2).

(4) Council Implementing Regulation (EU) No 398/2012 of 7 May 2012 amending Implementing Regulation (EU) No 492/2010 imposing a definitive anti-dumping duty on imports of sodium cyclamate originating in, inter alia, the People's Republic of China (OJ L 124, 11.5.2012, p. 1).

(5) An exporting producer is any company in the countries concerned which produces and exports the product under review to the Union market, either directly or via third party, including any of its related companies involved in the production, domestic sales or exports of the product under review.

(6) Only importers not related to exporting producers can be sampled. Importers that are related to exporting producers have to fill in the Annex to the questionnaire for these exporting producers. For the definition of a related party see footnote 3 in the Annex.

(7) The data provided by unrelated importers may also be used in relation to aspects of this investigation other than the determination of dumping.

(8) A ‘Limited’ document is a document which is considered confidential pursuant to Article 19 of Council Regulation (EC) No 1225/2009 (OJ L 343, 22.12.2009, p. 51) and Article 6 of the WTO Agreement on Implementation of Article VI of the GATT 1994 (Anti-Dumping Agreement). It is also a document protected pursuant to Article 4 of Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 145, 31.5.2001, p. 43).

(9) OJ L 8, 12.1.2001, p. 1.

ANNEX

6.6.2015

Official Journal of the European Union

C 189/11

Publication of an application pursuant to Article 50(2)(a) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs

(2015/C 189/04)

This publication confers the right to oppose the application pursuant to Article 51 of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1).

SINGLE DOCUMENT

‘LATVIJAS LIELIE PELĒKIE ZIRŅI’

EC No: LV-PDO-0005-01194 — 04.02.2014

PDO ( X ) PGI ( )

1. Name

‘Latvijas lielie pelēkie zirņi’

2. Member State or Third Country

Latvia

3. Description of the agricultural product or foodstuff

3.1. Type of product

Class 1.6. Fruit, vegetables and cereals, fresh or processed

3.2. Description of the product to which the name in (1) applies

The PDO ‘Latvijas lielie pelēkie zirņi’ refers to the dried seeds of the local ‘Retrija’ cultivar of the maculatum variety of field pea (Pisum sativum L.).

This dried legume product has the following morphological characteristics:

Appearance: large, very coarse, brown with a marbled pattern that gives it a greyish colouration, and possessing a black hilum.

Average weight: mass of 1 000 peas: 360-380 g

mass per storage volume: 780 g/l

Chemical characteristics of ‘Latvijas lielie pelēkie zirņi’ (in %):

— moisture content: no more than 14 %

— crude protein: 0-34 % (with a lysine content of up to 11,4 %)

— fats: 1,5-2 %

— carbohydrates: 50-57 %

— crude fibre: up to 6,5 %

— ash: no more than 2 %

‘Latvijas lielie pelēkie zirņi’ are eaten without removing the testa (or seed coat) of the product, because it cannot be separated from the rest of the seed; this means that the product does not disintegrate when boiled, as the testa holds fast to the rest of the pea.

The boiled pea has the following organoleptic characteristics:

—	soft, floury consistency;

—	a mild yet specific flavour which comes from the skin.

3.3. Feed (for products of animal origin only) and raw materials (for processed products only)

—

3.4. Specific steps in production that must take place in the identified geographical area

All steps in production - cultivation, drying and sorting - take place in the area concerned.

3.5. Specific rules concerning slicing, grating, packaging, etc. of the product the registered name refers to

—

3.6. Specific rules concerning labelling of the product the registered name refers to

—

4. Concise definition of the geographical area

The geographical area in which the product with this PDO is produced covers nearly all of Latvia, except for the following regions: the coast of the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Riga up to 5 km inland in the municipality of Nīca, the municipalities of Liepāja and Pāvilosta, the coastal areas of the municipalities of Ventspils and Dundaga, and the municipalities of Roja, Engure, Jūrmala, Riga, Carnikava, Ādaži, Saulkrasti and Salacgrīva.

5. Link with the geographical area

The main factors influencing the quality of ‘Latvijas lielie pelēkie zirņi’ are the local climatic conditions, soil characteristics and historical and human factors.

Specificity of the geographical area

The area in which ‘Latvijas lielie pelēkie zirņi’ are cultivated is located in the temperate zone. Latvia's climate is influenced by the proximity of the sea and masses of air coming in from the Atlantic Ocean, so its climate is predominantly mild and humid, with four distinct seasons. Skies are often overcast (for an average of 160-180 days a year) whereas there is sunshine for an average of 1 790 hours a year. The greatest number of sunny days, 28-30 on average, is experienced from May to August, when the sun shines for 8-10 hours a day. Average precipitation fluctuates between 574 and 691 mm a year. The predominantly mild and humid climate creates all the preconditions for optimum growth, flowering and crop formation, so it is precisely in that geographical area that the key qualities and characteristics of the legumes are best expressed.

The moderately and well-conditioned soils of the defined geographical area, which are of a calcareous loamy granulometric texture with an optimum soil pH of around 7, are essential for optimum growth of ‘Latvijas lielie pelēkie zirņi’.

Specificity of the product

Dried ‘Latvijas lielie pelēkie zirņi’ are distinguished from other peas by their especially large, coarse seeds (a mass of 1 000 seeds weighs 360-380 g). Although there are few seeds per pod, this is compensated for by their good culinary qualities, such as a relatively short boiling time (around 10 minutes less than other peas). Characteristics of the boiled pea: soft, floury consistency and a mild yet specific flavour which comes from the skin.

Causal link between the geographical area and the quality or characteristics of the product

‘Latvijas lielie pelēkie zirņi’ is a product that has developed only under the influence of specific natural conditions and as a result of the skills of local producers.

Environmental factors that ensure the product has higher quality characteristics (seeds are coarse and of a floury consistency):

—

climate – differences in humidity and temperature at various stages of plant growth are of key importance for obtaining such large seeds.

‘Latvijas lielie pelēkie zirņi’ have a long growing season, lasting from 80 to 115 days. The product grows and develops fairly slowly at the beginning of the growing season, but then flowers and ripens quite quickly. Therefore Latvia’s climatic conditions are suitable for obtaining a high-quality yield (coarse seeds, floury consistency, quick boiling time). It is very important at the time of flowering, and especially when pods are forming (in the second half of June and first half of July), that the weather be sufficiently humid, as this has a decisive influence on the size of the seeds and thickness of the coat. Excessive humidity during this period will delay the seeds ripening, whereas dry conditions result in tiny peas with a thicker coat. In either case the result is a longer boiling time and a deterioration in the cultivar’s taste characteristics, so the peas need to be sown early - as early as last ten days of April, but no later than the first ten days of May;

—

optimum soil pH is 7.

‘Latvijas lielie pelēkie zirņi’ are more demanding with regard to the growing environment than other pea varieties. They are suited to moderately and well-conditioned soils of a calcareous loamy granulometric texture, but smaller yields can still be obtained from poorly conditioned soil, loamy sands and boggy mineral soils. The optimum soil pH for ‘Latvijas lielie pelēkie zirņi’ is around 7, which is more than for other, less demanding pea varieties.

Historical and human factors: cultivation and selection of ‘Latvijas lielie pelēkie zirņi’ in the defined geographical area over generations have produced a high-quality variety which is perfectly adapted to local conditions and which has become a firm gastronomic favourite.

There is a long tradition of cultivating grey peas in Latvia. This type of pea has been grown in Latvia since as early as the 18th century. Articles were published at the beginning of the 20th century on the specifics of cultivating ‘grey’ peas. The selective breeding of peas in Latvia began in 1925 at Stende State Cereals Breeding Institute, but has been pursued at Priekuļi State Plant Breeding Institute since 1945, which demonstrates that they can be grown throughout Latvia. Selective breeding of ‘Latvijas lielie pelēkie zirņi’ was begun by ordinary people on the basis of large brown Vidzeme peas. By using the material thus selected and improving it through targeted selection, i.e. by selecting against the bitterness of the seeds of the wild varieties and obtaining boiled seeds with a good taste and appearance, Priekuļi State Plant Breeding Institute in Priekuļi, Priekuļi civil parish, Priekuļi municipality, created the ‘Retrija’ variety of ‘Latvijas lielie pelēkie zirņi’, the only one to have such large seeds.

Crop cultivation and harvesting techniques developed over several years are of key importance for ensuring both an increase in the total yield and a high-quality product. These include, for example, preparing the soil, choosing the right ratio for mixed planting, and choosing the right time to harvest. ‘Latvijas lielie pelēkie zirņi’ are grown only in mixed plantings, with cereal plants (oats, barley or spring wheat) serving as a support. The ratio of the various crops in the mixed plantings must be as follows: The ratio of ‘Latvijas lielie pelēkie zirņi’ to cereals is either 1:2 or 1:1.

Threshing the product with a combine requires attention and skill, because ripe ‘Latvijas lielie pelēkie zirņi’ split in half very easily. Once the product has been harvested, it is carefully dried in drying machines.

Latvians have been pea eaters for centuries. Peas, barley and beans long constituted diet staples, and they remained important up until the introduction of the potato in the 19th century. Nowadays ‘pelēkie zirņi’ with bacon is referred to in tourist guidebooks as a specifically Latvian dish that is worth sampling.

Reference to publication of the specification

(the second subparagraph of Article 6(1) of this Regulation (2))

http://www.pvd.gov.lv/lat/kreis_izvlne/novertesana_un_registracija/lauksaimniecibas_un_partikas_p/

(1) OJ L 343, 14.12.2012, p. 1.

(2) See footnote 1.

6.6.2015

Official Journal of the European Union

C 189/14

Publication of an application pursuant to Article 50(2)(a) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs

(2015/C 189/05)

This publication confers the right to oppose the application pursuant to Article 51 of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1).

SINGLE DOCUMENT

‘ΠΑΦΙΤΙΚΟ ΛΟΥΚΑΝΙΚΟ’ (PAFITIKO LOUKANIKO)

EU No: CY-PGI-0005-01244 — 17.7.2014

PDO ( ) PGI ( X )

1. Name

‘Παφίτικο Λουκάνικο’ (Pafitiko Loukaniko)

2. Member State or Third Country

Cyprus

3. Description of the agricultural product or foodstuff

3.1. Type of product

Class 1.2. Meat products (cooked, salted, smoked, etc.)

3.2. Description of product to which the name in (1) applies

‘Pafitiko Loukaniko’ is a sausage that is made from chopped pigmeat (the whole animal is used). Once the bones and fat have been removed, the meat is minced and left to mature in dry red wine produced in the Paphos area, with the addition of salt. When fully matured, the chopped meat is put inside a pork casing. Each piece is folded/twisted so that each rope of sausages consists of 6-10 pieces (teratsia). These are hung to dry for two or three days in an enclosed space under controlled conditions, with a maximum temperature of 45 degrees Celsius and low humidity. ‘Pafitiko Loukaniko’ can be eaten cooked in various different ways.

‘Pafitiko Loukaniko’ has the following characteristics (for each sausage):

Physical characteristics:

Shape: long, narrow and cylindrical

Size: diameter approximately 3 cm, length and weight that varies according to the preference of the producer.

Chemical characteristics:

pΗ: 4-5,5, protein: 20-30 %, fat: 22-35 %, moisture content: 38-48 %, sodium chloride (salt): 1,5-2,5 %

Organoleptic characteristics:

Colour: generally brown, with patches ranging from white to dark brown (almost black).

Texture: smooth on the outside.

Taste: when they are ready the sausages have a characteristic flavour, due to the wine and all the spices that are added (notably the coriander, cumin and black pepper).

Aroma: aroma of wine and the spices that are added (notably the coriander, cumin and black pepper).

3.3. Feed (for products of animal origin only) and raw materials (for processed products only)

Raw materials (for processed products only)

—

Fresh pigmeat from healthy animals that have been slaughtered in accordance with the law (complete exsanguination and immediate chilling). On delivery the meat must be a light red colour and smell fresh, have a temperature of 0-7 °C (in accordance with Regulations (ΕC) No 852/2004 (2) and (EC) No 853/2004 (3) of the European Parliament and of the Council, as amended or replaced) and a pH of 5,3-6.

—	Pork casing, which has been washed and cleaned and is kept in salt at a temperature below 3 °C. On delivery checks are performed to ascertain that the casing is clean and smells fresh.

—

Dry red wine produced in wineries or by wine producers in Paphos District from grapes of the local Mavro variety grown in Paphos District. When the wine is delivered checks are performed to ascertain that it has the variety’s characteristic aroma, that the alcohol content is 12-14 % and that the sugar content is less than 4 g/lt.

—	Coarse cooking salt (fine salt is not used, lest too much salt be absorbed by the meat).

—	Compulsory spices: ground coriander, cumin and black pepper.

—	Various other spices can be used according to preference: ground cinnamon, ground cloves and whole or ground mastic berries.

3.4. Specific steps in production that must take place in the defined geographical area

Processing and preparation of ‘Pafitiko Loukaniko’.

3.5. Specific rules concerning slicing, grating, packaging, etc. of the product to which the registered name refers

—

3.6. Specific rules concerning labelling of the product to which the registered name refers

—

4. Concise definition of the geographical area

The administrative boundaries of Paphos District.

5. Link with the geographical area

5.1. Specificity of the geographical area

The specificity of the geographical area, i.e. Paphos District, is due to its climatic and hydrogeological conditions (wet, westerly winds, high rainfall, sea breeze, etc.), which affect the cultivation and development of the local grapes and therefore the quality and characteristics of the wines. In addition, the area’s rich historical and folklore traditions attest to the know-how and experience of the local people in the preparation of ‘Pafitiko Loukaniko’.

5.2. Specificity of the product

The specificity of ‘Pafitiko Loukaniko’ derives first and foremost from the reputation it enjoys compared to other similar products. Its specific characteristics and in particular its taste, smell and appearance are the result of traditional know-how handed down from one generation of locals to the next, and are also due to the wine produced from the Mavro grapes grown within the defined geographical area and in particular in areas of the District lying at an altitude of over 500 metres. As Florentia Kithraiotou clearly explains in ‘The Book of Cyprus Wine’, the environment and the conditions in which the vines develop and fruit are one of the most important factors affecting the characteristics of the wine produced. Thus, ‘Pafitiko Loukaniko’ derives its characteristics from the wine and the wine derives its characteristics from the soil and climate of Paphos District.

5.3. Causal link between the geographical area and a specific quality, the reputation or other characteristic of the product

The know-how of the producers in the defined geographical area is important in determining the specific characteristics of the final product. This is attested to by historical and folklore sources such as ‘Kypriaki Laografia ton Zóon’ (Animals in Cypriot Folklore) by P. Xioutas, ‘Kypriaka Ithi kai Ethima’ (Cypriot Manners and Customs) by G. Papacharalambous and ‘I Geroskipou — istoriki kai laografiki meleti’ (Geroskipou — History and Folklore) by S. Chatzikypriakou, which mention the special ritual slaughter of the pigs, the need to devise ways of preserving the meat in the absence of technology and the way that ‘Pafitiko Loukaniko’ was prepared. These publications also specifically note the high quality of the sausages, which were and still are among the best known in Cyprus, as attested to by recent studies, publications, tourist guides and tourism websites, for example ‘I politismiki klironomia tis Pafou kai i apihisi tis stous neous’ (The cultural heritage of Paphos and its attractiveness to young people) (dissertation) by K. Sousouri, http://www.all4cyprus.com/kypriaki-kouzina, Culinary Map of Cyprus (Department of Agriculture, 2010) and ‘Paradosiaki Diatrofi Prosfigikon kai Ektos Sinoron Ellinismou’ (The traditional diet of Greek refugees and the Greek diaspora) (T. Tsourí, et al.). Finally, the quality characteristics of ‘Pafitiko Loukaniko’ are determined in no small measure by the use of wine made from Mavro grapes grown in the defined geographical area.

Publication reference of the specification

(the second subparagraph of Article 6(1) of this Regulation (4))

http://www.moa.gov.cy/moa/da/da.nsf/All/F3FF567F4E8FF1C5C2257B970039D8EF/$file/Προδιαγραφή_Παφίτικο%20Λουκάνικο.pdf

(1) OJ L 343, 14.12.2012, p. 1.

(2) OJ L 139, 30.4.2004, p. 1.

(3) OJ L 139, 30.4.2004, p. 55.

(4) See footnote 1.

6.6.2015

Official Journal of the European Union

C 189/17

Publication of an application pursuant to Article 50(2)(a) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs

(2015/C 189/06)

This publication confers the right to oppose the application pursuant to Article 51 of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1).

SINGLE DOCUMENT

‘CIPOLLA BIANCA DI MARGHERITA’

EU No: IT-PGI-0005-01231 — 21.5.2014

PDO ( ) PGI ( X )

1. Name

‘Cipolla bianca di Margherita’

2. Member State or Third Country

Italy

3. Description of the agricultural product or foodstuff

3.1. Type of product

Class 1.6 Fruit, vegetables and cereals, fresh or processed

3.2. Description of product to which the name in (1) applies

‘Cipolla bianca di Margherita’ refers to the local population of Allium cepa L. bulbs produced in the identified area. This is a fresh product, noted for its white, succulent bulbs with a high sugar content. There are four different local ecotypes, based on the growing period: ‘Marzaiola’ or ‘Aprilatica’, ‘Maggiaiola’, ‘Giugniese’ and ‘Lugliatica’.

Specifically, the characteristics of the different types are as follows:

— ‘Marzaiola’ or ‘Aprilatica’: early onions (harvested from mid-March onwards), flattened at the top and bottom,

— ‘Maggiaiola’: later than the first type, and the shape is less flattened (harvested in May),

— ‘Giugniese’ and ‘Lugliatica’: later onions (harvested from June to mid-July), with a rounder shape.

When harvested, the onions must meet the following measurable requirements:

— soluble solids: 6,4-9,2 mg/100 g fresh weight,

— dry matter: 6,2-8,9 g/100 g fresh weight,

— size: varying between a minimum of 20 mm and a maximum of 100 mm,

— physical properties: white in colour,

— taste: sweet and juicy. Total reducing sugar content must be more than 3,8 g/100 g fresh weight,

— texture: tender and crisp.

3.3. Feed (for products of animal origin only) and raw materials (for processed products only)

—

3.4. Specific steps in production that must take place in the defined geographical area

All production and packaging steps for ‘Cipolla bianca di Margherita’ must take place in the identified geographical area.

3.5. Specific rules concerning slicing, grating, packaging, etc., of the product to which the registered name refers

Packaging must take place immediately after harvesting in the area defined in point 4 and repackaging the product outside the identified geographical area is not allowed to avoid the risk of transportation and excessive handling of the loose product resulting in damage such as bruising or cuts, which create the ideal conditions for the development of mould and a deterioration in the onion’s texture and quality.

The product can be packed in 10 kg or 5 kg crates, in 0,5 kg or 1,0 kg nets, in 1,0 kg packs or in strings of varying weight comprising a minimum of five onions.

3.6. Specific rules concerning labelling of the product to which the registered name refers

The containers have to bear the wording ‘Cipolla bianca di Margherita’ P.G.I. accompanied by the designation logo and the EU PGI symbol. The containers have to bear the producer’s and the packager’s name, business name and address.

It is prohibited to add to the designation any description not expressly provided for in the production specification.

However, the use of names, company names and private brands is authorised, provided they do not mislead the consumer.

4. Concise definition of the geographical area

The production area for ‘Cipolla bianca di Margherita’ is located along the Adriatic coast comprising the following administrative areas (listed from south to north):

—	the territory of the municipality of Margherita di Savoia,

—	the territory of the municipality of Zapponeta,

—	the territory of the municipality of Manfredonia.

5. Link with the geographical area

In pedological terms, the soils of the production area are mostly sandy, with no stones, derived from the reclamation of a saltwater swamp using sand from the adjacent sea dunes. The presence of a very shallow groundwater level also allows the cultivation of horticultural crops even without the use of irrigation.

The geographical area has a distinct climate, given the presence of the Saline salt pans to the west and the Gargano promontory to the north, different from that of the Apulia region in general and from that of the neighbouring land: ‘[…] this is a clearly arid climate, almost that of a steppe, characterised by very hot summers and very mild winters. It is similar to areas in the tropics […] In the Mediterranean basin, similar climatic conditions can be seen along the southern shore between the Sirte peninsula and the city of Tel Aviv.’ (BONIFICA, 1993. M. CALDARA, D. CAPOLONGO, C. DAPOTE, L. PENNETTA).

‘Cipolla bianca di Margherita’ ecotypes are highly adapted to the specific soil and climatic conditions and are able to fulfil their potential as a crop in terms of quality and yield in these areas alone. They have a specific ability to adapt to these particular soil and climatic conditions, for example that of developing an adequate root system able to extend deep into sandy soil. Other onion cultivars and/or hybrids planted in this area have proved to be far from satisfactory in terms of yield.

Thanks to the specific genetic characteristics of the populations that have been selected and propagated over centuries by the local farmers and to the specific soil and climatic conditions, the ‘Cipolla bianca di Margherita’ has distinct characteristics. The most significant differences that emerged from a study carried out by the University of Foggia that compared the ‘Cipolla bianca di Margherita’ with other white onion cultivars grown outside the geographical area described in point 4 are:

—	the low level of dry matter and soluble solids, making the onion crunchier and more succulent,

—	its lack of sharpness,

—	high quantities of reducing sugars that make these onions sweeter than the other genotypes covered by the study carried out by the University of Foggia,

—	the onions are harvested earlier than in other growing areas.

Furthermore, thanks to the looseness of the sandy soil where the onions are grown, the bulbs can develop the typical shape of this ecotype, free of defects. The percentage of onions that are green around the shoot is very low, given that the cultivation technique involves manual transplanting at a depth that tends to produce a product that is totally white.

The area’s particularly mild coastal climate during the winter and spring warms the sandy soil quickly, which allows a quality product to be grown much earlier than in other agricultural areas.

The sandy soil with a water table very close to the surface allows the plants to be subjected to controlled water stress, which promotes somewhat stunted growth and low dry matter content.

The bulb therefore grows in a ‘self-mulching’ layer of dry sandy soil, which is conducive to its health.

As stated above, the special organoleptic characteristics cannot be found outside the production area, as confirmed by the longstanding reputation ‘Cipolla bianca di Margherita’ enjoys in the main national markets, as well as by the results of quality analyses carried out in July 2012 by University of Foggia, which revealed that ‘Cipolla bianca di Margherita’ has sensory quality attributes which clearly distinguish it from other white onion varieties.

Publication reference of the specification

(the second subparagraph of Article 6(1) of this Regulation (2))

The Ministry launched the national objection procedure with the publication of the proposal for recognising ‘Cipolla bianca di Margherita’ PGI in the Official Gazette of the Italian Republic No 78 of 3 April 2014.

The full text of the product specification is available on the following website: http://www.politicheagricole.it/flex/cm/pages/ServeBLOB.php/L/IT/IDPagina/3335

or alternatively:

by going directly to the homepage of the Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Policy (www.politicheagricole.it) and clicking on ‘Prodotti DOP IGP’ (at the top right-hand side of the screen), then on ‘Prodotti DOP IGP STG’ (on the left-hand side of the screen), and finally by clicking on ‘Disciplinari di Produzione all’esame dell’UE’.

(1) OJ L 343, 14.12.2012, p. 1.

(2) See footnote 1.

		ISSN 1977-091X
Official Journal of the European Union		C 189

English edition	Information and Notices	Volume 58 6 June 2015

Notice No	Contents	page
	IV Notices
	NOTICES FROM EUROPEAN UNION INSTITUTIONS, BODIES, OFFICES AND AGENCIES
	European Commission
2015/C 189/01	Euro exchange rates	1

	V Announcements
	PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COMMON COMMERCIAL POLICY
	European Commission
2015/C 189/02	Notice of initiation of an expiry review of the anti-dumping measures applicable to sodium cyclamate originating in the People's Republic of China and Indonesia	2
	PROCEDURES RELATING TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPETITION POLICY
	European Commission
2015/C 189/03	Prior notification of a concentration (Case M.7648 — eBook.de/Hugendubel/JV) — Candidate case for simplified procedure ( 1 )	10
	OTHER ACTS
	European Commission
2015/C 189/04	Publication of an application pursuant to Article 50(2)(a) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs	11
2015/C 189/05	Publication of an application pursuant to Article 50(2)(a) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs	14
2015/C 189/06	Publication of an application pursuant to Article 50(2)(a) of Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs	17


	(1) Text with EEA relevance