Horticulture Crop Protection Ltd (HCP)

Horticulture Crop Protection Ltd (HCP) is a not-for-profit, grower-owned organisation established by the UK horticultural industry to manage applications for Extensions of Authorisation for Minor Use (EAMU) and Emergency Authorisations (EA) of plant protection products. These authorisations are vital for crops with limited commercial appeal to agrochemical companies, including many horticultural crops and the seed potato sector.

HCP was created to fill the regulatory gap following the closure of AHDB Horticulture, coordinating the entire process—from technical trials to application submissions to the Chemicals Regulation Division (CRD) of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The organisation is governed by a board elected by its member crop associations and funded through voluntary subscriptions.

With over 30 participating crop associations, HCP provides essential regulatory support across the UK horticulture sector. Its expert team, including experienced crop protection specialists, ensures growers continue to have access to the plant protection products necessary for sustainable and high-quality crop production. Through its partnership with GB Potatoes, HCP now plays an instrumental role in safeguarding the future of the British seed potato industry.