Herbicide banned in 70 countries, paraquat, is being pulled from sale in Australia by chemical maker Syngenta after new regulations made it commercially unviable. The decision follows restrictions from the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) aimed at reducing acute exposure risks.
What Is Paraquat and Why Is It Controversial?
Paraquat is a highly toxic herbicide used in broad-acre cropping like grains, sugarcane, and cotton. It has been linked to Parkinson's disease and is banned in over 70 countries, including the European Union since 2007. Despite these bans, it remained widely used in Australian agriculture under strict controls.
Find Bleeding Edge Supplements at Scandalous Prices on iHerb.
Health Risks and Parkinson's Disease Link
Numerous studies have associated paraquat exposure with an increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder. The APVMA assessed the evidence and concluded that approved uses do not increase risk, but imposed new restrictions to limit acute toxicity.
Regulatory Actions in Australia
In June, the APVMA announced new rules: phasing out backpack sprayers, mandating additional personal protective equipment, and setting a lower maximum application rate per hectare. Syngenta argued the pesticide does not cause unacceptable environmental impact but acknowledged the regulations made it commercially unviable.
Comparison: Paraquat Bans Worldwide
| Region | Status |
|---|---|
| European Union | Banned since 2007 |
| China | Restricted, phased out |
| Australia | Pulled from sale by manufacturer |
| United States | Still in use with restrictions |
Key Takeaways
- Syngenta will phase out paraquat products in Australia following new regulations.
- The herbicide is banned in more than 70 countries due to health concerns.
- Australian farmers must transition to alternative weed control methods.
- New restrictions focus on reducing acute exposure risks to users and animals.
- The APVMA maintained that approved use does not increase Parkinson's risk.
FAQ
What is paraquat?
Paraquat is a non-selective herbicide used to control broad-leaved weeds and grasses. It is highly toxic and has been linked to Parkinson's disease.
Why is paraquat being pulled from sale in Australia?
New regulations from the APVMA made it commercially unviable for Syngenta to continue selling paraquat in Australia, leading to a voluntary phase-out.
Is paraquat still used in other countries?
Yes, paraquat is still used in some countries like the United States with strict safety measures, but it is banned in the EU and over 70 other nations.
This development marks a significant shift in Australian agriculture, as farmers now face the challenge of finding effective alternatives to paraquat while adhering to tighter safety regulations. The phase-out is expected to occur in line with APVMA timelines.
Browse the Shop
Acacia frida deluxe solid wood bed frame |
Bedroom bench |
Bed chest drawers |
Lingerie dresser |
Frame base |
Mirror with jewelry storage |
30 Bathroom Vanity |
Memory foam queen mattress |
Mattresses for back pain |
Nightstand set of 2 |
Grand Goldman Shop |
Civil Lawyer
Deutschland Trikot WM 2026
