Ministry Enforces 3 Major Areas for Pesticide Safety and Rigorous Residue Monitoring

Mauritius is set to implement a more rigorous regulatory framework for pesticide use following a high-level validation workshop held on 6 May at the Labourdonnais Waterfront Hotel.

The meeting focused on refining draft regulations designed to enforce the Pesticides Use Act of 2018.

These new measures aim to strictly govern how chemicals are mixed and applied, establish mandatory training and certification for users, and enhance the monitoring of pesticide residues in both locally grown and imported produce.

A Robust Regulatory Framework

The initiative, organised by the Ministry of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries, marks a significant step toward modernising the nation’s agricultural governance.

Minister Arvin Boolell emphasised that while pesticides remain a component of agricultural production, a “solid regulatory framework” is now essential.

The Minister stated that the priority is the protection of public health, food security, and the environment. This will be achieved through:

• Rigorous application of international standards.
• Continuous surveillance systems.
• Reinforced scientific evaluations.

Global Partnership for Sustainability

Supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the workshop is part of a broader effort to strengthen environmental practices.

Alka Bhatia, the UNDP Resident Representative for Mauritius and Seychelles, highlighted the importance of inclusive dialogue and partnerships in building safer, more sustainable agrifood systems.

The session brought together key stakeholders to ensure the 2018 legislation moves from paper to practice, aligning Mauritian agriculture with global safety and environmental expectations.

Source: l’Express