Tehran – In a decisive step towards bolstering public health and environmental protection, Iran has banned 14 high-risk pesticides from its agricultural sector.

 

Maryam Jalili Moqaddam, head of the Plant Protection Organization, announced the decision, emphasizing the ongoing development of mandatory standards for 30 additional pesticides.

 

"The removal of these 14 dangerous pesticides is a direct measure to safeguard the well-being of our citizens," Jalili Moqaddam said.

 

She also reassured farmers that the supply of essential pesticides has improved significantly compared to last year, with a multi-disciplinary board, including medical and veterinary experts, overseeing import regulations.

 

“While 12% of Iran's agricultural pesticides are currently classified as high-risk, the vast majority, 78%, are considered low-risk. However, the nation remains vigilant, with Fars and Lorestan provinces facing a heightened risk of wheat rust disease, prompting a nationwide alert.”

 

Beyond domestic safety, Iran is actively expanding its agricultural trade, the official said, adding, “Recent agreements signed with Hungary, Uzbekistan, Indonesia, and the Philippines aim to boost exports. Furthermore, an online tracking system is being implemented to streamline trade with Russia.”

 

Recent inspections by the Food and Drug Administration, encompassing 18,000 samples, have demonstrated a marked improvement in the overall health and safety of Iranian agricultural products, Jalili Moqaddam said.