EU Ships 122,000 Tonnes of Banned Pesticides to Poorer Nations in 2024

Companies in the EU exported nearly 122,000 tonnes of banned pesticides in 2024, a 50% increase since 2018. The chemicals, deemed too hazardous for use within Europe, were shipped to 93 countries—mostly low- and middle-income nations. Critics are now pushing the European Commission to halt the controversial trade practice.

The largest volumes of exported banned pesticides included 1,3-dichloropropene, glufosinate, and mancozeb. BASF led the exports, followed by Teleos Ag Solutions, Agria, Corteva Agriscience, and Syngenta. While exact destination data remains unclear, reports suggest many shipments went to regions like South America, including Mercosur countries such as Brazil.

Europe's pesticide regulations are among the strictest globally, yet the bloc continues to produce and export chemicals it prohibits domestically. Scientists have warned of potential harm to people and ecosystems in importing nations, urging an immediate stop to the exports. The industry, however, argues against unilateral bans, claiming that countries should decide their own agricultural needs.

The European Commission is now under growing pressure to act. Proposals include taxing exporters and using the funds to help low- and middle-income countries strengthen their pesticide regulations. Another option being explored is a full ban on producing and exporting hazardous chemicals already prohibited in the EU.

The EU exported 122,000 tonnes of banned pesticides in 2024, with most shipments reaching poorer nations. As calls for stricter measures grow, the commission is weighing solutions—from export taxes to outright bans. The outcome could reshape how Europe handles chemicals it deems unsafe for its own use.