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On 11 April 2025, Kenya notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) that several previously circulated standards covering 12 fertilizers have now been officially adopted. Published in the Kenya Gazette Notice No. 16886 on 20 December 2024, the adoption marks the formal transition of the draft texts into national standards, contributing to harmonized regulatory practices across the East African Community (EAC). 

Adoption of East African Standards 

In 2023, five East African Community countries (Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda), notified the WTO of draft standards concerning various fertilizers. The majority of these drafts have now been adopted and include detailed provisions on product sampling, packaging, labelling, and allowable levels of heavy metals. The aim is to enhance environmental safety and public health. 

Background on East African Standards 

The development of harmonized East African Standards is driven by the need to unify quality benchmarks for goods and services across EAC member states. This harmonization is intended to eliminate technical barriers to trade and facilitate the seamless exchange of goods and services within the region. 

To achieve this, the East African Standards Committee was established. The committee comprises representatives from national standards bodies, private sector entities, and consumer organizations. Draft standards are circulated for public comment via national standards bodies, after which stakeholder feedback is reviewed and incorporated before final adoption. 

These standards are dynamic and subject to periodic review to reflect advancements in technology and emerging regulatory needs. Stakeholders are advised to ensure they always refer to the latest version when implementing these standards. 

Focus on Fertilizers Standards 

The newly adopted draft standards cover various types of fertilizers, including organic, foliar, urea, and phosphate-based fertilizers as well as guidelines for their safe handling and storage. The intent is to ensure uniform quality, safe usage, and environmental protection. 

The adopted standards include: 

Conclusion

The adoption of these standards marks a significant milestone in regional integration efforts, by aligning regulatory practices across East African countries. By standardizing the chemical composition, labeling, and handling of key agricultural and public health products, the region is moving closer to achieving a safer, more efficient, and more environmentally sustainable trading environment. These efforts not only strengthen internal trade within the EAC but also enhance the region’s competitiveness in global markets. 

On 31 March 2025, the South African government officially introduced the Regulations for the Management of Mercury, 2024, published by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and he Environment (DFFE). Finalized in 2024, these new rules represent a significant change in the nation's approach to controlling hazardous compounds marking a significant step toward environmental protection and public health. In addition to strictly regulating the use, storage, trading, and disposal of mercury, these new rules set strict phase-out deadlines for mercury-added items beginning on 1 April 2025. 

Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) 

The DFFE is committed to upholding every South African's right to a clean and healthy environment. With a strong focus on sustainability and conservation, the department is at the forefront of initiatives in responsible environmental stewardship, safeguarding natural resources for current and future generations. Its work not only enhances community well-being but also supports international efforts to protect the planet. 

National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (South Africa) 

The National Environmental Management Act (NEMA), 1998 is a key South African law that provides the framework for environmental protection and sustainable development. It promotes responsible resource use, public participation, and the precautionary principle to ensure that economic development does not harm the environment. 

Key Highlights: New Mercury Regulations in South Africa (2024) 

South Africa has introduced the Regulations for the Management of Mercury, 2024 to control and reduce the use, trade, and storage of mercury and mercury-added products. 

Purpose of the regulations 

The purpose of the regulations is to: 

• Promote environmentally sound mercury management. 

• Phase out mercury-added products (MAPs). 

• Regulate mercury use in manufacturing. 

• Control of mercury trade and storage. 

Scope of Application 
The regulation applies to: 

• Importers, exporters, sellers, and users of mercury or MAPs. 

• Manufacturers using mercury in products or processes. 

The regulations  do not apply to mercury emissions or mercury waste. 

Phase-Out of Mercury-Added Products 

Mercury-added products will be banned after set dates (starting 1 April 2025), including: 

• Fluorescent lamps 

• Thermometers and pressure-measuring devices 

• Mercury-containing batteries 

• Cosmetics with mercury >1ppm 

• Dental amalgam in certain cases 

Entities must submit Mercury Phase-out Plans within 1 year. 

Phasing Down of Dental Amalgam 

• Use is restricted to pre-dosed capsules (max 0.58 ml). 

• Ban the use of bulk mercury by dental professionals. 

• Use is not allowed for children under 15, or for pregnant or breastfeeding women (except where necessary). 

• Dental facilities must install amalgam separators (95% efficiency) by 1 April 2026. 

• Importers/exporters must submit Mercury Phase-down Plans. 

Trade and Import/Export Controls 

• The import/export of mercury and MAPs is banned, except for limited dental, research, or storage use. 

• Notification to the DFFE is required for any approved import/export. 

Restrictions on Mercury in Manufacturing 

• Mercury use is banned in listed manufacturing processes after the phase-out dates. 

• New mercury-using processes are not allowed without written Ministerial approval. 

• Mercury releases to land or water must be prevented. 

Storage and Reporting Requirements 

• Interim storage must meet hazardous chemical laws. 

• Mercury stockpiles must be declared to the DFFE within 2 months. 

• Annual compliance reports are due by 31 March every year. 

Conclusion 

The Regulations for the Management of Mercury, 2024 mark a critical step forward in South Africa’s commitment to environmental sustainability and public health. By phasing out harmful mercury-added products, tightening controls on trade and manufacturing, and promoting safer alternatives, especially in dental care, these regulations align the country with global best practices under the Minamata Convention. As industries, healthcare providers, and government departments work together to implement these measures, South Africa is moving closer to achieving a safer, cleaner, and more sustainable future for all. 

The full text of the regulations can be found here.