Mexico Bans Dozens of Toxic Pesticides

In a sweeping move aimed at safeguarding public health and the environment, the Mexican government has officially banned the production, import, distribution, and use of more than 30 highly hazardous pesticides across the country. Many of these are classified as highly toxic, carcinogenic, or persistent organic pollutants under international conventions.

The ban marks one of the most ambitious regulatory steps taken by Mexico in recent years to address environmental contamination and chemical exposure in agriculture. 

Scientific Backing and International Compliance

The decree cites mounting international and domestic scientific research showing the adverse effects of chronic pesticide exposure on human health and the environment. According to Mexican health authorities, long-term exposure is associated with:

• Increased risks of cancer, including leukemia, lymphoma, and various organ-specific cancers

• Neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease

• Disruption of endocrine systems and reproductive health

• Soil and water contamination, affecting biodiversity and food safety

The government also noted the alignment of this decree with international obligations under:

• The Rotterdam Convention (prior informed consent on hazardous chemical trade)

• The Stockholm Convention (elimination of persistent organic pollutants)

• The Montreal Protocol (where applicable to ozone-depleting substances)

Transition Period and Enforcement Measures

While the decree takes effect immediately, authorities have outlined a six-month transition period to ensure proper disposal of existing stocks of the banned substances.

Key provisions include:

• Immediate cessation of all new authorisations, registrations, and permits for the banned substances

• Revocation or cancellation of existing licenses and registrations by relevant federal agencies

• Mandatory final disposal of stored pesticides in accordance with hazardous waste regulations

• Strict exceptions only for scientific research or analytical purposes, subject to federal approval and oversight

Federal agencies, including the Comisión Federal para la Protección contra Riesgos Sanitarios (COFEPRIS), the Ministry of Environment (SEMARNAT), and the Ministry of Agriculture (SADER), are charged with implementing and interpreting the decree. Any pending applications or permits will now be evaluated under the new legal framework.

A New Direction for Mexican Agriculture

The measure is also part of a broader government strategy outlined in the National Development Plan 2025–2030, which emphasises food sovereignty, agroecological transition, and sustainable resource use. Under this vision, Mexico aims to reduce dependence on chemical-intensive agriculture and promote safer alternatives through education, technical support, and the promotion of organic and regenerative farming practices.

What Happens Next?

The decree mandates that within 180 days, relevant ministries must revise existing regulatory frameworks to reflect the new prohibitions. Any further guidance on permitted substances, acceptable alternatives, or exceptions for critical use will be developed and published in the DOF.

Additional Reporting 

For more details on the decree and its implications for Mexico’s agriculture and environment, visit the decree here (in Spanish)