Herbicide banned in 70 countries to be pulled from sale in Australia by chemical maker
Summary
Syngenta will stop selling the herbicide paraquat in Australia because new government rules have made it too costly to sell. Paraquat is banned in over 70 countries due to health concerns, including links to Parkinson’s disease, but it is still used in Australian farming under restrictions.Key Facts
- Paraquat is a herbicide that has been linked to Parkinson’s disease.
- It is banned in more than 70 countries and has not been allowed in the European Union since 2007.
- Australia recently introduced new rules to restrict the use of paraquat, such as banning backpack sprayers and requiring better protective gear.
- Syngenta says these new rules and higher costs in the supply chain make selling paraquat in Australia unprofitable.
- The company will phase out its paraquat products following government deadlines.
- Generic versions of paraquat will still be available to Australian farmers.
- Some experts say there is strong evidence paraquat exposure increases Parkinson’s disease risk.
- Grain industry representatives worry Syngenta’s exit might reduce farming options and affect future investments in Australia.
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