United KingdomSyngenta, a Swiss chemical company, has decided to stop selling paraquat in Australia due to new regulatory restrictions imposed by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA). Paraquat, a herbicide banned in over 70 countries and prohibited in the EU since 2007, has been linked to Parkinson’s disease. While the APVMA concluded that approved agricultural use does not increase Parkinson’s risk, it introduced measures to reduce acute exposure and animal risks. These include phasing out backpack sprayers, requiring additional safety gear, and limiting application rates. Syngenta cited commercial viability concerns, citing a costly supply chain and regulatory hurdles. Despite the withdrawal, generic versions will remain available. Industry representatives expressed concern over the decision’s impact on farming practices.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced view of the issue, covering both regulatory actions and industry responses. It includes perspectives from the APVMA, Syngenta, and industry stakeholders without overtly favoring either side. The framing remains neutral, focusing on factual developments rather than esp
