DILI, 22 May 2025 (TATOLI) – The Government of Timor-Leste, through the Council of Ministers meeting on Wednesday, approved a draft law on pesticides aimed at strengthening health and environmental protections while promoting sustainable agriculture.
The law, presented by Marcos da Cruz, Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Forestry, seeks to regulate the use and control of pesticides across the country.
“This law proposal aims to regulate, throughout the national territory, the licensing, import and export, production, sale and distribution, use, packaging, and disposal of pesticides, including agricultural pesticides, at all stages of their life cycle,” read a statement.
The law is designed to safeguard human, animal, and plant health, and to protect both land and marine ecosystems. It also supports the government’s broader goal of promoting safe and sustainable agricultural practices.
Once enacted, the legislation is expected to improve food security, reduce environmental risks, and align Timor-Leste with international safety standards in pesticide management.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
