glyphosate, he will state whether consideration will be given for the banning thereof and ensuring the imple…
(No. A/10) Dr. Ms B. Thannoo (Second Member for Quartier Militaire & Moka) asked the Minister of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries whether, in regard to glyphosate, he will state whether consideration will be given for the banning thereof and ensuring the implementation of safe agro-ecological practices to protect both human health and nature having regard to the high incidence of cancer, especially, among women whose reproductive bodies have been scientifically proven to absorb more toxins emanating from chemical pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers.
Reply: The importation of glyphosate and glyphosate-based herbicides is currently authorised for use in Mauritius under strict regulatory control in accordance with the Dangerous Chemicals Control Act 2004. Under this Act, only licensed importers are authorised to import glyphosate and glyphosate-based herbicides in its granular form. The product is applied in the fields as per the “directions for use” on the label while using the appropriate personal protective equipment. In light of international concerns regarding the potential health risks of glyphosate, including recent findings from the Ramazzini Institute linking long-term exposure to carcinogenic effects, my Ministry is adopting a precautionary approach. A Technical Committee together with The Dangerous Chemicals Control Board is closely monitoring emerging scientific evidence and international regulatory developments with regard to glyphosate. At this stage, while an outright ban is not being implemented, the Ministry is giving due consideration to – • restricting its use in sensitive and public areas, including roadsides; • strengthening control over importation, distribution and application, and • promoting safer alternatives. Furthermore, emphasis is being placed on the progressive adoption of agro-ecological practices, including – • reduction in reliance on chemical inputs; • training on the safe use of pesticides and herbicides, and • encouragement of environmentally sustainable farming methods. My Ministry is also mindful of concerns regarding vulnerable groups, including women, and the broader issue of exposure to chemical pesticides. In this context, public sensitisation, proper use of personal protective equipment, and responsible handling of pesticides are being reinforced. While glyphosate remains authorised based on current international assessments, my Ministry is pursuing a balanced, science-based and precautionary policy, which includes risk reduction measures and a gradual transition towards safer agro-ecological alternatives, with the overarching objective of protecting both human health and the environment. GOVERNMENT PROGRAMME 2025-2029 – 40-HOURS’ WORK WEEK ESTABLISHMENT – MEASURES