Vietnam leads Southeast Asiaâs push for unified biological pesticide standards
Vietnam has launched a regional initiative to standardise the regulation of biological pesticides across Southeast Asia. The programme, backed by government agencies and industry groups, aims to create a unified framework while respecting national differences. It comes as demand for safer, eco-friendly pest control grows in the face of climate-related challenges.
The 30-month ASEAN framework programme will focus on three key areas: reviewing regulations, providing technical training, and strengthening public-private cooperation. Vietnamâs Plant Production and Protection Department, the ASEAN Biopesticide Efficacy Task Force, and CropLife Asia are jointly coordinating the effort.
On the final day of recent meetings, delegates examined Vietnamâs domestic policies and compared ASEAN practices with regulatory systems in other countries. They agreed on a roadmap for 2026â2028, prioritising shared definitions, science-based data standards, and training for regulators. Biological products are not intended to replace chemical pesticides entirely but to complement them within a modern, safe regulatory system. Vietnam also seeks to act as a link between ASEAN governments and industry, with the long-term goal of mutual recognition for product registrations. The push reflects rising pressure on governments to balance food security with environmental protection, especially as climate change worsens pest outbreaks. Vietnamâs biological pesticide market, valued at around VNÄ880 billion (US$34 million) in 2025, is projected to nearly double in the next decade.
The initiative will run until mid-2027, with a focus on harmonising standards while allowing flexibility for individual countries. If successful, it could streamline product approvals across the region and support the growth of safer pest control methods. Vietnamâs role as a coordinator highlights its commitment to both agricultural innovation and regional cooperation.
