Aiming at enhancing efficiency in the agrochemical importation process, Argentina has introduced a new policy that will recognize the equivalency of active substances approved by several leading international authorities. This development, announced through Resolution 694/2024 and published today in the Official Gazette, marks a pivotal shift in the country’s approach to managing agrochemical imports.

A New Era for Agrochemical Imports

The Argentine National Service of Agrifood Health and Quality (Senasa) has formally accepted equivalencies from countries including the United States, Mexico, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Brazil. This decision aligns with Argentina’s ongoing efforts to streamline regulatory processes and reduce bureaucratic barriers for businesses.

Under the new resolution, active substances that meet the technical grade criteria and have been approved by the aforementioned authorities will be recognized, provided they come from the same manufacturing establishment and have equal or higher purity levels compared to those registered in these countries. This move is expected to facilitate quicker and more efficient importation of agrochemicals, benefiting both importers and agricultural stakeholders.

Simplification and Deregulation: A Strategic Approach

The adoption of this policy is part of a broader plan to deregulate and simplify the regulatory framework governing agrochemicals in Argentina. Senasa’s initiative is designed to address the challenges faced by the industry and to enhance the overall efficiency of the importation process. By acknowledging international equivalencies, Argentina aims to align its standards with global practices, making it easier for businesses to comply with regulations while ensuring the safety and quality of agrochemical products.

“This is a significant first step in our ongoing efforts to modernize and streamline our regulatory processes,” said a Senasa spokesperson. “We are committed to working closely with the Secretariat of Simplification of the Cabinet of Ministers to further refine and enhance our regulatory framework. Our goal is to clarify regulations, improve efficiency, simplify procedures, and reduce processing times.”

Looking Ahead: Future Developments

The new policy is expected to be the initial phase of a broader regulatory reform process. Senasa has indicated that future steps will involve additional areas of the agency and further collaboration with other governmental bodies. This comprehensive approach is aimed at consolidating the regulatory framework, ultimately benefiting both the agricultural sector and consumers.

As Argentina embarks on this transformative journey, the recognition of international equivalencies represents a crucial advancement in the country’s agrochemical regulation landscape. It not only promises to streamline operations but also reinforces Argentina’s commitment to global standards and practices.

Argentina has taken a significant step towards expediting its pesticide registration procedure by recognising technical equivalence with seven key countries: the United States, Mexico, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Brazil.

Resolution 694/2024: Key Details

The new Resolution 694/2024, published in 2024, stipulates that equivalency will be granted only if the technical grade active substance to be registered comes from the same manufacturing facility and has ‘the same or higher purity level’ as the product approved in the countries listed above.

By accepting equivalence from countries with strong regulatory regimes, Argentina hopes to speed up the pesticide registration process, lower business costs and increase access to critical agricultural supplies. The decision is anticipated to promote tighter coordination between Argentina and the listed nations on pesticide control, as well as facilitate trade in agricultural goods.

Establishment of National Registry and Regulatory Oversight

The legislation establishes the National Registry of Plant Therapeutics and mandates stringent controls over the production, import, export, and marketing of phytosanitary products used in agriculture.

Key provisions of the legislation include:

National Registry: The creation of a centralized registry to monitor and regulate phytosanitary products.

Industry Responsibility: Strict accountability for those involved in the production and trade of these products.

International Standards: Adoption of global best practices and recognition of equivalence for technical grade active substances based on guidelines from organizations like the World Trade Organization.

Regulatory Alignment: Acknowledgment of leading regulatory bodies such as the US EPA and EU's EFSA for phytosanitary product evaluation.

National Oversight: The designation of SENASA (National Service of Agri-Food Health and Quality) as the authority responsible for registration, trade, and quality control of agri-food products.

Compliance Focus: A strong emphasis on adhering to international standards for health, safety, and quality in agri-food production.

Impact on the Agri-Food Chain

Argentina's dedication to protecting consumers and maintaining global standards in the agri-food industry is evident in this extensive regulatory reform. The legislation aims to protect public health and ensure the quality of agricultural produce. It covers a wide range of products within the agri-food chain, including food, raw materials, additives, animal feed, and fishery products.

*Source