Experts oppose ban on key fumigant

A senior agricultural scientist at Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) has said that the Methyl Bromide (MeBr) fumigation is internationally certified and urged the authorities concerned to avoid any move to reduce or ban its use because such action could negatively impact the country's agricultural exports.

"Since methyl bromide meets international quarantine standards, it plays a crucial role in the export of agricultural products to other countries," he said.

The MeBr is mandated under international phytosanitary regulations to treat grains, fruits, and wooden materials and prevent the spread of invasive pests. According to the agriculturists, all other fumigations such as heat or irradiation are not yet universally accepted under global plant protection standards.

Moreover, regional competitors such as India, Bangladesh, and Thailand continue to use methyl bromide to protect market access, citing the lack of viable alternatives. Stakeholders are urging the government to weigh environmental concerns against the need to safeguard Pakistan's $4 billion agricultural export industry.

Earlier, some agriculture experts supported this fumigation at a seminar by stating that it is a vital element and reliable method for treating all imported agricultural products to prevent the spread of invasive pests and diseases.

The experts added that as a powerful fumigant, MeBr protects commodities like grains, fruits, and wood, eliminating harmful insects, larvae and eggs that may threaten local ecosystems in the country.

The experts stated that it targets insects, nematodes, fungi, bacteria, and weed seeds, making it a reliable method for ensuring that agricultural products are free from harmful organisms.