The Government of Mexico announced the definitive prohibition of the use, production, commercialization, and import of 35 highly toxic pesticides, in a joint action by the Secretariats of Agriculture, Economy, Environment, and Health.
The measure, published in the Official Gazette of the Federation, represents a historic milestone in the protection of public health and biodiversity, and aims to align the country with the most demanding international standards.
Environmental and Health Commitment: a Debt Settled
President Claudia Sheinbaum highlights the positive impact on the health of Mexicans and the natural environment.
“Many of these pesticides are already banned in dozens of countries. Mexico needed to move in this direction,” Sheinbaum stated.
The decision responds to a historical demand from environmental and scientific organizations that warned about the toxic effects of these substances on humans, animals, and ecosystems.
## Prohibited Substances: Impact and International Background
The banned compounds are included in global agreements such as Basel, Stockholm, and Rotterdam.
The Secretary of Agriculture, Julio Berdegué Sacristán, detailed that among the banned pesticides are:
– Aldicarb: highly toxic insecticide on contact
– Carbofuran: banned in Canada and Europe
– Endosulfan: linked to neurological damage in babies, banned in more than 50 countries
– DDT: globally banned for its persistent effects
These substances have been associated with acute intoxications, cancer, hormonal alterations, and irreversible environmental degradation.
## Modern and Responsible Agriculture: towards the “Second Level” of the Fourth Transformation
The decree is part of a phased strategy that will continue in 2026 and 2027.
The government announced that this is the first phase of a comprehensive plan, which includes:
– New lists of prohibited substances in 2026 and 2027
– Progressive transition for agricultural producers
– Promotion of sustainable alternatives and agroecological practices
This approach aims to reduce dependence on hazardous chemicals and promote a regenerative, safe, and competitive agriculture.
## Sustainability in Agriculture: Key to Health, Food Security, and Biodiversity
The agricultural sector represents an opportunity to lead the ecological transition in Latin America.
Sustainable agriculture implies:
– Rational use of inputs and fertilizers
– Protection of pollinators and wildlife
– Reduction of pollution in soils and waters
– Safe working conditions for laborers
The ban on these pesticides strengthens food security, protects rural communities, and contributes to the resilience of ecosystems against climate change.
## Call to Action: Building a Fairer and Sustainable Mexican Countryside
The government calls on producers, companies, and civil society to join this transformation.
“This is a collective effort for a more prosperous, safe, and responsible countryside,” emphasized Berdegué.
Mexico thus reaffirms its regional leadership in the adoption of responsible agricultural practices and lays the groundwork for a new agroecological era, where human health and environmental integrity are shared priorities.
