Argentina bans 2,4-D and applies sanctions against those who break law

By Leonardo Gottems, reporter for AgroPages

The ban on the use and sale of 2,4-D in its “butyl and isobutyl ester” formulation, which has been in force since July 24, is already being inspected in Argentina.

The measure was implemented by Senasa (National Food Safety and Quality Service), and also included sanctions against those who import, prepare and fractionate the herbicide.

"The application and use of these formulations can damage agricultural, forestry or other cultures, due to their high volatility in different regions of the country," the Argentine Senasa said while justifying the decision.

Gustavo Balbi, engineer and general director of Inspection and Control of the government agency in the city of Córdoba (Northern Argentina), stated, “Today there are technologies that go far beyond the use of this type of tools and we must adapt to their use for an increasingly sustainable and productive development.”

In case of non-compliance, Senasa has ordered confiscation, suspension or any other measure that is advisable, depending on the circumstances of the risk to public health or the environment.