Directive No. Z/21 of 2003 on combating the Indian Red Palm Worm.

This Directive is composed of 4 articles. Article 1 deals with terms and definitions. All owners of lands cultivated with palms should permit the control and inspection of palm trees by specialists of the Ministry of Agriculture (art. 2). Article 3 decrees the following measures to be taken by the aforementioned landowners in case of the presence of the Indian Red Palm Worm: (a) to cooperate with the Agriculture Department in laying traps to attract the worm; (b) to treat afflicted trees by the use of suitable pesticides according to the instructions of the Plant Protection Department; and (c) to uproot, cut, burn and bury all afflicted trees. Article 4 contains offences and penalties.