Agricultural Pesticide Control Act (Act No. 21/2019).

This Act provides for the import, export, manufacture, sale, use and disposal of pesticides used in agriculture. Chapter 1 lays down the objectives of the Act, including implementation of the obligations of Maldives under international treaties; regulation of pesticides import, export, manufacturing, and sale; implementing safety measures in the handling of pesticides to protect against the hazards caused by pesticides; and other objects mentioned therein. Chapter 2 contains provisions relating to responsibility for the management of pesticides and enforcement of the law including administrative responsibilities. The Minister responsible for agriculture is primarily responsible for implementation of this Act. An Advisory Committee on Pesticides is also set up to provides advice and consultation on promoting the objects and implementation of the Act.
Chapter 3 provides for the registration of authorized pesticides. The procedure for authorization of pesticides is laid down along with the considerations for approval of pesticides. This includes impact on human and animal health, environmental risks as well as toxic effects on fish and marine environment. The Ministry shall maintain a register of pesticides approved under section 8 of the Act. Chapter 4 makes provisions in respect of the use and handling of pesticides and prohibits any usage contrary to the directions mentioned on the packaging. It requires that necessary safety measures should be undertaken and protective equipment must be used while handling pesticides. Any adverse effects must be reported immediately. Further, provisions relating to disposal of pesticides, usage of non-approved pesticides, packaging and labelling, storage and transport are also laid down.
Chapter 5 provides for issuance of licences and permits for the manufacture, import or export and sale of pesticides. Chapter 6 requires inspections with regards to the import, export, manufacture, packaging, repackaging, labelling, storage, sale, use and disposal of pesticides. The powers and duties of inspectors are laid down. Chapter 7 contains the offences and penalties. Chapter 8 provides for the power of Minister to make regulations under the Act and contains the definitions.