Law No. 2/2026 on Pesticides.
Country
Type of law
Legislation
Abstract
This Law establishes a comprehensive legal framework governing the entire lifecycle of pesticides, including their manufacture, import, distribution, use and disposal, with the overarching objective of protecting human, animal and plant health as well as the environment. The law responds to the increasing intensification of agricultural production and the growing use of pesticides, which pose significant risks to ecosystems, biodiversity and public health, particularly in contexts of improper use, weak regulation and exposure of vulnerable groups. The legal regime introduces a strict system based on the mandatory registration of pesticides, scientific risk assessment and the classification of substances into permitted, prohibited and restricted lists. Only pesticides that do not pose unacceptable risks may be authorized. The law also establishes detailed environmental and safety requirements, including the assessment of impacts on non‑target organisms, persistence in soil and water, and the potential contamination of water resources. In addition, it regulates the storage, transport, application and disposal of pesticides and their residues, prohibiting harmful practices such as the use of pesticides for fishing or uncontrolled disposal, in order to prevent damage to ecosystems and biodiversity.
Finally, the law is grounded on key principles such as precaution, prevention, sustainability, responsibility and transparency, and promotes the adoption of safer alternatives and sustainable agricultural practices. It establishes licensing requirements for pesticide‑related activities, mandates training and protective measures for workers, and provides for inspection mechanisms as well as administrative and criminal sanctions to ensure compliance. Overall, the law strengthens environmental and health governance in the agricultural sector, aligns with international standards and contributes to safe agricultural production, protection of natural resources and sustainable development.
Finally, the law is grounded on key principles such as precaution, prevention, sustainability, responsibility and transparency, and promotes the adoption of safer alternatives and sustainable agricultural practices. It establishes licensing requirements for pesticide‑related activities, mandates training and protective measures for workers, and provides for inspection mechanisms as well as administrative and criminal sanctions to ensure compliance. Overall, the law strengthens environmental and health governance in the agricultural sector, aligns with international standards and contributes to safe agricultural production, protection of natural resources and sustainable development.
Attached files
Web site
Date of text
Entry into force notes
This Law enters into force the day after its publication.
Repealed
No
Serial Imprint
Jornal da Republica, I Série, No. 12-A, 26 March 2026.
Source language
English
Legislation Amendment
No
Original title
Lei n.º 2/2026: Pesticidas.