Australia Proposes Suspension of Dimethoate-Based Agrochemical Products for Berry Crops Amid Rising Health Concerns
07 August 2025, Australia: In a significant regulatory development for the agrochemical industry in Australia, the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) has proposed the suspension of certain dimethoate-containing pesticide products. This proposed action affects the use of dimethoate on blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries, following new consumption data that could affect consumer safety thresholds.
The APVMA’s decision follows updated findings from Food Standards Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ), which revealed that Australian consumption of these berries has increased substantially since the last dimethoate reassessment in 2017. This surge in intake prompted a reassessment of the potential dietary exposure to chemical residues, particularly those resulting from the application of dimethoate in accordance with existing label instructions.
Health Safety Concerns Trigger Reassessment
The regulatory body found that, although dimethoate residues were not likely to pose an immediate serious health risk, they did not provide a sufficient safety margin between actual residues and the maximum acceptable dietary exposure level. As a precautionary measure, the APVMA has proposed suspending the product registrations and label approvals for dimethoate when used specifically on these three berry crops.
It is important to note that all other approved uses of dimethoate remain unaffected, and no regulatory changes are currently proposed for other chemicals used on blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
Temporary Measures and Industry Consultation
Should the proposed suspension be enacted, a deemed one-year permit would automatically come into effect. This interim permit would allow continued usage of dimethoate on the affected berries but with a mandatory 14-day pre-harvest withholding period.
The APVMA has opened a 20-day consultation window for agrochemical product registrants, industry stakeholders, and the public to respond. Stakeholders can provide scientific data or other relevant information to argue why the proposed suspension should not be implemented. Submissions must be submitted by 2 September 2025 and must directly address the reasoning for the proposed regulatory action.
During the consultation period, existing registered dimethoate products can still be legally used in line with current label instructions.
The APVMA has assured that all feedback will be thoroughly reviewed before a final regulatory decision is made.
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