30 June 2026, New Delhi: India’s ongoing regulatory review of paraquat dichloride has triggered a surge in procurement activity, with several importers reportedly accelerating purchases from China amid growing speculation that the herbicide could face restrictions or a phased ban. While no final decision has been announced, industry sources indicate that manufacturers and traders are attempting to secure volumes and expedite shipments before any regulatory action takes effect.
According to industry sources, the issue gathered momentum following a meeting convened last month by the Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine & Storage under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, during which the Chairman of the Registration Committee under CIBRC reportedly sought a conclusive report on paraquat. A subsequent meeting held this week has further intensified expectations, with stakeholders now awaiting the Minister’s decision.
Market participants believe that if restrictions are introduced, they are likely to follow the phased approach adopted for certain pesticides in the past. Such an approach generally allows registered companies to sell allocated quantities already available in the country, while consignments that are already in transit are typically permitted to enter India and be marketed within the prescribed transition period. However, no official framework has yet been announced for paraquat.
Beyond its approved herbicidal applications, paraquat has gained widespread off-label use in parts of India, particularly as a crop desiccant to accelerate drying of mung bean and soybean before mechanised harvesting. This practice has contributed to sustained demand despite increasing scrutiny over the product’s safety profile and regulatory status.
The uncertainty has also influenced sourcing patterns, with Chinese suppliers reportedly witnessing a sharp increase in enquiries from Indian buyers seeking to lock in supplies ahead of any possible policy change. Until the government announces its final decision, the paraquat market is expected to remain highly active, with importers, distributors and farmers closely monitoring regulatory developments.
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