The agricultural sector accounts for a large share (4-27%) of SADC Member States' Gross Domestic Product, and approximately 13% of their overall export earnings. Although agricultural exports are a major contributor to the economies of SADC Member States, some countries in the region experience significant economic losses due to the rejection of agricultural produce exports, due to non-compliance with relevant residue standards or Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs). Exceedance of established MRLs is particularly common, especially for crops in which certain synthetic chemical pesticides are used to control late-season pests. Strategic use of biopesticides has the potential to significantly mitigate pesticide residues, since most of these pest control products are not subject to MRLs within importing countries. However, despite the advantages of biopesticides, their widespread adoption and use are affected by challenges in respect of their research, development, registration and commercialisation. The use of biopesticides can go a long way towards reducing pesticide usage, and in so doing resolve residue violations caused by extensive synthetic pesticide usage. Compliance with MRL requirements would increase the agricultural sector’s contribution to the economies of SADC countries, through enhanced exports, the promotion of domestic employment, wealth creation and poverty reduction.

The primary participants of the project include national (bio)pesticide regulatory authorities, national plant protection organisations, researchers, farmers, industry associations, agri-food export companies, and consumers.