Pesticide residue violations result in significant financial losses for Asia’s agricultural exports, disproportionately affecting small-scale farmers who rely on trade for their livelihoods. To address this challenge, an STDF-funded regional initiative led by the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI) demonstrated how innovative biopesticide use—combined with conventional plant protection methods—can reduce residues and promote safe, sustainable trade. By applying biopesticides at the end of the growing season, pesticide residues were cut in half across key crops such as cabbage, sweet basil, dragon fruit, and chili pepper—vital exports for millions of farmers.
Biopesticides for safer crops and markets
The project targeted eight countries—Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam—balancing the effectiveness of conventional pesticides with the environmental benefits of biopesticides. Unlike synthetic chemicals, biopesticides are naturally derived, producing minimal residues and often exempt from Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs), making them compliant with global trade standards.
In addition to cutting residue levels, the project conducted 18 field studies and laboratory analyses, generating critical data to guide policymaking and harmonize regulations. A Train-the-Trainers model facilitated knowledge-sharing among farmers and scientists, strengthening South-South cooperation. Participants developed expertise in Good Laboratory Practices and Standard Operating Procedures, ensuring lasting results.
Shaping policies for sustainable trade
A comprehensive policy brief outlined the economic and environmental benefits of biopesticides, offering practical guidance for adoption. The project kick-started the alignment of national regulatory frameworks with ASEAN Guidelines on Biological Control Agents, paving the way to streamline biopesticide registration and trade harmonization.
For example, Bangladesh revised its biopesticide regulations with the support of expert consultations and workshops. This harmonized approach reduced trade barriers and encouraged sustainable pest control practices across the region.
Empowering farmers and industry innovation
Farmer engagement was central to the project’s success. Partnering with the Association for Sustainable Rural Development, the project shared critical MRL data with over 327 farmers, empowering them to adopt biopesticides confidently. Social media campaigns further amplified awareness, encouraging sustainable practices.
The project also supported local biopesticide production by training participants in manufacturing techniques and business model development. This opened avenues for private-sector growth, providing affordable, eco-friendly pest control options for small-scale farmers.
Unexpected impacts and global knowledge exchange
Beyond its initial goals, the project spurred complementary initiatives, such as Sri Lanka’s collaboration with the US Commerce Department for a two-year project on pesticide risk assessment.
The project extended its benefits to Pakistan through synergies with an STDF donor, the US Department of Agriculture. Singapore contributed as a regional reference laboratory, providing advanced facilities for training sessions, exemplifying South-South cooperation across the eight beneficiary countries.
Cross-regional exchanges also shared lessons with biopesticide stakeholders in Africa and Latin America, expanding the project’s reach and fostering innovation and knowledge-sharing across continents.
To ensure sustainability, APAARI established an Asia-Pacific Biopesticide Community, creating a platform for regulators, industry and other stakeholders to continue benefiting from the project’s network and advancing sustainable agriculture.
A model for sustainable agricultural progress
Through multi-stakeholder collaboration, South-South cooperation, and global learning, this project demonstrates how innovative solutions can address agricultural challenges. It offers a scalable model—empowering farmers, protecting ecosystems, and enabling safe, sustainable trade across regions.
INNOVATIONS & SCALING UP
Innovating with biopesticides at the end of the crop season has proven effective in reducing pesticide residues and enhancing market access—offering transformative potential for millions of small-scale farmers if scaled up.
LESSONS
- Build partnerships: Form national teams from diverse agencies (government, farmers, agri-food industry) to coordinate efforts and connect with regional groups like ASEAN.
- Share knowledge: Enable peer-led training, ensuring accessibility through local languages and tailored approaches.
- Maintain engagement: Use flexible communication tools (email, social media and calls) to address challenges and keep stakeholders connected.
- Promote cross-regional learning: Share best practices in the region and globally, and provide follow-ups to reinforce knowledge.
- Ensure sustainability: Establish virtual communities for ongoing collaboration and knowledge sharing.
FAST FACTS
- 50% reduction in pesticide MRLs for four key crops (cabbage, sweet basil, dragon fruit, chili peppers)
- 174 scientists trained in biopesticide production and regulatory practices
- 18+ residue mitigation studies conducted on key export crops grown by millions of small-scale farmers
- Regional alignment with ASEAN’s Biological Control Agents guidelines promoted.
This project was implemented by the Asia-Pacific Association of Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI) with partners.
