Denmark continues exporting banned pesticide dimethoate to Bolivia, Pakistan, and Ethiopia

Farmers in Bolivia, Pakistan, and Ethiopia can use the pesticide dimethoate to eradicate pests like grasshoppers and beetles that threaten wheat harvests. However, this chemical has toxic effects and was banned in the EU to protect farmers, consumers, and the environment. Despite this ban, Denmark continues to export the prohibited pesticide to these countries.

A review of export permits from the European Chemicals Agency shows that dimethoate, classified as an organophosphate that attacks the human nervous system, has been illegal in Denmark since 2013 and throughout the EU. Kira Marie Peter-Hansen, a member of the European Parliament, expressed surprise at Denmark’s continued allowance of these exports, questioning how the country can accept practices that harm fertility, health, and nature elsewhere while knowing their effects.

A coalition of major EU interest groups representing both agriculture and nature recently called on member states, including Denmark, to stop the export of illegal pesticides. This request was highlighted in “The Strategic Dialogue,” a report aimed at shaping future EU agricultural policies. According to a climate analyst, the report aligns with Denmark’s recent green initiatives, noting that countries like France, Belgium, and Germany have already begun to implement national bans.

Environment Minister Magnus Heunicke stated that he would pursue a collective EU ban at an upcoming ministerial meeting, but this does not align with the interest groups’ push for national prohibitions. Kira Marie Peter-Hansen argued that Denmark should take the lead in banning the production and sale of dangerous pesticides.

An investigation revealed that dimethoate is stored at the FMC chemical factory, which has been linked to pesticide exports. Although there were previous calls for a national ban, arguments for a unified EU solution have stalled, partly due to opposing views within the European chemical industry advocating for international rather than EU-level bans.