Each year, thousands of pesticides, including insecticides, herbicides, nematicides and rodenticides, amongst others, are sold and used across South Africa. The department of agriculture has rolled out an online pesticide application system, replacing outdated paper processes.
The sale and use of these products is strictly regulated under the Fertilisers, Farm Feeds, Agricultural Remedies and Stock Remedies Act.
According to the department, its key regulatory activities include assessing and registering pesticides, issuing and managing permits, monitoring compliance with registrations, and investigating suspected cases of non-compliance, traditionally implemented through a lengthy paper-based process.
“In December 2023, the department launched the online application system for the pesticides leg of agricultural inputs that allows applicants to submit applications electronically. Over the past 18 months, the department has conducted training sessions and piloted the system with industry stakeholders,” the department said.
Online system is faster
The minister of agriculture, John Steenhuisen, welcomed the system rollout as a milestone in modernising agricultural governance.
“Previously, applicants had to travel to the department’s offices to file paperwork manually, a lengthy and often frustrating process. By going digital, the department is eliminating unnecessary delays and creating a ‘fast lane’ for companies that comply with requirements from the start,” he said.
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The department promised that applicants would have real-time information on the status of their application. The online system is already live, and applicants are strongly encouraged to use it. The department cautions applicants that it will no longer accept manual applications for pesticides from 1 April 2026.
“In today’s fast-paced world, both government and industry must embrace innovation to remain competitive. This system will not only improve service delivery, but also ensure that compliant applicants are processed quickly while non-compliant applications are identified upfront,” Steenhuisen said.
He added that it requires the pesticide industry and the department to work together to leverage the benefits the system offers. The rollout will begin with pesticides and expand to other regulated agricultural inputs over time.
“The department is confident that the new system will significantly improve turnaround times, strengthen compliance, and build greater trust between industry and government,” he said.
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