Differences in pesticide maximum residue limits (MRLs) between regions of the world are prevalent and create commodity trade barriers. Such differences ultimately impact the development and commercial viability of these chemicals, which are essential to production agriculture. Disease and pest pressure varies between global regions. This fact, combined with regionally-specific regulatory and/or efficacy requirements, can lead to significant differences in regional MRLs. MRL differences may also occur as a result of new use patterns for existing products with established MRLs, e.g., the addition of a post-harvest treatment to an existing product label. Definition of the residue of concern (DoR) can also vary regionally, resulting in different MRLs for commodities with identical treatment regimes. One common strategy to harmonize MRLs is through the establishment of import tolerances (ITs) between regions. However, the impact on risk assessments, balancing of regional vs. global business priorities, and regulatory timelines and processes must be considered.

Maximum residue limits (MRLs):  Challenges of a global business

244th National Meeting (2012)

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