According to Announcement No. 736 of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, four restricted-use pesticides—omethoate, carbofuran, methomyl, and aldicarb—will be completely prohibited from sale and use in China starting June 1, 2026.
As the policy transition period enters its final stage, agricultural authorities have issued special reminders to ensure a smooth transition and avoid economic losses and legal violations.
For operators
Entities holding restricted-use pesticide operating licenses may continue to sell the four pesticides during the transition period before June 1, 2026. However, they are reminded to take inventory and arrange for proper, harmless disposal of remaining stocks. After June 1, 2026, no entity will be permitted to sell these products.
For users
Pesticide users may continue to use the four pesticides within their approved scope during the transition period before June 1, 2026. Their use is prohibited on vegetables, melons, fruits, tea, fungi, and Chinese herbal medicines; they are also banned for the control of sanitary pests and for the management of diseases and pests in aquatic plants. After June 1, 2026, all use of these pesticides will be completely prohibited.
Penalties for illegal sale after the deadline
Any entity continuing to sell the four pesticides after June 1, 2026, will be subject to penalties under Articles 44 and 55 of the Pesticide Management Regulations. The competent agricultural authorities of local people’s governments at or above the county level shall order the cessation of operations and confiscate any illegal income, the pesticides involved in the violation, and any tools or equipment used in the illegal activity. If the value of the illegally traded pesticides is less than RMB 10,000, a fine of between RMB 5,000 and RMB 50,000 shall be imposed. If the value exceeds RMB 10,000, a fine of between five and ten times the value of the illegal goods shall be imposed. Where the violation constitutes a criminal offense, criminal liability shall be pursued according to law. In serious cases, the licensing authority shall revoke the violator’s pesticide operating license.
Penalties for illegal use after the deadline
Any individual or entity continuing to use the four pesticides after June 1, 2026, will be subject to penalties under Article 60 of the Pesticide Management Regulations. The competent agricultural authorities of the county-level people’s government shall order the violator to make corrections and confiscate the banned pesticides. If the user is a unit such as an agricultural product production enterprise, a food or edible agricultural product storage enterprise, a professional pest control service organization, or a farmers’ professional cooperative engaged in agricultural production, a fine of between RMB 50,000 and RMB 100,000 shall be imposed. If the user is an individual, a fine of up to RMB 10,000 shall be imposed. Where the violation constitutes a criminal offense, criminal liability shall be pursued according to law.
