FPA readies rules for online sale of pesticides, fertilizers

The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) is not closing its doors on allowing the online sale of fertilizer and pesticide products, pointing out that it is already developing the necessary regulations over the distribution method.

- By JASPER EMMANUEL ARCALAS

FPA said it is committed to developing a “robust” regulatory framework that would facilitate online sale of the key planting inputs once proper safeguards, licensing mechanisms, traceability systems and enforcement controls are in place.

Until such systems are established, FPA pointed out that online selling of fertilizers and pesticides would remain unauthorized.

The agency attached to the Department of Agriculture issued the clarificatory statement after it revoked its previous circular allowing the online sale of fertilizers and pesticides.

In revoking its previous rules, FPA explained that it does not issue licenses or permits authorizing online selling of fertilizer and pesticides in various online platforms.