Agriculture
Developed Countries Use More Pesticides but Maintain Safer Food Standards, Bangladesh Still Struggles
THT Report • October 21, 2026
Developed countries such as the United States and Japan, as well as several European nations, reportedly use more pesticides per unit of farmland than Bangladesh. Despite this, their agricultural products generally meet strict food-safety standards, while Bangladesh continues to face concerns over pesticide residues and unsafe food.Pesticide use is considered necessary to protect crops and meet the country’s growing demand for food. However, industry representatives allege that some groups are focusing only on the harmful effects of pesticides instead of seeking scientific solutions to ensure their safe and responsible use.
Agricultural specialists say pesticides are highly regulated chemicals and that the main problem is often not the product itself but its improper selection, application and management. Food safety depends on using approved pesticides at the correct dose, following the required pre-harvest interval and keeping chemical residues within the permitted maximum residue limits.
Developed countries increasingly use sensor-based precision agriculture to determine where, when and how much pesticide should be applied. They also monitor residue levels and observe mandatory waiting periods before harvesting crops, helping to keep pesticide residues within legally accepted safety limits.
Bangladesh’s subtropical climate naturally creates favourable conditions for pests and crop diseases. Although pesticides remain an important crop-protection tool, many farmers reportedly lack adequate knowledge about hazard symbols, correct doses, application schedules and waiting periods. In some cases, crops are harvested and marketed before the required safety period has passed.
Unlicensed pesticide shops, inadequately trained sellers and the sale of counterfeit or substandard products are also creating risks. Farmers may be misled into purchasing unsuitable products, resulting in crop damage, financial losses and potential threats to food safety.
Pesticide businesses have called for regular action against counterfeit and low-quality products, strict monitoring to prevent unauthorised industrial-grade chemicals from entering agriculture, and expanded training for farmers through the Department of Agricultural Extension.
Specialists believe Bangladesh can reduce harmful residues by improving farmers’ skills, enforcing maximum residue limits, observing pre-harvest intervals, expanding residue testing and strengthening coordinated field-level monitoring. A science-based system combining responsible pesticide use, modern technology and effective regulation is essential to achieving safer food.