UK Bans Dimethomorph Fungicide

November 5, 2026 · Tarım Pusulası

The UK has decided to phase out the use of dimethomorph, a fungicide commonly used in viticulture and vegetable production.

Ban on Dimethomorph and its Rationale

The use of dimethomorph, a systemic fungicide widely preferred for managing downy mildew in grapes and late blight in tomatoes and potatoes, will end in the UK as of November 30, 2026. Reviews conducted by the UK's Health and Safety Executive (HSE) concluded that the active substance no longer meets current legal criteria. A phased withdrawal of this chemical, which prevents oomycete-borne fungal infections by penetrating plant tissues, has been decided.

Timeline for Sales and Use

A phased transition timeline has been established to prevent hardship for agricultural producers and to allow for the clearance of products on the market. According to HSE regulations, manufacturers and distributors will be able to sell plant protection products containing dimethomorph until May 31, 2027. Farmers will have until May 31, 2028, to use, store, or dispose of existing stocks in their depots for agricultural production.

European Union Process and Trade Negotiations

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) identified risks to reproductive health and potential endocrine disruption in its assessment, leading the European Commission not to renew its approval via implementing regulation 2024/1207. While farmers' rights to use existing stocks across the EU expire in May 2025, negotiations are ongoing under the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures Agreement between the two parties. According to Glavagronom news, the outcome of these diplomatic contacts could lead to the withdrawal of other pesticides from the UK market.

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