A revised 'International Code of Conduct on the Distribution and Use of Pesticides' should significantly reduce the threats posed by agro-chemicals in developing countries. The Code was adopted by the FAO Council. 
"Pesticide use will continue to be a major factor in agricultural production. However, the improper distribution and use of pesticides and highly toxic compounds, in particular in developing countries, continues to cause health and environmental problems.The new Code reflects more strongly than ever the responsibility of governments, the chemical and food industry, traders, pesticide users, public interest groups and international organizations in reducing the health and environmental risks associated with pesticide. It promotes Integrated Pest Management and natural pest control systems. If all parties concerned applied the Code, many lives would be saved, environmental damage would be avoided and agricultural production would become more sustainable.The voluntary FAO Code has raised awareness of pesticide hazards since its adoption in 1985. Most developing countries have introduced legislation or regulations related to the distribution and use of pesticides. However, a strict enforcement of the Code is now required. The adoption of the new Code was not easy. Different interpretations on product protection among countries reflected conflicts of interest between large multinationals and smaller companies that mainly produce generic products. This delayed the adoption of the Code by one year. 
The Code is the globally accepted standard for pesticide management."said Gero Vaagt, Senior Officer, Pesticide Management. 
In many developing countries, the use of pesticides remains a major risk. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that each year there are 25 million cases of pesticide poisoning and as many as 20,000 unintentional deaths, primarily in developing countries. Long-term effects of regular exposure to pesticides often cause chronic illnesses, including cancer, reproductive and neurological effects. While more than 80 percent of pesticides are applied in developed countries, 99 percent of all poisoning cases occur in developing countries where regulatory, health and education systems are weakest. 
In many of the poorest countries agro-chemicals are not handled or stored within even minimal standards. Highly toxic products are easily available while protective clothing is often too expensive for poor farmers or impossible to wear in humid and hot environments. 
The FAO Code sets standards for governments, the pesticide, food and equipment industry, traders, environmental and consumer groups, trade unions and international organizations and strengthens the monitoring and observance of these standards. Governments, the pesticide industry and international organizations recognize the voluntary Code. Compliance with the Code is obligatory for the members of Crop Life International, the international association of pesticide manufacturers. Several governments have incorporated the Code, or parts of it, into their national pesticide legislation. 