Rotterdam Convention on the Prior Informed Consent Procedure for Certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade

General Information

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What is it about?

The objective of this Convention is to regulate the international trade of certain pesticides and chemicals and to favour their sound ecological use. It is not intended to ban these products, but rather to ensure that importers are aware of their level of danger and harmful effect on environment and human health. The substances addressed by this Convention can only be exported with the prior and informed consent (PIC) of the importing country. Therefore the 1998 Convention requires States to list hazardous substances produced within their territory. If a country consents to import listed chemicals, the Convention promotes their safe use through labelling standards, technical assistance, and other forms of support. It also ensures that exporters comply with these requirements.

Why is it relevant?

This Convention gives importing countries the tools and information they need to identify potential hazards and exclude chemicals they cannot manage safely. It enables countries to protect its population and environment without depriving them from substances necessary for the development of their industry or agriculture. The provisions of the present Convention are particularly important for developing countries. The 1998 Convention promotes technical assistance to developing economies by countries with know-how in chemical product management

Additional Information

A Party Conference monitors the application of the present Convention.

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