Saudi Arabia has proposed sweeping amendments to its pesticide regulations, introducing prison terms of up to five years and fines of up to SR10 million for manufacturing or importing banned or counterfeit pesticides. The proposals were disclosed by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture as part of a draft update to the penalties article under the GCC Pesticides Law, according to Okaz newspaper. Warnings for minor violations Under the draft regulations, less serious violations that do not cause significant harm to humans, animals, plants, the environment or public health would initially attract a formal warning. Offenders would be granted a grace period to rectify the violation before further action is taken. Tough penalties for serious offences More severe breaches would carry heavy consequences. Anyone found manufacturing or importing banned or counterfeit pesticides could face up to five years in prison, a fine of up to SR10 million, or both. The Public Prosecution would investigate such cases and refer them to the competent court, with penalties doubled for repeat offences. Role of Saudi Food and Drug Authority Violations related to public health pesticides would fall under the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), which would be responsible for reviewing cases […]