Issue Concerning Pesticide Control to prevent Residues in Vegetables and Fruits in Thailand

Abstract

         The objectives of this research were as follows: 1) to study concept and theories in term of pesticide control, 2) to study legal measures used in other countries in term of enforcing control over pesticides so as to prevent residues in vegetables and fruits, 3) to study legal measures for enforcing control over pesticides in Thailand, 4) to analyse legal issues concerning pesticide control to prevent residues in vegetables and fruits in Thailand, and 5) to offer legal solutions for pesticide control to reduce pesticide residues in vegetables and fruits in Thailand. This is a qualitative research which aimed to find solutions for the revision and amendment of the related laws, as well as to assign particular roles to government sectors to carry out effective problem-solving regarding unsafe consumption arising from pesticide residues in vegetables and fruits in Thailand.

         The research finding suggested that government should dedicate to public service to prevent residues in vegetables and fruits caused by the use of pesticides. Government should also protect the rights of consumers in accordance with law. Thailand still lack inadequate legal measures, as well as various and appropriate government authorities for effective sustainability governance of pesticide. Therefore, government should enact a pesticide control law to distinguish it from Hazard Substances Act B.E. 2535 (1992), and the law content should cover the rules before, during and after the use of pesticides for cultivation. In addition, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives should have power and duties in relating to pesticide control as well as pesticide cycle life.