Could you update us on PROCCYT’s objectives and primary purpose?

PROCCYT is the leading industry association representing the agrochemical, crop protection and biotechnology industries. We have 85 members representing the entire agrochemical value chain, including companies that develop new technologies, distributors and associate members that are agricultural producers. Our mission is clear: To promote and support Mexican agriculture, helping the industry grow its yields so that our country and the world have a reliable source of food, while ensuring that these crops are grown sustainably and offer health benefits to the end consumer. 

Agriculture faces multiple challenges: Climate change, natural disasters and regulatory challenges. We focus on transmitting technology to the field where it is most needed while keeping a very close dialogue with regulatory authorities, Congress, and the federal government to communicate the needs and priorities of our industry to the state. 

PROCCYT is part of Crop Life, an international organization of crop protection associations, and are part of the Latin American, North American, and international chapters. This organization is an excellent forum for open dialogue. It allows us to share and interchange experiences with the region and globally, which is imperative given the global nature of so many challenges we face in Mexico. 

Can you discuss some of PROCCYT's safety programs?

We have developed numerous programs to promote agrochemical products' safe and responsible use. CuidAgro is a system of certifications that helps agricultural producers correctly identify agrochemical products and how to manage them safely. In the past year, we have certified over 30,000 people on proper management of agrochemicals. We work with federal and state authorities on this issue.

Another example is Syntox, a 24/7 medical helpline available to anyone who has been harmed by an agrochemical product. We also work closely with local health authorities in agricultural regions to get newly qualified doctors trained and aware of agrochemicals and their hazards. Lastly, CampoLimpio is a nationwide plastics recycling campaign.  

What is the state of agrochemical regulation in Mexico?

Mexico is a highly regulated agricultural and agrochemical market by international standards. Due to the regulatory backlog of approval, innovation in Mexico has paused in the past five years. For example, the average approval time for new agrochemical products is 11 years from submittal, during which a new product will undergo over 120 analytical tests. The sector is highly scrutinized, comparable to the pharmaceutical industry. Mexico is one of the world's greatest producers and exporters of food products, such as avocados, berries, and tomatoes, and being highly regulated is part of this success story, as our goods are internationally recognized.
Nevertheless, regulation should not be purely prohibitive and needs to be smarter. That is why PROCCYT works closely with regulatory bodies to communicate the challenges the field faces and how collaboration can alleviate them. 

How important are trade deals for the Mexican agricultural industry?

The USMCA trade deal has been significant for Mexican agriculture, given that more than 80% of our business is oriented towards North America. USMCA is key to keeping Mexico a global agricultural exporting leader. It is not just an interchange of trade, but also science and technology. PROCCYT led a Mexican industry delegation in Canada this year as part of the trilateral commission on pesticides, and we worked closely with our North American partners to explore the homogenization and alignment of regional regulatory frameworks. Mexico and the region could benefit significantly from such an alignment. 

What trends in the industry have you observed?

There is an irreversible trend towards sustainable and biological products in the industry. The export boom is also driving demand for innovative solutions, such as using drones to spray agrochemicals or geolocation software. 

What are PROCCYT's main priorities for the coming year?

This year's mission is vital: To support the development and investment into sustainable practices, new products, and technologies, such as biotechnologies that support this transition. Although approvals are slow, we will maintain close and open dialogue with regulatory authorities to promote technological innovation. The sector has great opportunities and risks, such as climate change, which can be managed through innovation and development. That is why we are focused on a public communications campaign with all the necessary stakeholders.