The procedures to establish FAO and WHO specifications were amended in 1998. Specifications published under the old procedure are still available. Specifications developed under the two procedures are similar in appearance, but are different in approach and intent. Specifications developed under the old procedure were developed to be applied to any manufacturer’s product. Specifications developed under the new procedure apply only to the products of manufacturers whose data have been evaluated by FAO/WHO through the relevant mechanisms.

FAO/WHO specifications apply only to the products of manufacturers whose technical materials have been evaluated. The specifications may be used to provide an international point of reference against which the quality of products can be judged, either for regulatory purposes or in commercial dealings, thereby helping to prevent the trade, sale and use of inferior quality pesticide products.

Thus, the specifications will enhance confidence in the purchase and use of pesticides and, at the same time, contribute towards better pest control, sound agricultural production, effective vector control measures and improved user, public and environmental safety throughout the world, especially in developing countries.