Sri Lanka has banned the import and usage of the herbicide, glyphosate. The action is based on the belief that glyphosate is the main cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) that is widespread in the country’s North Central Province. The government cites “a significant increase” in the number of CKD patients in some parts of the country, especially in North Central, North Western, Uva and Eastern Provinces. The President, Maithripala Sirisena, banned imports and release of glyphosate. The Department of Agriculture has taken steps to ensure that the ban is strictly implemented throughout the country. Letters have been sent cancelling the permits issued to companies that market glyphosate products in Sri Lanka.
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