Op:Ed: Biopesticides Supporting Sustainable Agriculture in Jordan

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By Abdelmoneim Bakr, Regional Director MENA, CropLife Africa Middle East

Jordan’s agricultural sector has long demonstrated resilience and innovation despite limited natural resources and challenging climatic conditions. As the country continues to strengthen food security and agricultural sustainability, farmers are increasingly seeking solutions that protect crops while preserving soil, water, and biodiversity.

One promising option is biopesticides. Derived from natural sources such as microorganisms and plant-based materials, biopesticides provide targeted pest control and can support the preservation of beneficial organisms and the environment. Their greatest value, however, is realized when they are integrated into Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs alongside cultural, biological, and conventional crop protection measures.

By contributing to resistance management and broadening the range of available pest management tools, biopesticides can help strengthen the resilience, productivity, and sustainability of agricultural production systems.

Recognizing this potential, CropLife Africa Middle East (CLAME), in collaboration with the Jordanian Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), the Jordanian Association of Agricultural Inputs Traders and Producers (AMATPA), and national experts, has supported a series of technical dialogues and capacity-building initiatives aimed at enhancing understanding of biopesticides and their role within IPM programs.

As part of these efforts, four technical workshops were conducted in Amman, Deir Alla, and Ghour Al-Mazraah during November and December 2025, reaching more than 140 agricultural professionals from across Jordan. Participants included extension engineers, pesticide registration specialists, surveillance officers, laboratory personnel, researchers, and private-sector representatives from key agricultural regions throughout the Kingdom.

A particularly encouraging outcome was the strong interest in the practical application of biopesticides. Discussions focused on how these tools can be effectively integrated into crop protection programs through sound agronomic practices, technical expertise, farmer education, and informed decision-making.

Jordan has already established a solid foundation for advancing sustainable agriculture. The active engagement of government institutions, academia, industry, and extension services reflects a shared commitment to innovation and continuous improvement within the agricultural sector.

Encouragingly, growing attention to biopesticides among stakeholders across the agricultural value chain highlights increasing recognition of their potential contribution to integrated pest management and sustainable crop production. Continued dialogue, capacity building, and knowledge sharing will be important to ensure that farmers and agricultural professionals are equipped to make informed decisions regarding their effective use.

While broader integration of biopesticides into crop protection programs will take time, the direction is promising. Through continued collaboration and investment in knowledge and technical capacity, biopesticides can become an increasingly valuable component of Jordan’s IPM approach, helping farmers address current challenges while supporting the long-term sustainability of the agricultural sector.

The momentum seen across Jordan demonstrates a growing commitment to sustainable crop protection and agricultural innovation. By continuing to foster partnerships, strengthen technical expertise, and support farmer-focused solutions, Jordan is well positioned to further enhance its agricultural resilience and serve as a regional example of sustainable agricultural development.

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