country when it is imported from neighbouring countries that are located in a region of similar ecology or environments? More concretely, should we regard a Trichogramma species from Malaysia as a foreign species in importing to Indonesia, although the species is also available naturally in the importing country? Semiochemicals are biochemical molecules or mixtures that carry specific messages between individuals of the same or different species. In crop protection, semiochemicals are often used as insect attractants (pheromones), but may also act as repellents. Most of the semiochemical products used worldwide are pheromones used for monitoring pest populations: usually in conjunction with a trap mechanism (e.g. sticky boards, water). Pheromones can be considered as the active substances of plant protection products, if they are used for sexual confusion or mass trapping rather than monitoring. If the pheromone is added to attract insects which are then killed by an insecticide, the pheromone can be considered as an adjuvant in a formulation where the active ingredient is the insecticide. In this case, even where highly active pesticides (such as pyrethroids or fiproles) are used, their deployment is highly targeted: so that impact on the environment and non-target organisms is negligible. The basic regulatory requirements require chemical identification, physicochemical properties, toxicological and eco-toxicological profiles, proof of air concentrations (in case of volatile application), and proof of user safety (for handling and disposal). ASEAN Member States may seek guidance from existing regulations in the EU, US, and by OECD: with simplified requirements (in comparison to synthetic pesticides). These include scientifically-based waivers for specific groups of semiochemicals (e.g. straight-chained lepidopteran pheromones, or SCLP), and general guidance for the evaluation and adequate rationales for other semiochemicals. A “reduced-risk” approach (linked to a fast-track registration) is upheld by the US EPA (especially with regard to SCLP), where the following criteria apply: • Low toxicity and impact on non-target organisms; • Very low rates of use. Although some data requirements are listed in the FAO (2012) guidelines (41), these are not specific to this group of products and contain no guidance on reducing risk. The potential risks associated with the use of semiochemicals could include exceeding the prescribed air concentrations due to improper application, unspecific attraction of non-target or beneficial species, ineffectiveness when used under inappropriate conditions, or the hazard potential of the accompanying ‘killing’ or formulating agent. However, semiochemicals are usually treated as ‘reduced-risk’ pesticides and regulation can be handled faster than conventional chemicals. The regulatory situation for semiochemicals in ASEAN is unclear, sometimes complicated and reflects the fact that semiochemicals themselves have a non-toxic mode of action. While some countries (e.g. Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines) have received applications to register 22 2.3 Semiochemicals
Implementing Biological Control Agents in the ASEAN Region
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