Australia’s chemical regulator has decided to keep the controversial weedkiller paraquat legal, despite it being banned in more than 70 countries over concerns about links to Parkinson’s disease.

The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) announced that the herbicide can continue to be used under stricter safety controls, including reduced application rates and tougher protections for farm workers.

The regulator said its review of scientific evidence did not establish a direct causal link between approved paraquat use and Parkinson’s disease.

However, health experts, neurologists and advocacy groups have criticised the decision, arguing that growing research shows a strong association between exposure to the chemical and the neurological disorder.

Farmers’ groups welcomed the ruling, saying paraquat remains an important tool for weed management and sustainable farming practices.

The decision is expected to reignite debate over public health, agricultural productivity and Australia’s approach to chemical regulation.