Own Use Import Program

At this time, no products are eligible to be imported under the Own Use Import (OUI) Program. The equivalency certificate for ClearOut 41 Plus Herbicide expired on June 28, 2008.

ClearOut 41 Plus Herbicide is now available for sale and use in Canada under Registration Number 28322 of the Pest Control Products Act.

Following the Own-Use Import Task Force Report, access to the approved OUI product was maintained for two years while the replacement programs and initiatives were being implemented. These include the Grower Requested Own Use (GROU) Program, NAFTA Labelled products and the new data protection policy (for the registration of generic products).

Health Canada is not considering new equivalency applications under the OUI Program. Any product being contemplated may be nominated for consideration under the GROU Program or if appropriate, the new data protection policy.

Health Canada will consider new equivalency applications under the OUI Program if pesticide manufacturers are not willing to cooperate with the GROU Program.

Progress On The 2006 Own-Use Import Task Force Report

The document is a progress update on the 2006 Own-Use Import (OUI) Task Force Report. It outlines the implemented initiatives, programs, activities and related decisions up to fiscal year 2008-2009, resulting from the discussions held by the OUI Task Force. The recommendations were focused on three key areas: the registration of generic pest control products, international regulatory cooperation activities and imports for own use (for agricultural purposes).

Own Use Import Task Force Report

The Own Use Import Task Force has completed its analysis of issues raised as a result of the widespread use of the Own Use Import program in 2005.

The findings and recommendations of the Task Force are found in its report.

The Task Force is recommending a package of initiatives they believe will address pesticide price differentials between Canada and the United States, as well other issues related to agricultural pesticide access. Health Canada agrees with the Task Force's recommendations and is examining how best to implement them.

The current OUI program will continue for 2006. The only product presently approved for importation through the OUI program is ClearOut 41 Plus (United States Environmental Protection Agency Registration number 70829-3). No other products are approved for importation through OUI.

Health Canada wishes to thank the Task Force members for their commitment and objectivity that enabled a consensus to be reached.