The Global Presence and Regulatory Framework of Plant Biostimulants and Growth Regulators: An Overview

The agricultural industry is witnessing a growing reliance on plant biostimulants (PBs) and growth regulator-based products to enhance crop productivity and resilience while reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. These products, derived from biological or chemical sources, play a vital role in modern agricultural practices. However, their 4 global presence and regulatory framework present intricate challenges and opportunities. This chapter explores the current landscape of PBs and growth regulator-based products on a global scale, focusing on their utilization, regulatory frameworks, and market dynamics. It examines the diverse range of products available, including microbial inoculants, seaweed extracts, humic substances, and synthetic growth regulators, and their respective roles in improving plant growth, uptake of nutrients, and resilience to stress. Furthermore, the presented topic delves into the regulatory frameworks governing these products across different regions and countries. It highlights variations in regulatory approaches, ranging from product categorization to registration requirements for commercialization. The complex interplay between regulatory bodies, industry stakeholders, and scientific communities shapes the market access and commercialization pathways for these products.