Overview

• The law allows drone spraying of pesticides on steep agricultural plots, banana plantations, and vine rootstock areas with slopes of 20% or more.
• Signed by President Emmanuel Macron on April 23 during his visit to La Réunion, the law was published in the Journal officiel on April 24, 2025.
• Drone spraying is permitted only temporarily and requires joint approval from the Environment, Agriculture, and Health ministries.
• The law mandates that drone use must demonstrate clear health and environmental benefits compared to traditional ground-based methods.
• Supporters highlight improved worker safety and reduced pesticide use through precision, while critics warn of continued reliance on chemical inputs in agriculture.