These guidelines provide detailed guidance for governments in the registration of products commonly known as biological pesticides (i.e. microbial, botanical and semio-chemical pest control agents). The guidelines describe the different type of products, list and discuss their respective data requirements, explain how to evaluate the test results, explain how and where the products differ from chemical pesticides, and indicate where particular attention is needed.

The guidelines also discuss the labelling of biological products and identify criteria for granting them a fast-track registration, which is often justified due to their having a low-risk profile or being used in very small quantities.

The guidelines are harmonized with the corresponding guidelines published by other international organizations.