The International Code of Conduct on the Distribution and Use of Pesticides describes the shared responsibility of many segments of society, including governments, individually or in regional groupings, industry, trade, international institutions and users of pesticides to work together, so that the benefits to be derived from the necessary and acceptable use of pesticides are achieved without significant adverse effects on people or the environment.

The Code addresses the need for a cooperative effort between governments of pesticide exporting and importing countries to promote practices, which ensure efficient and safe use, while minimizing health and environmental concerns due to improper handling or use.

The entities which are addressed by this Code include: international organizations; governments of exporting and importing countries; industry, including manufacturers, trade associations, formulators and distributors; users; and public-sector organizations such as environmental groups, consumer groups and trade unions.

The objectives of the code are to set forth responsibilities and establish voluntary standards of conduct for all public and private entities engaged in or affecting the distribution and use of pesticides, particularly in countries where there is no or there is an inadequate national law to regulate pesticides.