APO (Asian Productivity Organization) will have a 'Seminar on Prospects and Regulatory Framework of Biotechnology: with Special Focus on Genetically Modified Crops' during 3-11 November of this year in Japan.

In the midst of rapidly changing environment of globalization, biotechnology and its applications are expected that they will contribute greatly to addressing current food and agriculture problems by enhancing the biological/economic productivity of plants and animals, argumenting resiliences against such stress as drought, cold, or toxic soils, and developing new products with high economic value.

One notable area in this context is the technologies involving Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs). Various GM crops including maize and soybeans have been developed and are ready commercially produced in some developed countries. In Asia, several countries have started growing GM crops while others have been importing them. The international community has, however, reacted quickly to safety concerns raised by consumers about GMOs.

In this regard, the Codex Alimentarius Commission adopted guidelines for GM crops in July 03 to assure food safety. In addition, to address environmental concerns, the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety in the Convention on Biological Diversity came into force in September 03 to check possible negative impact of GM crops on the environment. Developing countries are facing complex challenges in correctly evaluating the current and future values of GM crops, studying the international framework and its implications, and ensuring safety on a scientific basis.

The objectives of the November Seminar are; to review the latest R&D on biotechnologies with special focus on rice and genetically modified (GM) crops; to review recent changes in the regulation/control of GM crops in major countries; to share knowledge on the development, use, and regulation of GM crops in the region; to discuss major issues and challenges; and to examine effective strategies for each country in the region. The Japan Association for International Collaboration of Agriculture and Forestry (JAICAF) together with the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) will implement the Seminar.

It is noted that RCA has been carrying out regional cooperative project on 'Mutational Enhancement for Genetic Diversity of Rice' and 'Enhancement of Genetic Diversity in Food, Pulses, and Oil Crops' in 2003-04 programme cycles.

For further information, write to agr@apo-tokyo.org