Biotech acreage will sharply increase for a sixth consecutive year according to one of the most important annual indicators of adoption and acceptance of plant biotechnology, the U.S. Department of
Agriculture (USDA) National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) prospective planting report.

The USDA report highlights the growing momentum of support for biotechnology throughout the world. This was further underscored by the approval this week of Monsanto's insect-protected cotton technology in India, the world's third-largest cotton-producing country. 

"Since agriculture biotechnology was first introduced to growers six years ago, we have seen a steady yet sharp increase in the adoption of this technology -- not only in the United States but throughout the world," said Dr. Robb Fraley, chief technology officer for Monsanto.

"Growers understand the important role this science plays on the farm -- whether it's through a reduction in input costs, a savings in time, pesticide reduction or the ability to adapt environmentally sound practices like conservation tillage," he said.

"Millions of farmers are choosing this technology and reaping these benefits," Dr. Fraley said.

Today's USDA report reinforces the important role this technology is playing for growers around the world. In 2001, the number of acres planted with biotechnology traits developed by Monsanto increased by approximately 14 percent to 118 million acres (48 million hectares). Monsanto biotechnology traits were planted on approximately 86 million acres in the United States, and approximately 32 million acres throughout the rest of the world last year alone.

This trend is expected to continue in 2002, as products developed through biotechnology are approved by regulatory agencies throughout the world. Earlier this week, the India government emphasized the important role biotechnology can play for growers and the environment by approving the commercial introduction of Bt cotton. This is the first biotech crop that this Asian country has approved.

Monsanto Company (NYSE: MON) is a leading global provider of technology- based solutions and agricultural products that improve farm productivity and food quality.