Genetically modified food has been a focus of an international forum involving officials from 18 Asia-Pacific countries who gathered in Canberra to discuss agricultural biotechnology.

Australian Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Peter McGauran, welcomed the discussions which occurred at the sixth meeting of the APEC High Level Policy Dialogue on Agricultural Biotechnology, held last weekend.

“Biotechnology, including genetic modification (GM), has the potential to provide farmers with significant benefits by cutting costs and increasing the ability of plants to cope with water stress, salinity, pests and diseases,” Mr McGauran said.

“Such technology could also help farmers produce crops with greater nutritional value, such as healthier oils.
“Senior scientists used the forum to discuss global climate issues and the potential for biotechnology to help farmers face up to the challenge of climate change. Farmers shared their experiences with delegates by highlighting the benefits of GM crops.”

Mr McGauran said there was a need to continue building public confidence in the use of biotechnology in agriculture.

“We need to create the opportunity for producers, consumers and industry to make informed choices about the use of GM crops and products on the basis of balanced information. It is also vital that we continue to protect human health and the environment.

“This process is backed up in Australia by a strong biotechnology research effort and a strong gene technology regulatory framework.”

The APEC High Level Policy Dialogue on Agricultural Biotechnology is an important forum that provides an opportunity to promote the development of public policy that supports the responsible use of agricultural biotechnology.