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USDA/FAS GAIN report: Republic of South Africa, Annual Biotechnology Report

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Pretoria, South Africa
July 16, 2007

Report highlights

South African farmers plant genetically modified (GM) corn, cotton and soybeans. South Africa’s acreage of GM crops account for approximately 92 % of South Africa’s cotton, 44% of corn, and 59% of soybeans. Clearly GM products have a wide appeal with South African farmers. They appreciate that GM crops use fewer inputs and have higher yields, and are easier to manage than traditional varieties.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The South African Government generally supports biotechnology: transgenic varieties of cotton, corn and soy are approved for commercial planting and account for approximately 92 % of South Africa’s cotton, 44% of corn, and 59% of soybeans.

U.S. agricultural interests in South Africa are wide-ranging and diverse. Wheat is the main U.S. export, followed by many other bulk, intermediate and consumer ready products. Those affected by biotechnology issues are corn, soybeans and seeds (corn, cotton and soybean). Food aid passage through South Africa to other destinations can also be affected by South Africa’s GMO policies.

South African biotechnology regulatory matters are discussed and decided by an Executive Council with representatives from eight departments. An Advisory Committee consisting of experts from around the nation carry out risk analysis on biotech products and give their recommendations to the Council for the final approval of any biotech product. The advisory committee and the Council do not meet frequently and so decisions are often delayed. Still, the regulatory structure in general is very progressive and several genetic transformation
events have received approval for commercial planting. However, recently there have been some public objections from anti-GM lobby groups. These groups are demanding unscientific information from the GMO Registrar’s office of the National Department of Agriculture and have effectively slowed the process for new approvals.

South Africa can play a vital role as other countries in Africa develop biotechnology policies because it has the most resources, such as scientific expertise and financial support, as well as a progressive regulatory system. Without the South African Government’s leadership role in this region, the progress in agricultural biotechnology, or for that matter any technology, can be stifled by anti-technology groups.

Full report: http://www.fas.usda.gov/gainfiles/200707/146291657.pdf

 

 

 

 

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