Cairo, Egypt
April 16, 2008
Source:
USDA/FAS GAIN report number: EG8008
On March 24, 2008, the Minister of
Agriculture approved decisions made by the National Biosafety
Committee (NBC) and Seed Registration Committee to allow for
commercialization of a genetically modified Bt corn variety.
This marks the first genetically modified crop approved for
domestic planting in Egypt.
A local seed company, acting as an agent of a multi-national
life science company, had originally submitted the request and
accompanying dossier several years ago. During last year’s
growing season, the field trials were conducted and assessed.
The local company plans to import seed both for propagation and
production.
The seed corn will be imported from South Africa. The local
company plans to cultivate the BT corn in 10 governates
throughout Egypt and has already started a campaign to market
the seed to producers and extension agents. |
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