Fwd: USMCA FURTHERS U.S. PUSH TO SET GLOBAL RULES ON AG BIOTECH
anthony jackson
from
USMCA FURTHERS U.S. PUSH TO SET GLOBAL RULES ON AG BIOTECH: The U.S., Mexico and Canada have included a new chapter on agricultural biotechnology like genetically modified organisms in USMCA. Experts view that as a major step in America’s effort to export its biotech model around the world.
Sending a message: The inclusion of the language on agricultural biotechnology isn’t expected to change agricultural trade between the U.S., Mexico and Canada. It does, however, send a clear message to other U.S. trading partners, like the European Union and China, which have been criticized for having an unpredictable regulatory approach, said Andy LaVigne, president and CEO of the American Seed Trade Association.
Down to the details: The Trump administration touted the new deal for including binding language that encourages transparency, information exchange, and timely reviews of new products. The deal also supports innovations like gene editing — a more precise way of manipulating an organism’s DNA that doesn’t involve inserting foreign genes, as in the case of GMOs.
Critics argue the new language, if added to future trade deals, would make it more difficult for countries to regulate genetically engineered crops and block shipments of varieties that haven’t been approved. They also say it could limit farmers’ options in the marketplace and further entrench corporate control of new seed varieties and pesticides.