This document provides a briefing on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in South Africa. It discusses:
1) Background on biotechnology and GMOs, the country's biotechnology policy, and potential benefits of GMOs.
2) South Africa's GMO regulatory framework established through the GMO Act of 1997 and amendments aligning with international agreements.
3) The status of GMO crop adoption in South Africa, including which crops are approved and their economic impacts.
4) Procedures for imports and exports of GMOs regarding transboundary movement compliance with international protocols.
International and National guidelines regarding use of genetically modified ...berciyalgolda1
This document provides an overview of international and national guidelines regarding the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the environment, food, and pharmaceuticals. It defines GMOs and the genetic engineering techniques used to create them. It discusses where GMOs are currently used and the safety issues considered in their risk assessments, including potential toxicity, allergenicity, and nutritional impacts. The document also outlines India's regulatory framework for GMOs, including the various committees and guidelines established under the Rules of 1989 to ensure their safe research, development, and environmental release.
ALISON STS REPORT detailed lesson plan ielsiegumoc0
Biosafety aims to prevent harmful effects from biological research through standards and guidelines. Key international agreements related to biosafety on GMOs include the Codex Alimentarius Commission, which develops food safety standards, and the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, which regulates transboundary movements of living modified organisms. The Philippines has approved various GMO applications since 2002 but lacks comprehensive biosafety legislation, though recent joint department circulars aim to establish new regulations.
Biosafety policies and food security issues in Africa can be enhanced through several measures:
1) Widespread adoption of improved seeds, fertilizers, crop protection chemicals, irrigation equipment and farmer training to boost agricultural productivity.
2) Establishing well-functioning markets, infrastructure, and policies to incentivize investment and enable trade.
3) Developing proactive, science-based biosafety regulations and addressing capacity issues to facilitate adoption of genetically modified crops, which modeling shows could provide large economic benefits for countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Ghana.
4) Addressing challenges including limited regulatory expertise, complex decision-making processes, and lack of funding for long-term regulatory
Diran Makinde presented on biosafety policies and food security issues in Africa. He discussed how Africa spends $30-50 billion annually importing food that could be used for infrastructure and development. Key threats to African food security include low soil fertility, poor crop management, pests and diseases. Transforming African agriculture will require improved seeds, fertilizers, markets, policy reforms and building regulatory capacity for crops improved through biotechnology. Challenges include balancing risks and benefits, building human and institutional capacity, and operationalizing complex regulatory frameworks. Sustainable adoption of biotech crops in Africa requires appropriate regulation, research, extension services, and addressing unfair trade issues.
International and National guidelines regarding use of genetically modified ...berciyalgolda1
This document provides an overview of international and national guidelines regarding the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the environment, food, and pharmaceuticals. It defines GMOs and the genetic engineering techniques used to create them. It discusses where GMOs are currently used and the safety issues considered in their risk assessments, including potential toxicity, allergenicity, and nutritional impacts. The document also outlines India's regulatory framework for GMOs, including the various committees and guidelines established under the Rules of 1989 to ensure their safe research, development, and environmental release.
ALISON STS REPORT detailed lesson plan ielsiegumoc0
Biosafety aims to prevent harmful effects from biological research through standards and guidelines. Key international agreements related to biosafety on GMOs include the Codex Alimentarius Commission, which develops food safety standards, and the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, which regulates transboundary movements of living modified organisms. The Philippines has approved various GMO applications since 2002 but lacks comprehensive biosafety legislation, though recent joint department circulars aim to establish new regulations.
Biosafety policies and food security issues in Africa can be enhanced through several measures:
1) Widespread adoption of improved seeds, fertilizers, crop protection chemicals, irrigation equipment and farmer training to boost agricultural productivity.
2) Establishing well-functioning markets, infrastructure, and policies to incentivize investment and enable trade.
3) Developing proactive, science-based biosafety regulations and addressing capacity issues to facilitate adoption of genetically modified crops, which modeling shows could provide large economic benefits for countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Ghana.
4) Addressing challenges including limited regulatory expertise, complex decision-making processes, and lack of funding for long-term regulatory
Diran Makinde presented on biosafety policies and food security issues in Africa. He discussed how Africa spends $30-50 billion annually importing food that could be used for infrastructure and development. Key threats to African food security include low soil fertility, poor crop management, pests and diseases. Transforming African agriculture will require improved seeds, fertilizers, markets, policy reforms and building regulatory capacity for crops improved through biotechnology. Challenges include balancing risks and benefits, building human and institutional capacity, and operationalizing complex regulatory frameworks. Sustainable adoption of biotech crops in Africa requires appropriate regulation, research, extension services, and addressing unfair trade issues.
THE CARTAGENA PROTOCOL - THE CASE FOR ZAMBIAMuunda Mudenda
The Cartagena Protocol is an international treaty that brings together member states, called parties, for the cause of sustainable use biological diversity, safe transfer of living modified organisms, and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits resulting from the use of genetic resources. This document discusses the Zambian National Biosafety Authority (NBA), its origins, role, and how it applies the Cartagena as a member state to the treaty. The discussion will also give insights into the bioethical concerns that led to the implementation of the Biosafety Act in 2007. This is an academic document and it does not claim to be exhaust the subject. Should need to discuss the subject, simply send me an email. Enjoy the read!
This document provides an overview of the bio-safety activities of India's Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. It discusses the ministry's mandate to regulate genetically modified organisms and implement international biosafety protocols. It then explains key concepts around biosafety and GMOs, how GMOs are used, and the country's regulatory framework including the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee. The document also discusses public concerns with GMOs, the status of GM crops in India and globally including Bt cotton, and international agreements like the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety.
The document discusses concerns developing countries have with increasingly stringent environmental regulations in international trade. It provides examples of regulations affecting sectors like agriculture, fisheries, leather and textiles, and electronics. Developing countries face challenges meeting complex standards due to lack of technical capacity and infrastructure. The document also discusses potential developmental impacts and actions needed at national and international levels to address these concerns.
The document discusses concerns developing countries have with increasingly stringent environmental regulations in international trade. It notes regulations are becoming more complex and frequent. This can negatively impact market access for developing countries due to lack of awareness, infrastructure, and institutional capacity. The document provides examples of issues in sectors like agriculture, fisheries, leather and textiles, and electronics. It suggests actions for developing countries, international organizations, and aid agencies to help address these concerns.
The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety aims to ensure the safe handling, transport, and use of living modified organisms (LMOs) resulting from modern biotechnology. It works by establishing rules for risk assessment, risk management, and information sharing regarding transboundary movements of LMOs. The protocol is important because it allows countries to make informed decisions regarding LMOs while protecting biodiversity and human health.
The International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) system was developed in 2008 to certify sustainable biomass and bioenergy. ISCC certification covers sustainability aspects across the entire biofuel supply chain, including reducing GHG emissions, sustainable land use, protecting natural areas, and social sustainability. The certification has criteria in three categories: sustainability requirements for biomass production, GHG emissions savings calculations, and traceability/mass balance requirements. ISCC certification aims to promote environmentally and socially responsible production of all types of biofuels.
The International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) system was developed in 2008 to certify sustainable biomass and bioenergy. ISCC certification covers sustainability aspects across the entire biofuel supply chain, including reducing GHG emissions, sustainable land use, protecting natural areas, and social sustainability. The certification has criteria in three categories: sustainability requirements for biomass production, GHG emissions savings calculations, and requirements for traceability and mass balance calculations. ISCC certification aims to promote environmentally and socially responsible production of all types of biofuels.
The Global Taxonomy Initiative (GTI) was developed by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) to address the lack of taxonomic information and expertise, known as the "taxonomic impediment", which undermines conservation efforts. The GTI aims to facilitate access to taxonomic knowledge to inform decision-making. It has a program of work comprising 19 activities within 5 operational objectives focused on assessing needs, building capacity, facilitating information access, generating taxonomic information to support CBD thematic programs, and cross-cutting issues. Parties to the CBD and other organizations collaborate under the GTI to advance global taxonomic research and training.
The document discusses the challenges faced by agricultural extension services in implementing a new Fairtrade production and marketing model for banana farming in the Windward Islands after they lost preferential access to European markets. It finds that while Fairtrade provided an alternative market, extension agents struggled to transition farmers to the new standards. Production and exports continued declining due to high costs of compliance and environmental restrictions that reduced productivity on small farms. Overall, Fairtrade helped the industry survive but challenges regarding the economic viability and sustainability of this model remain.
The key government agencies responsible for food safety in Ghana include:
- The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), which defines food safety policy and regulates food premises, surveillance, and research.
- The Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), which develops standards and provides certification and inspection services.
- The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which regulates the environment.
- Within the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, the Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Directorate oversees crop protection and pesticide management.
- Multiple ministries and laws cover various aspects of food safety and quality. However, legislation needs updating to align with modern standards and separate responsibilities. The National Food Safety Policy aims to improve governance
Bio-pesticides development, use and regulation in KenyaILRI
Presented by Virginia Kimani at the Regional Experts Workshop on Development, Regulation and Use of Bio-pesticides in East Africa, Nairobi, Kenya, 22–23 May 2014
The document outlines India's plant quarantine structure and the need for a new Plant Quarantine Order. It discusses the organizational chart of India's plant quarantine services and the goals of preventing the introduction and spread of pests while facilitating safe agricultural trade. It then describes the key features of the new order, including regulating imports of soil, genetically modified materials, insects and more through a risk analysis process. It also discusses strengthening quarantine facilities and establishing plans and guidelines to support the new order.
The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety is an international agreement that establishes rules for international trade in living modified organisms (LMOs) to ensure the safe handling, transport, and use of LMOs. It allows countries to decide whether to accept imports of LMOs and establishes procedures for obtaining prior informed consent. Key aspects include an advance informed agreement procedure for imports, requiring risk assessments and managing risks of LMOs, accounting for socioeconomic impacts, and promoting public awareness and participation in decision making. The protocol also addresses illegal trade, information sharing, capacity building, and establishing a biosafety clearinghouse.
Genetic Modified Organism Regulation in IndiaMeehirMerai
The document discusses India's standards for the release and use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It provides definitions of GMOs and explains how they are created by inserting foreign genes into organisms' DNA. It then discusses the main benefits of genetically modifying agricultural plants and animals. The document goes on to summarize India's policies and regulatory framework for ensuring biosafety of GMOs, including guidelines, committees, and containment facilities required for research. It also notes the countries that use GMO technology the most and some concerns about their use.
Presented by Doris Wangari, Program for Biosafety Systems (PBS), Kenya, at the Workshop on Animal Genetic Research for Africa (Biosciences for Farming in Africa), Nairobi, 10-11 September 2015
Creating and Implementing Biosafety Regulations: The Philippine Experience by Carlo G. Custodio Jr., Philippines Country Coordinator, Program for Biosafety Systems. Presented at the ReSAKSS-Asia - MIID conference "Evolving Agrifood Systems in Asia: Achieving food and nutrition security by 2030" on Oct 30-31, 2019 in Yangon, Myanmar.
Methanex is the world's largest producer and supplier of methanol. We create value through our leadership in the global production, marketing and delivery of methanol to customers. View our latest Investor Presentation for more details.
UnityNet World Environment Day Abraham Project 2024 Press ReleaseLHelferty
June 12, 2024 UnityNet International (#UNI) World Environment Day Abraham Project 2024 Press Release from Markham / Mississauga, Ontario in the, Greater Tkaronto Bioregion, Canada in the North American Great Lakes Watersheds of North America (Turtle Island).
THE CARTAGENA PROTOCOL - THE CASE FOR ZAMBIAMuunda Mudenda
The Cartagena Protocol is an international treaty that brings together member states, called parties, for the cause of sustainable use biological diversity, safe transfer of living modified organisms, and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits resulting from the use of genetic resources. This document discusses the Zambian National Biosafety Authority (NBA), its origins, role, and how it applies the Cartagena as a member state to the treaty. The discussion will also give insights into the bioethical concerns that led to the implementation of the Biosafety Act in 2007. This is an academic document and it does not claim to be exhaust the subject. Should need to discuss the subject, simply send me an email. Enjoy the read!
This document provides an overview of the bio-safety activities of India's Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. It discusses the ministry's mandate to regulate genetically modified organisms and implement international biosafety protocols. It then explains key concepts around biosafety and GMOs, how GMOs are used, and the country's regulatory framework including the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee. The document also discusses public concerns with GMOs, the status of GM crops in India and globally including Bt cotton, and international agreements like the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety.
The document discusses concerns developing countries have with increasingly stringent environmental regulations in international trade. It provides examples of regulations affecting sectors like agriculture, fisheries, leather and textiles, and electronics. Developing countries face challenges meeting complex standards due to lack of technical capacity and infrastructure. The document also discusses potential developmental impacts and actions needed at national and international levels to address these concerns.
The document discusses concerns developing countries have with increasingly stringent environmental regulations in international trade. It notes regulations are becoming more complex and frequent. This can negatively impact market access for developing countries due to lack of awareness, infrastructure, and institutional capacity. The document provides examples of issues in sectors like agriculture, fisheries, leather and textiles, and electronics. It suggests actions for developing countries, international organizations, and aid agencies to help address these concerns.
The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety aims to ensure the safe handling, transport, and use of living modified organisms (LMOs) resulting from modern biotechnology. It works by establishing rules for risk assessment, risk management, and information sharing regarding transboundary movements of LMOs. The protocol is important because it allows countries to make informed decisions regarding LMOs while protecting biodiversity and human health.
The International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) system was developed in 2008 to certify sustainable biomass and bioenergy. ISCC certification covers sustainability aspects across the entire biofuel supply chain, including reducing GHG emissions, sustainable land use, protecting natural areas, and social sustainability. The certification has criteria in three categories: sustainability requirements for biomass production, GHG emissions savings calculations, and traceability/mass balance requirements. ISCC certification aims to promote environmentally and socially responsible production of all types of biofuels.
The International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) system was developed in 2008 to certify sustainable biomass and bioenergy. ISCC certification covers sustainability aspects across the entire biofuel supply chain, including reducing GHG emissions, sustainable land use, protecting natural areas, and social sustainability. The certification has criteria in three categories: sustainability requirements for biomass production, GHG emissions savings calculations, and requirements for traceability and mass balance calculations. ISCC certification aims to promote environmentally and socially responsible production of all types of biofuels.
The Global Taxonomy Initiative (GTI) was developed by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) to address the lack of taxonomic information and expertise, known as the "taxonomic impediment", which undermines conservation efforts. The GTI aims to facilitate access to taxonomic knowledge to inform decision-making. It has a program of work comprising 19 activities within 5 operational objectives focused on assessing needs, building capacity, facilitating information access, generating taxonomic information to support CBD thematic programs, and cross-cutting issues. Parties to the CBD and other organizations collaborate under the GTI to advance global taxonomic research and training.
The document discusses the challenges faced by agricultural extension services in implementing a new Fairtrade production and marketing model for banana farming in the Windward Islands after they lost preferential access to European markets. It finds that while Fairtrade provided an alternative market, extension agents struggled to transition farmers to the new standards. Production and exports continued declining due to high costs of compliance and environmental restrictions that reduced productivity on small farms. Overall, Fairtrade helped the industry survive but challenges regarding the economic viability and sustainability of this model remain.
The key government agencies responsible for food safety in Ghana include:
- The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), which defines food safety policy and regulates food premises, surveillance, and research.
- The Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), which develops standards and provides certification and inspection services.
- The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which regulates the environment.
- Within the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, the Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Directorate oversees crop protection and pesticide management.
- Multiple ministries and laws cover various aspects of food safety and quality. However, legislation needs updating to align with modern standards and separate responsibilities. The National Food Safety Policy aims to improve governance
Bio-pesticides development, use and regulation in KenyaILRI
Presented by Virginia Kimani at the Regional Experts Workshop on Development, Regulation and Use of Bio-pesticides in East Africa, Nairobi, Kenya, 22–23 May 2014
The document outlines India's plant quarantine structure and the need for a new Plant Quarantine Order. It discusses the organizational chart of India's plant quarantine services and the goals of preventing the introduction and spread of pests while facilitating safe agricultural trade. It then describes the key features of the new order, including regulating imports of soil, genetically modified materials, insects and more through a risk analysis process. It also discusses strengthening quarantine facilities and establishing plans and guidelines to support the new order.
The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety is an international agreement that establishes rules for international trade in living modified organisms (LMOs) to ensure the safe handling, transport, and use of LMOs. It allows countries to decide whether to accept imports of LMOs and establishes procedures for obtaining prior informed consent. Key aspects include an advance informed agreement procedure for imports, requiring risk assessments and managing risks of LMOs, accounting for socioeconomic impacts, and promoting public awareness and participation in decision making. The protocol also addresses illegal trade, information sharing, capacity building, and establishing a biosafety clearinghouse.
Genetic Modified Organism Regulation in IndiaMeehirMerai
The document discusses India's standards for the release and use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It provides definitions of GMOs and explains how they are created by inserting foreign genes into organisms' DNA. It then discusses the main benefits of genetically modifying agricultural plants and animals. The document goes on to summarize India's policies and regulatory framework for ensuring biosafety of GMOs, including guidelines, committees, and containment facilities required for research. It also notes the countries that use GMO technology the most and some concerns about their use.
Presented by Doris Wangari, Program for Biosafety Systems (PBS), Kenya, at the Workshop on Animal Genetic Research for Africa (Biosciences for Farming in Africa), Nairobi, 10-11 September 2015
Creating and Implementing Biosafety Regulations: The Philippine Experience by Carlo G. Custodio Jr., Philippines Country Coordinator, Program for Biosafety Systems. Presented at the ReSAKSS-Asia - MIID conference "Evolving Agrifood Systems in Asia: Achieving food and nutrition security by 2030" on Oct 30-31, 2019 in Yangon, Myanmar.
Methanex is the world's largest producer and supplier of methanol. We create value through our leadership in the global production, marketing and delivery of methanol to customers. View our latest Investor Presentation for more details.
UnityNet World Environment Day Abraham Project 2024 Press ReleaseLHelferty
June 12, 2024 UnityNet International (#UNI) World Environment Day Abraham Project 2024 Press Release from Markham / Mississauga, Ontario in the, Greater Tkaronto Bioregion, Canada in the North American Great Lakes Watersheds of North America (Turtle Island).
Cleades Robinson, a respected leader in Philadelphia's police force, is known for his diplomatic and tactful approach, fostering a strong community rapport.
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The E-Way Bill revolutionizes logistics by digitizing the documentation of goods transport, ensuring transparency, tax compliance, and streamlined processes. This mandatory, electronic system reduces delays, enhances accountability, and combats tax evasion, benefiting businesses and authorities alike. Embrace the E-Way Bill for efficient, reliable transportation operations.
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The world of blockchain and decentralized technologies is about to witness a groundbreaking event. ZKsync, the pioneering Ethereum Layer 2 network, has announced the highly anticipated airdrop of its native token, ZK. This move marks a significant milestone in the protocol's journey, empowering the community to take the reins and shape the future of this revolutionary ecosystem.
ZKsync airdrop of 3.6 billion ZK tokens is scheduled by ZKsync for next week.pdf
100504genetically_0 (2).ppt
1. BRIEFING ON GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS
ACTING DIRECTOR GENERAL: MR PETER THABETE
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES AND FORESTRY
2. OUTLINE OF BRIEFING
1. BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON BIOTECHNOLOGY/
GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS (GMOs)
2. LEGISLATION: GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS ACT,
1997 (ACT NO. 15 OF 1997) AND AMENDMENTS
3. STATUS OF GM CROP ADOPTION IN SOUTH AFRICA
4. STATUS REGARDING TRANSBOUNDARY MOVEMENT OF
GMOS
2
3. Defining Biotechnology
• A “toolbox” of various techniques that uses living organisms or derivatives
thereof to modify or make useful products. In the past this has included
selective breeding for improvement of plants and animals and the
fermentation of commodities such as bread, beer, wine, cheese etc
Defining Modern Biotechnology
• Discovery of genetic code or “DNA” biotechnology applications were able
to facilitate the transfer of genetic material within and beyond the species
boundaries thus allowing living organisms to be modified or altered at a
genetic level, resulting in what is known as a genetically modified organism
(GMO).
• Collectively this process is termed genetic engineering/ modification and
represents but one of the many tools in the biotechnology “toolbox”.
3
1... BIOTECHNOLOGY/ GMOs
4. National Biotechnology Strategy (2001)
Promotes the establishment of a thriving biotechnology sector
through various interventions because of potential to contribute to
economic development.
Biotechnology Opportunities
• increase agricultural production in a sustainable manner
• address production challenges relating to limited arable land and the
declining natural resource base.
• Nutritionally enhanced food
CAUTION!
GM technology not solution to every problem but instead should be
considered in combination with other sustainable technologies and
existing agricultural practices
4
1…BIOTECHNOLOGY POLICY CONTEXT
6. 2…GMOS: SA REGULATORY LANDSCAPE
6
Department of
Agriculture,
Forestry &
Fisheries
Department of
Environmental
Affairs
Department
of Health
Department of
Science &
Technology
Department
of Trade and
Industry
National
Environmental
Management
Act, 1998
GMO Act, 1997
(Amendment in
2006)
National
Environmental
Biodiversity
Act, 2004
Convention on
Biological Diversity/
Cartagena Protocol
*Focal Point
Foodstuffs,
Cosmetics, and
Disinfectants
Act, 1972
CODEX
Alimentarius
Contact Point
National
Biotechnology
Strategy
2001
Consumer
Protection
Act, 2008
Cartagena
Protocol for
Biosafety-2003
*Competent
Authority
7. Implemented in 1999 - Ensure activities relating to GMOs are
carried out RESPONSIBLY
Limit adverse impact on environment, human/animal health
How is this achieved?
Administrative & consultative system
Manage import, export, production, release & distribution
Lay down criteria for risk assessment & risk management
Ensure effective management of waste
Prevent accidents
7
2...GMO ACT, 1997
8. Act makes provision for the Minister to appoint members to
regulatory bodies which exercise oversight over the safety
assessment and approval of GMO applications.
8
2...GMO ACT: REGULATORY INSTRUMENT
•Environmental Safety
•Food & feed safety
•Non safety issues e.g.
trade &
socio-economics
Registrar
(Administration)
Executive Council
Decision makers represented by DAFF, DEA,
DoH, the dti, DoL, DST & AC Chair
Advisory Committee
Technical experts responsible for safety
assessment
9. Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety is an international agreement
established under the Convention on Biological Diversity
Objective: contribute to ensuring an adequate level of protection for
the safe transfer, handling and use of GMOs to limit adverse effects
on conservation and biodiversity, also taking into account risks to
human health.
SA acceded to the Protocol in 2003
Obligations as a Contracting Party to provide legal, administrative
and other measures to implement provisions of Protocol
DAFF is the recognized Competent Authority and DEA is the Focal
Point
9
2...International Obligations: Cartagena
Protocol on Biosafety
10. Process of amending the Act was initiated in 2003 after SA’s
accession to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety
Amendments focused on alignment with provisions of Protocol and
related environmental legislation
GMO Amendment Bill subjected to parliamentary processes and
was approved by President in April 2007.
In 2008 regulations were drafted and gazetted for public input.
Following review and consultation of comments, regulations were
finalized and submitted for approval in 2009.
In February 2010 Amendment Act was proclaimed and the
regulations gazetted for implementation.
10
2... GMO Amendment Act (Act 23 of 2006)
11. Status of implementing key amendments to the Act:
Procedures already in place to address transboundary movement
of GMOs in compliance with Protocol
Protocol provisions for risk assessment and risk management
already implemented
Consultation with related government departments on
environmental and socioeconomic impact assessments is ongoing
Development of official biosafety clearing house is near completion
Administrative processes initiated to facilitate inclusion of
representation on EC from Arts and Culture, Water Affairs and
Forestry
11
2... GMO Amendment Act (Act 23 of 2006)
12. 3. STATUS OF GM CROP ADOPTION
IN SOUTH AFRICA
12
13. 3. STATUS OF GM CROP ADOPTION IN SA
SA AREA PLANTED WITH GM CROPS
Total Maize = 78% of total maize ha
White maize: hectares, 64% crop
Yellow maize: hectares, % crop
Soybean: 85% crop
Cotton: 92-95% crop
Total Area : 2,1 million hectares
(ISAAA, 2009)
13
Crop Trait Year approved
Cotton
InsectR HerbT 2005, 2007
HerbT 2000, 2007
InsectR 1997, 2003
Maize
InsectR HerbT 2007
HerbT 2002
InsectR 1997, 2003
Soybean HerbT 2001
GM Crops – Commercially Approved
15. 15
3....IMPACT OF GM CROPS
Economic benefits
Less crop damage due to effective
insect control
Improved yields
Reduced chemical use
Savings on input costs
Increased farm income
Potential benefits for both small scale
and commercial producers
Cumulative benefits from 1999-2009
estimated at $500 mill for SA (ISAAA, 2009)
Source: Gouse et al (2003, 2004, 2005)
BT Maize:
BT Cotton:
17. 4. STATUS REGARDING TRANSBOUNDARY
MOVEMENT OF GMOS
Imports/ Exports procedures applicable to:
GM seed for intentional introduction into the environment i.e. For planting
GM Commodity for direct use as food, feed or processing (not planting)
Procedures strictly comply with Protocol requirements (Articles 7,8,11 & 18)
Generally follows a process involving-
Notification of GM events in the consignment
Decision making based on available risk assessment data of GM events
Communication of decision and issuance of relevant authorisation
documents if appropriate.
Challenges where contracting Parties to the Protocol are at different levels of
implementation and do not yet have all the required procedures in place.
17
18. 4. ...STATUS OF GM COMMODITY IMPORTS
In 2005, Executive Council (EC) suspended all existing and new
applications for commodity imports of GM maize.
Decision based on the dti’s concerns regarding the possible negative
impact of GM commodity trading on local producers.
To facilitate decision making a study was commissioned by the EC to
investigate the issues raised by the dti.
Outcomes of the study broadly confirmed that restricting access to new
GM maize events would disadvantage both domestic producers and
consumers of GM maize.
18
19. 4. ..STATUS OF GM COMMODITY IMPORTS (cont.)
Following an analysis of the study report the dti recommended to the EC that:
Imports of GM maize commodity be allowed only if DAFF is able to ensure
adequate control measures for policing and monitoring of commodity imports.
Import of GM sugarcane not be allowed unless verification is possible through
scientific testing.
Consultation with SACU member states on the development of regulatory
measures for GM commodities due to potential risks of transboundary
movement of GM products to SACU countries.
In response to the dti’s recommendations the EC has commissioned several
interventions to address strengthening of regulatory control measures.
Since EC decisions are consensus based, the Council is currently awaiting
the final position by the dti on whether they are satisfied that their concerns
have been addressed.
19
20. 4. ..GM COMMODITY EXPORTS
Same consideration given to SA for commodity imports needs to be
extended to importing Parties when SA is the exporting country.
GM maize exports to Kenya:
Both Kenya and SA are Parties to the Protocol
GM status of maize consignment was declared to Kenya
Import authorisation was issued by Kenya accepting the consignment
Export permit issued by SA for mixed consignment of GM maize to
Kenya for use as a commodity (i.e. not for planting)
Follow ups with Kenyan government regarding status of maize
consignment resulted in response from KEPHIS that shipment of maize
was transferred to a warehouse.
No official communication received since media reports.
20
21. CONCLUDING REMARKS
To date SA has made significant progress with the alignment and
implementation of its Biosafety Regulatory Framework
Because the regulatory framework in SA cannot function within a
vacuum we have to take cognizance of Agreements and Protocols
that apply at an International level in the interest of ensuring our
trade credibility for accessing international markets.
We do acknowledge the challenges relating to GMOs in so far as
different countries expressing different viewpoints on the subject
and being at different levels of regulatory implementation.
Continue to engage our regulatory counterparts on technical issues
relating to GMOs in an attempt to address some of the identified
challenges.
21