The Status and Impact of Biosafety Regulation in Developing Economies Since Ratification of the Cartagena Protocol

Common to all of the countries where genetically engineered (GE) crops are cultivated is a system to regulate these products and particularly to ensure their evaluation for human health and environmental safety (commonly referred to as biosafety) prior to any commercial release. This paper explores how the Cartagena Protocol to the Convention on Biological Diversity, as well as other important drivers, have affected the regulation of GE crops in developing countries. It examines the impact of biosafety regulation on research and development of GE crops and on product approvals. Finally, it identifies opportuni-ties to advance biosafety regulation in those developing countries that wish to access the potential benefits of agricultural biotechnology.

The report can be found here.

Suggested Citation: McLean, M., Foley, M‐E and Pehu, E. (2012). The Status and Impact of Biosafety Regulation in Developing Economies since Ratification of the Cartagena Protocol. Joint Departmental Discussion Paper 3, Agriculture and Rural Development & Environment Departments, World Bank, Washington DC.