Australia Allows Import and Distribution of GM Chrysanthemum

Australia's Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) has issued license DIR 191 to International Flower Developments Pty. Ltd., authorizing the commercial import and distribution of chrysanthemums genetically modified (GM) for altered flower color.

GM chrysanthemum cut flowers are authorized to be sold throughout Australia, but they will not be grown in the country or used in commercial human food and animal feed. The license decision was informed by a Risk Assessment and Risk Management Plan (RARMP) undertaken by the OGTR with inputs from stakeholders nationwide, including consultations with the public, state and territory governments, local councils, Australian Government agencies, the Minister for the Environment, and the Gene Technology Technical Advisory Committee.

The RARMP concludes that this commercial release poses negligible risk to people and the environment. The finalized RARMP and its summary, the license, and Questions and Answers about this decision are available online from the DIR 191 page on the OGTR website.