Biotech Updates

Status of Agri-Biotech In South Africa

July 20, 2007

According to the US Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), farmers in South Africa continue to plant genetically modified (GM) crops. About 92% of cotton, 44% of corn, and 59% of soybeans planted in South Africa are GM. South African farmers prefer GM crops because these varieties require fewer inputs and have higher yields, and are easier to manage than traditional varieties.

The South African government generally supports biotechnology, and the country has a regulatory structure that is very progressive. South Africa is expected to play a vital role like countries in Africa develop biotechnology policies.

Read the full report at http://www.fas.usda.gov/gainfiles/200707/146291657.pdf.