Global Crop Biotech Network Meet in Beijing

Representatives from the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications' (ISAAA) Global Knowledge Center on Crop Biotechnology and its network of Biotechnology Information Centers (BICs) converged in Beijing, China from March 23-25, 2010 to discuss knowledge sharing initiatives and science communication strategies to foster greater understanding of the technology. ISAAA's Global Coordinator Randy Hautea noted that the network was the only one of its kind in the world and is a powerful information network that addresses the developing world's thirst for science-based information.

Dr. Zhu Zhen of the Chinese Academy of Science briefed the group on genetic modification technology in China noting that the country is fast gaining recognition for its efforts to use biotech tools to improve agricultural productivity. Just recently, China approved biosafety certificates for Bt rice and phytase maize. Dr. Jikun Huang of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences discussed farmer acceptance of GM crops noting that there has been a general postive acceptance of Bt cotton due to benefits in terms of yield and health considerations.

For further information about the meeting contact Hongxiang Zhang of the China Biotechnology Information Center at zhangx@mail.las.ac.cn