Biotech Updates

Urgent Call to G20 Global Leaders to Continue Investments in Agricultural Development

June 10, 2011

In a press release by CropLife International, President and CEO Howard Minigh calls on to the global leaders attending the G20 meeting in Cannes, France for increased investments in agricultural research and development. Mr. Minigh said that "In celebration of World Environment day we urge nations to increase their investment in agriculture. By investing in technology, knowledge building, and predictable regulatory frameworks, countries can instill confidence in continued private investment and increase the tools available to farmers."

The momentum by the private sector to introduce agricultural innovations that will improve farming efficiency and enable sustainable farming practices should be continued, but countries must make the commitment to agriculture and to food security and economic development worldwide, he added. This action becomes crucial as the population estimate in 2050 will be 9 billion and a 70% increase in food production is needed in the next 40 years.

The press release can be seen at http://www.croplife.org/