Mexico to set up GMO rules within two weeks

[Judi Lynn]

Mexico to set up GMO rules within two weeks
18 Oct 2006 21:25:04 GMT
Source: Reuters
By Adriana Barrera

MEXICO CITY, Oct 18 (Reuters) - Mexico will establish rules within two weeks allowing biotech companies to plant test crops of genetically modified, or GMO, corn seeds, the government said on Wednesday.

Mexico, widely considered the origin of many of the world's corn varieties, recently prohibited biotech firms Monsanto <MON.N>, Pioneer Hi-Bred International <DD.N> and Dow AgroSciences <DOW.N> from planting GMO test crops.
(snip)

Environment group Greenpeace warned the genetic diversity of corn in Mexico, where it has been cultivated for thousands of years, would be put at risk by the widespread use of GMO seeds.

"It is really stupid to risk contaminating a genetic origin center that has an incredible ecological richness just to please 500 people, big farmers," said Gustavo Ampugnani, who heads the group's anti-GMO campaign in Mexico.
(snip/...)

http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/N18394498.htm

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Mexico's rejection of biotech corn planting draws mixed reaction
The Associated Press

Published: October 18, 2006

MEXICO CITY Mexico has refused requests from several multinational companies seeking to start experimental planting of genetically modified corn, a move praised by environmentalists but criticized by biotech supporters.

Environmentalists said the government's decision is a step toward preventing biotech corn contaminating native varieties in Mexico, the birthplace of corn and still a storehouse of genetically valuable native species.

"In principle, we see this as positive, because it sets a negative precedent for the authorization of planting genetically modified corn," said Gustavo Ampugnani of Greenpeace Mexico. "It's positive, but it's not a definitive decision."
(snip)

Mexico imposed a moratorium on the planting of genetically modified crops in 1998, but in 2005, President Vicente Fox signed a bill that did not grant immediate approval for any crop, but set out a framework for approving such planting in the future.
(snip/...)

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2006/10/18/america/LA_GEN_Mexico_Biotech_Corn.php

[acmejack]

1. And so it goes...

The US can't even export rice anymore because of GM!

[VC2]

2. who wants genetically engineered corn?

maybe genetically engineered people?

[fed-up]

3. can't export long grain rice-CA grows short/med grain n/t