Existing biotech regulations for GMOs have established a very complicated and burdensome regulatory environment in addition to trade barriers without scientific basis which could impact the use of [new breeding techniques, or] NBTs and further developments. It also faces the challenge of acceptance by retailers and consumers, and communication to and from these stakeholders may define the future of these opportunities.

The countries which are most advanced in developing a viable regulatory framework for NBT are the major food and feed producer and exporter countries in Latin America. Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, Guatemala, and Honduras already have regulations in place that encourage innovation.

Plant breeding is key to boosting agricultural productivity, adapting agriculture to climate change and improving nutritional food and feed, while providing benefits to consumers, farmers and society at large. Moreover, these technologies are widely accessible and could help democratize the benefits of science. But to leverage their potential and promote further investment and development, it is essential to approach the regulatory, legal and commercial framework from a scientific rather than a political perspective.

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