In a unique move, and demonstrating extreme concern about the future of German Agrobiotechnology, Germany's bioregions have rallied together to publicy criticise proposed German legislation for gene technology.

The draft law, passed with a majority by the German Bundestag, is seen as an 'innovation killer', says the statement, signed by 24 representatives of the Bioregions. The draft law blocks the use of modern bio- and gene- technologies in agriculture and, according to the EU, even violates valid EU legislation, continues the statement. On the 22nd of September the next discussion, in an attempt to find a compromise, will take place.

The representatives of the bioregion recommend that the German Genetic Engineering Law (GenTG) is renacted. The full version of the statement (see below) contains a constructive discussion to support this case.

The current German legislation has to be amended this year, following the earlier introduction of new EU rules. However, it would seem that the EU rules are not as stringent as the German Government would wish for and the intended draft law is widely seen as potentially devastating to the continued growth of German Biotech.

The German Biotech sector, and particularly the field of plant biotechnology, is world renowned and fast growing. The high number of research institutions and SME's is clear evidence of a vibrancy and innovation. The fear is that this new law will hamper the use of genetically engineering in agriculture to such an extent that it will result in an immediate, and devastating downturn in the sector.


Read the full statement here.