June 20, 2012

Hungary approves GMO crop limit rule

The parliament of Hungary unanimously agreed last week over a new directive that will limit the genetically modified (GM) crops permitted in Hungary, which are currently approved by the EU.

The ministry of rural development welcomed the law, which maximises chances of the country remaining GMO-free.

The new regulations will place a strict limit on genetically modified crops in Hungary which are currently authorised by the EU, as well as potential future GMOs, the ministry said.

The law will enable farmers, local communities, local councils and regions to practice their autonomous rights more effectively while backing grassroots initiatives to establish GMO-free regions.

It hands increased powers to controlling authorities over imports of unlicensed products, and firms up penalties if rules relating to licenced activities are transgressed, it added.

The GMO ban will apply to public production but private growers will be allowed to experiment on plots as long as the surrounding environment is properly protected.