August 6, 2007

 

Australia grains industry ready to use GM canola in 2008
 

 

Australia's cropping industry has the systems in place to use genetically modified canola in 2008, and differentiate it from non-GM product, according to a report to be issued at a major farming conference Tuesday (Aug 7).

 

The industry can adopt GM canola and provide choice through the supply and logistics chains, thereby allowing Australian growers to compete on the world market, according to the report, entitled 'Delivering Market Choice with GM Canola' and prepared by the grower- and government-funded Grains Research & Development Corp.

 

Currently, Canadians can grow, use and reap the rewards of GM canola on world markets, but Australian growers are prevented from using the product due to state-based moratoria.

 

The industry recognises that choice must be a priority across the supply chain and that all customers - from farmers to consumers - must be free to choose to use GM or non-GM canola, Angus McLaren, a spokesman for the group overseeing the study, is expected to tell the Agriculture Australia 2007 conference in Melbourne on Tuesday.

 

The report will be outlined during a session on biotechnology at the conference, which will be one of a number of key areas of Australian agriculture in focus. Others include the impact of climate change on farming and opportunities for bio-fuels production in Australia.

 

Several speakers will address changes to export wheat marketing, including Peter White, acting chief executive of regulator Wheat Export Authority. Alick Osborne, commercial manager at Louis Dreyfus Australia, is scheduled to address the outlook for the barley industry following deregulation of exports from South Australia state.

 

The industry study looked at protocols and processes in the canola supply chain, and evaluated technical principles and practices, and market requirements for GM canola.

 

The key steps for commercialisation of approved GM canola have been met, according to the report.

 

It added that the industry is ready to move ahead with commercialisation of the two approved GM canola varieties.

 

The report urges governments to recognise the grains industry's ability and commitment, and to support commercialisation of approved GM canola in Australia.