The potential overturning of the ban on genetic modification in New Zealand would add value to the products and processes in many New Zealand industries, including forestry, agriculture, marine, environmental and human and animal healthcare, says BiotechNZ’s Dr Zahra Champion.
She says the announcement by National’s Science, Innovation, and Technology spokesperson, Judith Collins, that a National government would end New Zealand’s ban on gene editing and genetic modification to unlock the benefits for climate change, agricultural production and exports and health science is “very exciting.
National proposes to:
- End the effective ban on Gene Editing (GE) and Genetic Modification (GM) in New Zealand;
- Create a dedicated regulator to ensure safe and ethical use of biotechnology; and
- Streamline approvals for trials and use of non-GE/GM technology in line with other OECD countries.
“Biotech in the hands of our innovators will enable us to address these challenges, from reducing greenhouse gas emissions to developing sustainable agricultural practices and creating new life-saving medicines.
“With our world-class expertise and exceptional strengths in key industries (such as forestry, agriculture, horticulture, renewables, and healthcare), we have an opportunity to leverage biotech innovations to drive growth and create a more prosperous future,” says Dr Champion.
