Author : Frederick, Robert J.

Summary : Conclusion: Building functional infrastructure to support the development of biotechnologies in any country may appear complex, but most will agree it is a necessary undertaking. For a country to take full advantage of the promise of this new industry, or the products dereived from it, requires an adequate technology base, appropriate facilities, and regulatory mechanisms. Creating a roadmap - a tool for determining the geography of biosafety implementation, estimating time schedules and identifying landmarks by which progress may be measured - is an important asset for countries just beginning the process. A roadmap will also help orient those countries that have already begun their journey. With informed guidance, the caravan can be better positioned and smooth roads found. Planning can be made more intentional in both its detail and conservation of energy. The challenge will be to lay out the possibilities with clarity and prescience that describes the possible pitfalls and provides options on how to deal with them.