Call Prefix : PR-MS

Call Suffix : 2002

Call Cutter : BIC401

Location : SEARCA Library

Format : Printed

Series : Agricultural Biotechnolgy in Europe (ABE)

Publication Date : October 2002

Summary : Summary: GM crops have been taken up by farmers at such a rapid rate because of the very real economic benefits they deliver. Such benefits are already being gained by some maize farmers in Spain. Although there is not, as yet, any direct consumer benefit, the greater production efficiency of current GM crops results in lower farm-gate prices. In a free market, this would lead to reduced commodity prices; in Europe the result would be to reduce the subsidy needed. Farmers in developing countries - including China, South Africa and India - are also starting to see real benefits as they begin to grow GM crops. Similar benefits as they begin to grow GM crops. Similar benefits to those received in Spain are available both to other European farmers and society as a whole as appropriate GM crops are fully commercialised in the EU. Any possible market demand for larger quantities of segregated soya would lead to significant premiums being paid, and it is unlikely that these can easily be recouped from the consumer.