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The Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) has issued a cautionary statement regarding the potential implications of importing genetically modified (GM) farm products from the United States. This warning comes as India and the US are engaged in negotiations for an interim trade pact, with an anticipated announcement slated before July 9, 2025. The GTRI's primary concern revolves around the potential adverse effects on India's agricultural exports, particularly to regions with stringent GM regulations and consumer preferences against GM-linked products, such as the European Union (EU). The crux of the issue lies in the proposed inclusion of GM products like soybean meal and distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) for animal feed in the trade agreement. The EU, a significant destination for Indian agricultural exports, maintains strict GM labeling rules and exhibits strong consumer resistance to GM-related products. Even though GM feed is technically permitted within the EU, a substantial portion of European buyers actively seek GM-free supply chains. This preference stems from concerns related to environmental sustainability, human health, and ethical considerations. India's agricultural landscape presents several challenges that exacerbate the risks associated with GM imports. The country's fragmented agri-logistics infrastructure and the absence of robust segregation systems increase the likelihood of cross-contamination between GM and non-GM crops. This contamination could potentially lead to trace GM presence in export consignments, triggering shipment rejections, elevated testing costs, and damage to India's reputation as a provider of GMO-free products. Specific sectors that are particularly vulnerable to these risks include rice, tea, honey, spices, and organic foods, all of which are highly valued for their purity and adherence to non-GM standards. Ajay Srivastava, Founder of GTRI, emphasizes the importance of establishing robust traceability and labeling systems to mitigate the potential negative impact of GM feed imports on India's export competitiveness in the EU. Without such measures, the country's agricultural sector could face significant economic setbacks and reputational damage.
To understand the complexities surrounding GM crops, it's essential to delve into the scientific processes involved in their creation. Genetically modified crops are produced by inserting specific genes into a plant's DNA. These genes can originate from various sources, including bacteria, viruses, other plants, and even, in some cases, animals. The purpose of introducing these genes is to imbue the plant with new traits, such as pest resistance or herbicide tolerance. A classic example is the insertion of the BT gene from the bacterium Bacillus Thuringiensis. This gene enables the plant to produce a protein that is toxic to certain pests, thereby reducing the need for chemical pesticides. Similarly, genes from soil bacteria have been utilized to create crops that are resistant to herbicides, allowing farmers to control weeds more effectively. The use of GM technology raises ethical questions, particularly concerning vegetarianism. While GM crops are biologically plant-based and function as vegetarian food, the inclusion of genes of animal origin may pose a problem for individuals who adhere strictly to religious or ethical definitions of vegetarianism. Although research suggests that GM DNA is broken down during digestion and does not enter the animal's meat, milk, or produce, critics argue that this blurs the line for consumers who wish to avoid GM-associated products altogether. The issue of seed reuse is another critical aspect of GM crop cultivation. Generally, GM seeds are not reusable due to legal and biological factors. They are patented and sold under contracts that prohibit saving and replanting. Moreover, many GM crops are hybrids, and their saved seeds often exhibit poor performance. In India, Bt cotton is the only approved GM crop, and while some farmers have attempted to reuse its seeds, the results have generally been substandard. This reliance on patented seeds can create dependency on seed companies and raise concerns about the economic sustainability of GM agriculture for smallholder farmers.
The risk of contamination poses a significant concern in both GM and non-GM crop production. GM and non-GM crops can intermingle at various stages of the supply chain, including transport, storage, and processing. This intermingling can lead to unintentional GM presence in non-GM products, potentially jeopardizing their market access and value. In India, the current policy regarding GM crops is relatively conservative. Only Bt cotton is approved for cultivation, and no GM food crop is commercially cultivated, although experimental trials are ongoing. While imports of GM soybean oil and canola oil are permitted, imports of GM grains, pulses, oilseeds, fruits, and similar food/feed products are currently prohibited. The GTRI's analysis highlights the potential risks associated with relaxing these restrictions and allowing imports of GM feed materials like soybean meal and DDGS. Such a move could undermine India's efforts to maintain its GMO-free image and compete effectively in the global agricultural market. The economic implications of allowing GM imports extend beyond the agricultural sector. If India were to experience a decline in its agricultural exports due to GM contamination, it could negatively impact the country's overall trade balance and economic growth. Furthermore, it could erode consumer confidence in Indian agricultural products, both domestically and internationally. The GTRI's cautionary statement underscores the need for careful consideration and comprehensive risk assessment before making any decisions regarding GM imports. It also emphasizes the importance of investing in robust traceability and labeling systems to ensure transparency and maintain consumer confidence in the integrity of India's agricultural supply chains. A balanced approach is crucial to harness the potential benefits of GM technology while mitigating the risks and safeguarding India's agricultural interests.
Source: GTRI Cautions Against Imports Of GM Farm Products From US; May Affect India's Agri Exports