Global Risks of Rejecting Agricultural Biotechnology

A PATH FORWARD:

In a world where population increases mean the demand for food by 2050 will nearly double, biotechnology can lead to increased food security, as well as improving health in developing countries by enhancing food nutrition. In agriculture, biotechnology has enabled the genetic advancement of crops, improved soil productivity, and enhanced weed and pest control. Unfortunately, such potential has largely remained untapped by African countries, where persistent food shortages have wide implications.

• Biotechnology has the potential to improve access to more nutritious food, leading both to lower health care costs and higher economic performance due to improved worker health.
• A growing backlash against GM foods in some African nations has created a harsh political atmosphere under which tight regulations are being developed.
• To take full advantage of the many applications of biotechnology in agriculture, African policymakers should consider whether overregulation of GM crops is warranted.
• Agriculture needs to be viewed as a knowledge-based entrepreneurial activity. Smart investments in agriculture will have multiplier effects in many sectors of the economy and will help spread prosperity....

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