Brazil Allows GMO Soybean Production

BRASILIA - Jul 26/01 - STAT -- Brazil will allow commercial production of genetically engineered (GMO) soybean varieties already commonly grown in Argentina and the United States.

Production was approved several years ago, but blocked by the courts in the face of claims by environmental and consumer groups there was no proof the bean was safe for human consumption.

The move by Brazil will be welcomed by its competitors because it removes an advantage enjoyed in pursuing sales to the European Union, which continues to show a preference for non-GMO products.

Brazilian soybean production for the 2001-02 cycle is expected to total 37.8 million metric tons (MT), up from 34.13 million during 200-01 and 31.34 million MT the previous season.

Exports for the coming season area expected to jump from an estimated 11.78 million MT to 14.5 million; while domestic crush activity improves slightly from 21.578 million MT during 2000-01 to a projected 22.2 million MT.

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