South African farmers plant genetically modified (GM) corn, cotton and soybeans. South Africa's (SA) acreage of GM crops rose to approximately 92 percent of South Africa's cotton, 29 percent of corn, and 59 percent of soybeans.
Clearly GM products have a wide appeal with South African Farmers. They appreciate that GM crops use fewer inputs and have higher yields, and are easier to manage than traditional varieties.
The South African Government generally supports biotechnology: transgenic varieties of cotton, corn and soy are approved for commercial planting and account for approximately 92 percent of South Africa's cotton, 29 percent of corn, and 59 percent of soybeans. U.S. agricultural interests in South Africa are wide-ranging and diverse.
Wheat is the main U.S. export, followed by many other bulk, intermediate and consumer ready products. Those affected by biotechnology issues are corn, soybeans and seeds (corn, cotton and soybeans). Food aid passage through South Africa to other destinations can also be affected by South Africa's GMO policies.
South African biotechnology regulatory matters are discussed and decided by an Executive Council with representatives from eight departments. An Advisory Committee consisting of experts from around the nation carry out risk analysis on biotech products and give their recommendations to the Council for the final approval of any biotech product.
The advisory committee and the Council donot meet frequently and so decisions are often delayed. Still, the regulatory structure in general is very progressive and several genetic transformation events have received approval for commercial planting.
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