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AUS – GM CANOLA – CHOICE
26 November 2007 Source: Australian Oilseeds Federation
Source: http://www.australianoilseeds.com/
GM CANOLA - CHOICE
State governments can let their moratoria expire because the Australian grains industry has the capacity to provide choice, right along the supply chain, according to AOF President, Robert Green.
“Our capacity is based on the comprehensive and world-class protocols and processes that already operate to enable our products to meet all regulatory, customer and consumer specifications and needs. And, this capacity to provide choice is proven and in many cases is already happening.”
“In late 2006, because of drought induced domestic shortage, 57,000 tonnes of GM canola from Canada was imported to satisfy domestic demand for canola oil. This has all been processed and consumed,” he said.
“In addition to this, Australia imports up 25,000 tonnes of soybean oil and has consistently imported more than 350,000 tonnes of soybean meal annually, much of which comes from GM soybean producing countries,” he said.
“At all times, customer and consumer requirements have been met.
“Australia has grown, consumed and exported GM cotton and the products of cottonseed for over a decade.”
Mr Green said the 29 key stakeholders across the grains supply chain – from technology developers through farmer bodies, grain handlers and marketers to customers – have publicly endorsed the Australian grains industry’s capacity to deliver choice.
“The grain industry has everything in place; we now need a progressive decision on the moratoria, while canola growers need a much needed technology boost to enhance competitiveness and take advantage of the opportunities for canola in world markets.
“The Australian grain industry is committed to delivering choice and supports the lifting of the moratoria on approved GM varieties,” Mr Green said.
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