BASF retreats from Europe as GM crops rejected
Greenpeace, January 16 2012
http://www.greenpeace.org/eu-unit/en/News/2012/BASF-retreats-from-Europe-as-GM-crops-rejected/

BASF today announced it is abandoning its plans to develop and commercialise genetically modified (GM) crops in Europe [1].

Greenpeace EU agriculture policy director Marco Contiero said: "BASF admits that Europeans don't want GM crops, and for good reason. It's not just the worrying health concerns, GM crops go hand in glove with factory farming, pesticide use, pest resistance and disappointing long-term yields.

"Europeans are not alone in rejecting GM food. BASF's retreat to the Americas follows a string of defeats for the industry over the last two years in China, India, the Philippines, Thailand and elsewhere. Over 90% of GM food crops are grown in just four countries in the Americas."

In 2011, India rejected the authorisation of a GM aubergine, the only GM food for which an authorisation was sought, while in September 2011 China suspended the commercialisation of GM rice. The Philippines and Thailand have also rejected GM rice.

BASF is shelving its antibiotic resistant potato Amflora, one of only two GM crops authorised for cultivation in Europe. The crop was a commercial flop.


Contacts
Marco Contiero +32 477 777034 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Jack Hunter +32 476 988584 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Notes
[1] See BASF's press release: www.basf.com/group/pressrelease/P-12-109