In February 2005 the government of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost prefecture, proposed an ordinance to control the cultivation of genetically modified (GM) crops. The ordinance aims to prevent cross-pollination between GM and non-GM crops.

Under the proposed ordinance, farmers will be allowed to grow GM crops only when they take all measures that are necessary to prevent cross-pollination with nearby plants and mixing of GM and non-GM crops. Research institutions, however, will be required to submit their cultivation plans in advance. These plans will be examined by a food safety committee to be established as an advisory body to the governor. If necessary, the committee will be authorized to instruct or order research institutions to change their cultivation plans.

The Hokkaido government drafted the ordinance after hearing opinions from a wide range of citizens, including consumers and farm producers, last fall. The ordinance will be enacted in January 2006 with the aim of securing the safety and reliability of food products in order to gain consumers' confidence and further enhance the image of Hokkaido brands.



Posted: 2005/05/02 12:43:41 PM
Japanese version

TAG Ecosystem , Food/Water , Local government , System/Law