New regulations mark the advancement of genetic innovation in agriculture for the country.
Thailand’s minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, has signed progressive legislation for gene-edited organisms, according to a release. This new regulation is titled “Certification of Organisms Developed from Genome Editing Technology for Agricultural Use, B.E. 2567 (2024),” and positions Thailand as a leader in agricultural innovation alongside nations like the United States, Japan, and Australia.
The announcement, made by Mr. Rapibhat Chandarasrivongs, director-general of the Department of Agriculture, highlights how new regulations support Prime Minister Settha Thavisin’s “Ignite Agriculture Hub” initiative. Mr. Chandarasrivongs stated that this technology could potentially triple Thai farmers’ incomes within four years. He also noted that the legislation represents a significant advancement in new breeding techniques, particularly genome editing technology, which has the potential to enhance agricultural organisms.
The new law facilitates the safe development and commercial use of genome-edited plants, animals, and microorganisms in agriculture and will come into effect 30 days after its publication.