Argentina revisa la normativa sobre OMG para impulsar la innovación en la agricultura

Argentina has updated its regulations on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to accelerate agricultural innovation by simplifying the approval processes for experimental and commercial biotechnological products. The Resolution 255/2026 modernizes technical criteria, reduces costs, shortens evaluation periods, and improves regulatory predictability. This reform fosters investment, strengthens biosafety, protects export markets, and consolidates Argentina's biotechnological leadership.

The Secretariat of Agriculture, Grazing, and Fisheries of Argentina, under the Ministry of Economy, announced the revision and simplification of its regulatory framework for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) intended for agricultural, agro-food, and agro-industrial use. Adopted through Resolution 255/2026, the new regulations apply to both experimental and commercial activities, aiming to establish a clear regulatory environment, improve investment predictability, and keep pace with scientific and technological advancements in the sector.

The new resolution replaces the previous regulatory framework established by Resolution 763/11. It simplifies procedures by introducing more precise technical criteria, shortening evaluation periods, reducing costs, and eliminating unnecessary administrative requirements. While the previous resolution played a crucial role in establishing general guidelines, its replacement has become necessary over time to reflect advancements in the field, as stated in a press release.

Over the years, the use of GMOs in agriculture has expanded into agro-food and agro-industrial sectors, leading to new applications and proposals involving both products and by-products derived from them. This expansion has contributed to increased productivity, higher exports of raw materials, and the production of safe foods in the country.

The objective of the updated regulations is to organize procedures and evaluations according to the type of organism and its intended use, while maintaining supervision of the agroecosystem's innocuity, the suitability of foods for human and animal consumption, and the protection of export markets. Argentina has held a leadership position in regulating and promoting the development of GMOs in agriculture since these activities began in 1991.

The new regulatory framework aims to create a more efficient and predictable environment for investors and researchers, encouraging innovation and the development of new biotechnological solutions. By streamlining the approval process and reducing costs, the reform supports the growth of the agricultural sector, which is a key pillar of Argentina's economy.

The updated regulations also emphasize biosafety, ensuring that GMOs do not pose risks to human health or the environment. The reform includes measures to enhance the evaluation of potential impacts and to ensure that new products meet strict safety standards before being approved for commercial use.

Furthermore, the new regulations aim to protect Argentina's export markets, which have been significantly impacted by the use of GMOs. By maintaining a robust regulatory framework, the country can continue to export high-quality agricultural products, ensuring that they meet the safety and quality standards of international markets.

In conclusion, Argentina's revision of its GMO regulations represents a strategic move to foster innovation in agriculture while maintaining a balance between scientific progress and regulatory certainty. The updated framework not only supports the development of new biotechnological solutions but also safeguards the country's agricultural sector and its position as a global leader in GMO regulation. This reform is expected to have a positive impact on the economy, strengthening Argentina's agricultural competitiveness and promoting sustainable development in the sector.