Argentine Seed Association Supports UPOV 91 as a Strategic Step for Competitiveness

The Argentine Seed Association (ASA) has expressed strong support for President Javier Milei’s initiative to modernize plant intellectual property laws and secure Argentina’s accession to the 1991 Act of the Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV 91). The association argues that this reform is crucial for boosting agricultural competitiveness and productivity, which have been stagnant for decades due to outdated regulations and a lack of clear, technology-aligned rules.

In a statement, ASA welcomed President Milei’s prioritization of updating the plant intellectual property regime, emphasizing that legal certainty is essential for sustained growth. The current 1978 regulatory framework in Argentina, which does not align with the international standards set by UPOV 91, has left the country at a disadvantage in the global agricultural market. By adopting UPOV 91, Argentina would join 63 other nations that have already recognized the importance of modern, effective plant variety protection laws.

ASA highlights that the 1991 Act provides a robust framework for protecting plant breeders’ rights, including the concept of “essentially derived varieties,” which ensures that breeders receive appropriate compensation for their innovations. This legal certainty would encourage innovation, attract investment, and improve yields, ultimately enhancing Argentina’s export competitiveness. The association also notes that the reform would strike a balance between protecting breeders’ rights and allowing farmers to use seeds for their own purposes, ensuring a sustainable and equitable system.

Furthermore, ASA argues that updating the regulatory framework would strengthen economic freedom in Argentina. By creating a predictable and transparent environment for companies, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and research institutions, the reform would foster the development of new plant varieties and increased value-added products. This, in turn, would prevent talented professionals and investors from seeking opportunities in jurisdictions with more favorable intellectual property laws.

In a press release, ASA underscored that the modernization of plant intellectual property laws is not only a strategic priority for the government but also a necessity for Argentina to compete effectively on the global stage. The association believes that adopting UPOV 91 will empower the agricultural sector, drive innovation, and bolster the country’s export capacity, ultimately contributing to long-term economic growth and stability.

In conclusion, the Argentine Seed Association’s support for President Milei’s push to adopt UPOV 91 reflects a shared vision of modernizing agricultural policies to foster competitiveness, innovation, and economic development. By aligning with international standards and ensuring clear, technology-aligned rules, Argentina can position itself as a leader in the global agricultural market and attract both domestic and foreign investment. The reform would not only benefit plant breeders and farmers but also create a more dynamic and resilient agricultural sector capable of thriving in an increasingly competitive global economy.