Chile avanza en claridad regulatoria para nuevas tecnologías de fitomejoramiento en la agricultura

Chile has taken a significant step towards the responsible use of agricultural biotechnology by presenting a proposal to formalize the technical evaluation procedure for plant materials developed using New Breeding Techniques (NBT). This initiative aims to provide greater legal certainty, strengthen supervision, and align Chile with the growing global movement recognizing these tools as essential for producing more sustainable, nutritious, and resilient foods.

The Ministry of Agriculture, through the Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG), has submitted the proposal to organize and transparently manage the technical evaluation process that SAG has been applying for over eight years to assess biotechnology-developed plant materials. The goal is to clearly distinguish products obtained through NBT—methods that replicate natural genetic changes with precision, without introducing genes from other species—from transgenic approaches, which incorporate foreign genetic material and are already regulated in Chile under existing Organism Genetically Modified (OGM) legislation.

The mandatory evaluation process, required before any material is used in the field, allows SAG to assess developments on a case-by-case basis to determine whether they should be treated as conventional or if existing OGM regulations should apply. By issuing an official and transparent regulation, backed by legal frameworks, the state strengthens the protection of health and the environment while fostering public confidence in the responsible use of these technologies.

Dr. Miguel Ángel Sánchez, executive director of Chilebio, highlights that "the formalization of this scientifically based procedure, in place since 2017 and aligned with a global trend, will enable farmers to access better products and improve agricultural productivity."

This regulatory clarity is crucial as NBTs have gained recognition worldwide as powerful tools for crop improvement. Unlike transgenic methods, NBTs do not involve the insertion of foreign genes, making them more acceptable to some consumers and regulators. By differentiating NBT products from OGMs, Chile is ensuring that its agricultural sector can innovate responsibly while maintaining high standards of safety and environmental protection.

The proposal also emphasizes the importance of transparency and public participation in the evaluation process. This will help build trust in the regulatory system and demonstrate that Chile is committed to using biotechnology in a way that benefits both farmers and society.

In the context of global food security challenges, the adoption of NBTs can contribute to more efficient and sustainable agricultural practices. By formalizing the evaluation procedure, Chile is not only setting a precedent in South America but also positioning itself as a leader in the responsible integration of biotechnology into agriculture.

This regulatory advancement is a testament to Chile's commitment to balancing innovation with caution. As the country continues to develop its agricultural sector, the clear distinction between NBTs and OGMs will provide farmers with the tools they need to adapt to changing environmental conditions and meet the growing demand for food.

In conclusion, Chile's regulatory clarity for new technologies in plant breeding represents a significant step forward in the responsible use of biotechnology in agriculture. By differentiating NBTs from OGMs and implementing a transparent evaluation process, the country is ensuring that its agricultural innovations are safe, sustainable, and aligned with global best practices. This regulatory framework not only protects public health and the environment but also fosters innovation and agricultural productivity, positioning Chile as a pioneer in the responsible application of biotechnology.