b'Despite gene editing proving to be a great ally for agriculture, Regulations are science-based and all evaluate each project new technologies in plant breeding still face some hurdles thaton a case-by-case basis;slow down their adoption, especially in terms of regulations.Regulatory agencies clearly define whether a project/product Existing biotech regulations for GMOs have established a veryis considered a GMO or not, so they are either regulated as GMOs complicated and burdensome regulatory environment in addi- or considered "conventional" products that are governed by exist-tion to trade barriers without scientific basis which could impacting seed laws in each country;the use of NBTs and further developments. It also faces the chal-The regulations allow projects to be evaluated at an early lenge of acceptance by retailers and consumers, and communi- stage or even at the design stage, this through a "pre-consultation cation to and from these stakeholders may define the future ofphase" that opens opportunities for better project and investment these opportunities. planning;The countries which are most advanced in developing Latin American regulatory authorities interact constantly a viable regulatory framework for NBTs are the major foodtrying to harmonize regulations.and feed producer and exporter countries in Latin America.Plant breeding is key to boosting agricultural productivity, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, Guatemala andadapting agriculture to climate change and improving nutritional Honduras already have regulations in place that encourage inno- food and feed, while providing benefits to consumers, farmers and vation. society at large. Moreover, these technologies are widely accessible If we look closely at these regulations, we find that duringand could help democratize the benefits of science. But to leverage their development, these countries clearly separated GMO andtheir potential and promote further investment and development, it GE regulations. All regulations were developed within the exist- is essential to approach the regulatory, legal and commercial frame-ing biotechnology laws or decrees in each country. The basicwork from a scientific rather than a political perspective. Ultimately, concept is to separate GMO regulations from NBT regulations. if politics and science go hand-in-hand, we will achieve sustainable Some concepts to keep in mind: agriculture, better food and a better life in general.SWLATAMSEEDWORLD.COM /23'