b'Despite gene editing proving to be a great ally for agriculture, regulatory agencies clearly define whether a project/prod-new technologies in plant breeding still face some hurdles thatuct is considered a GMO or not, so they are either regulated as slow down their adoption, especially in terms of regulations. GMOs or considered conventional products that are governed Existing biotech regulations for GMOs have established aby existing seed laws in each country;very complicated and burdensome regulatory environment in the regulations allow projects to be evaluated at an early addition to trade barriers without scientific basis. These couldstage or even at the design stage through a pre-consultation impact the use of NBTs and further development. New breed- phase that opens opportunities for better project and invest-ing technologies (NBTs) also face the challenge of acceptancement planning; andby retailers and consumers. Communication to and from these Latin American regulatory authorities interact constantly stakeholders may define the future of these opportunities. trying to harmonize regulations.The countries which are most advanced in developing a viablePlant breeding is key to boosting agricultural productiv-regulatory framework for NBTs are the major food and feed pro- ity, adapting agriculture to climate change and improving the ducer and exporter countries in Latin America. Argentina, Brazil,nutritional value of food and feed, thereby providing benefits Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, Guatemala, and Honduras alreadyto consumers, farmers and society at large. Moreover, these have regulations in place that encourage innovation. technologies are widely accessible and could help democratize If we look closely at these countries regulations, we find thatthe benefits of science. To leverage their potential and promote during their development, these countries clearly separatedfurther investment and development, it is essential to approach GMO and GE regulations. All regulations were developed withinNBTs regulatory, legal and commercial framework from a scien-the existing biotechnology laws or decrees in each country.tific rather than a political perspective. Ultimately, if politics and Some concepts of these countries regulations include:science go hand-in-hand, we will achieve sustainable agriculture,regulations are science-based and all evaluate each projectbetter food and a better life in general.SWon a case-by-case basis;56/ SEEDWORLD.COMOCTOBER 2023'