Peru's agricultural minister has criticized a moratorium bill for Living Modified Organisms (LMOs) due to gaps that would prevent access to modern medical developments.

Agriculture Minister Jorge Villasante told a press conference the 10-year moratorium bill was presented before parliament today with nine conclusions, including a rejection of advances in biosecurity material since the enactment of Law No. 27104 in 1999.

The document also states five years would be given to establish filtration networks to minimize the risk of introducing new genes to native plants.

But the minister was critical, highlighting 'serious' shortcomings with gaps in terms of activities related to modern biotechnology and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

He said the moratorium would prevent the entry and trade of biotech drugs, while it could also put the country in breach of its agreements with the World Trade Organization (WTO).

In addition to impeding food technology development, the moratorium would also prevent the import of vaccines for human health, insulin and many other inputs along the health industry spectrum.

Photo: MINAG

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