Agricultural Gene Technology and Trade - National Regulatory Framework
The Environmental Risk Management Authority
A new regulatory framework has been developed to ensure that research, development and the commercialisation of gene technology is conducted safely in New Zealand. This framework is prescribed by the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act which was passed by Parliament in 1996. The purpose of the Act is to protect people and the environment by preventing or managing any adverse effects of hazardous substances and new organisms, including organisms produced through gene technology. The Act establishes a new body, the Environmental Risk Management Authority (ERMA) to administer the Act.
ERMA's responsibilities will include assessing and approving the import, development, field testing or release of any GMO in New Zealand. The assessment procedures will include consultation with appropriate Government departments and a public notification process so that any interested person can make information available before a decision is reached. In reaching its decisions, ERMA must take account of:
- the sustainability of all native and valued introduced flora and fauna;
- the intrinsic value of ecosystems;
- public health;
- the relationship of Maori and their culture and traditions with their ancestral lands, water, sites, waahi tapu, valued flora and fauna, and other taonga;
- economic and related benefits to be derived from the GMO;
- New Zealand's international obligations.
ERMA is expected to become fully functional by 1 April 1998.
Australia New Zealand Food Authority (ANZFA)
As from 1 July 1996, ANZFA has had the responsibility for setting food standards forboth Australia and New Zealand. In February 1997, ANZFA circulated its draft proposals for regulation of foods derived from gene technology for public comment in Australia and New Zealand. Judging by the number of submissions received from New Zealand it is clear that the subject has generated intense interest in this country. Under the ANZFA proposals, all foods produced using gene technology will need to be submitted for approval. ANZFA draft standard also includes specific proposals relating to labelling of foods derived from gene technology. We believe that the ANZFA proposals will need careful consideration and evaluation, particularly in terms of its consistency with provisions of the SPS and TBT Agreements.
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Contact for Enquiries
Dr Sharon Adamson
Manager,
Innovation Policy
Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry
PO Box 2526
Wellington
NEW ZEALAND
Phone: +64 4 894 0618
Fax: +64 4 4 894 0741
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