French GMmaize

7 August 1998

French GMmaize

FRANCE has given consent for two genetically modified maize varieties to be imported for into the EU – a herbicide-tolerant variety from Agrevo and an insect resistant one from Monsanto.

Both varieties were approved by Brussels last March, but France, (which initially sponsored the applications), delayed final consent until Wed (Aug 5).

The decision means that US exports of maize to the EU can now commence, putting further downward pressure on coarse grain prices. The trade had been held up because the US could not guarantee its maize was GMO free.

The US was seeking damages for loss of business.