Growth in GM demand slows

21 December 2000



Growth in GM demand slows

By FWi staff

DEMAND for genetically modified crops is still growing, although the rate of increase in 2000 was a quarter of the 1999 level, reports the Financial Times.

The area sown with GM soya, maize, rape, cotton and potato grew 11% to 109.2m acres, according to an end of year survey.

But that compared to a 44% rise in 1999 and 150% in 1998.

Growth was tracked by the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications.

Biotech industry figures claimed the figures showed environmentalists had failed to halt GM technology and farmers were embracing it.

But environmental protesters said the figures showed a levelling-out as farmers began to question the marketability and benefits of GM technology.

ISAAA is a non-profit making organisation dedicated to improving agriculture in the developing world.

• Financial Times 21 December 2000 page 12