Setting the Stage

One of the workshop's objectives was to increase awareness of the potential benefits of agricultural biotechnology for food and nutrition security. Keynote presentations by Dr. Stuart Smyth from the University of Saskatchewan and Dr. Eric Hallerman from Virginia Polytechnic Institute emphasized the need for efficient regulation to increase investment in research and how biotechnological innovations can contribute to resiliency in food production systems in the face of climate change.

Fostering Cooperation

Presenters from each ASEAN member state delivered a status update on their countries’ biotechnology and biosafety policies, with representation from countries already cultivating biotech crops, those that have not yet made approvals for cultivation but are importing biotech crops, and countries with frameworks under development. Case studies showcasing efforts toward bilateral and multilateral cooperation and harmonization were then provided to inform facilitated discussions about opportunities for regulatory collaboration within ASEAN.

Sharing Experiences

On the second day, participants traveled to Bandung to tour a farm producing seed of the genetically engineered (GE) late blight resistant potato approved in Indonesia. They then visited facilities at the University of Padjadjaran, where there is active work on GE catfish. A seminar delivered by GE catfish researchers at the university rounded out the program.

Identifying Opportunities

The final day started with additional presentations from the Philippines and Singapore on the status of their policies for new breeding techniques. Concluding the workshop, participants and delegates were divided into breakout groups to discuss perceived challenges for regulatory cooperation. They then worked to develop summary points describing priorities and opportunities for future collaboration and harmonization in line with ASEAN’s mission.