2. Agri-biotechnology: Legal and Economic Aspects of Using GMOs in EU

The development of the bioeconomy, including biotechnology, has significant meaning for many regions in the European Union. Nineteen member states already have a bioeconomy strategy (or a similar strategic document) in place or are in the process of developing a strategy (Haarich S, Bioeconomy development in EU regions: mapping of EU Member States/regions’ research and innovation plans and strategies for smart specialisation (RIS3) on bioeconomy. Final Report, Framework Contract: 2014.CE.16.BAT Lot 2. Specific Contract: RTD/F1/PP-03681-2015. European Commission, Brussels, 2017). Currently, the development of science and technology creates new opportunities that make bioeconomy one of the most dynamic sectors in the European economy. Biotechnology has the greatest potential impact in the sectors of agriculture, health and industry. The global human population is estimated to reach nine billion people by 2050, which creates a serious challenge for achieving global food security and adequate responses to the effects of climate change. Progress may be achieved by applying knowledge of molecular and genetic mechanisms to create or improve agricultural processes and food production. This chapter aims to review current knowledge on agri-biotechnology, within the context of the legal and economic aspects of using GMOs (genetically modified organisms). The area of GM crops in EU countries in 2017 was marginal. GM plants were cultivated in a few EU countries: Spain (0.1 million hectares), Portugal (less than 0.1 million hectares) and marginally in Slovakia and Czech Republic. As a consequence, EU countries import raw materials and GM products from other countries. Finally, we highlight the legal aspects of using GM plants in agriculture, including GM products that are registered as food and feed. In the last chapter, we present perspectives on the development of the bioeconomy and biotechnology in the European Union.