Abstract

Reference: IDB 2002 
Title: Agricultural Biotechnology and Rural Development in Latin America and the Caribbean, Implications for IDB Lending.
Authors: Trigo, E.J., Traxler, G., Pray, C.E. and Echeverria, R.
Publisher: Inter-American Development Bank, Rural Development Unit, Mail Stop W-0500, 1300 New York Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20577, USA
Publication details: Sustainable Development Department Technical Paper Series, 2002, 71p

This IDB working paper tackles one of the key issues in agricultural development facing countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. This report concentrates on the potential for biotechnology research to benefit consumers and producers of food in Latin America and the Caribbean. Its objective is to provide general guidance to IDB lending for agriculture development. The study includes policy suggestions regarding agricultural biotechnology issues in IDB-funded programs. Special attention is given to the problems and opportunities of biotechnology for developing agriculture in LAC; the implications of biotechnology for public research organizations, including aspects of regional funding for research; biotechnology’s potential contribution to reducing poverty, protecting the environment and providing food security. It also addresses biosafety consideration and consumer acceptance issue.

This study proposes specific areas for IDB to support, such as capacity development; creating an enabling environment for biosafety, IPR, public awareness; and technology delivery infrastructure. The IDB has traditionally financed the strengthening of national and international agricultural research systems via loans and grants and is currently financing some agricultural biotechnology activities as components of projects. There are opportunities to continue and increase this support at the national level, and increasingly at the regional level .

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