Brasília, August 11, 2003 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - Criteria for the cultivation of genetically modified (transgenic) soybeans are expected to be established by the federal government at the earliest possible date. This information was provided today by the Chief of the Presidential Civilian Advisory Staff, Minister José Dirceu, who met with agricultural sector representatives from Rio Grande do Sul. Governor Germano Rigotto (RS) accompanied the delegation.

According to Carlos Sperotto, vice-president of the Brazilian Agriculture and Livestock Confederation (CNA) and president of the Agricultural Federation of the State of Rio Grande do Sul, the Minister indicated the possibility of issuing a Provisional Executive Order to provide a solution to the question of regulating the use of genetically modified varieties. This would allow for the adoption of regional criteria in the cultivation, harvest, and commercialization of transgenic soybeans.

At the meeting Minister Dirceu requested the private sector to present proposals for the creation of a logistic plan for the harvesting and marketing of traditional soybeans. Dirceu himself will present the proposal to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

Sperotto also informed that the Minister was touched by the fact that the meeting was attended by representatives of large, medium, and small-scale farmers, as well as the state governor. Everyone expressed concern over how to cultivate the next crop, for which planting gets underway in the coming months. With the lack of definition about the possibility of planting transgenic soybeans, farmers are having problems planning the cultivation of their crops, and time is running out.

During the last growing season, Rio Grande do Sul planted 3.5 million hectares of soybeans. Sperotto stated that there is an expectation that, if the cultivation of transgenics is authorized, 90% of soybean production in the state will be done with genetically modified varieties. (DAS)