Biotechnology and Agricultural Trade Program

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Biotechnology and Agricultural Trade Program
Type Program
Sponsor Organization Foreign Agricultural Service
Top Organization N/A
Creation Legislation Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990
Website Website
Purpose To mitigate non-tariff trade barriers related to biotechnology by providing technical assistance and project grants to promote the acceptance and understanding of biotechnology-derived agricultural products in international markets.[1]
Program Start 1990
Initial Funding
Duration Indefinite
Historic Yes

Biotechnology and Agricultural Trade Program — The 2002 farm bill (P.L. 107-171 Sec. 3204) authorizes appropriations of up to $6 million annually for technical assistance and public and private sector project grants to remove or mitigate significant foreign regulatory nontariff barriers to U.S. exports involving: agricultural commodities produced through biotechnology.

It is designed to address trade challenges posed by regulatory, technical, and acceptance issues surrounding biotechnology in agriculture. By offering technical assistance, funding for public and private sector projects, and promoting dialogue, BATP aims to facilitate the global trade of U.S. biotechnology products, ensuring they meet international standards and consumer expectations.[2]

Official Site

Goals

  • Resolve or mitigate non-tariff barriers to U.S. biotech exports.[3]
  • Enhance international regulatory systems for biotechnology products.
  • Promote understanding and acceptance of biotechnology among foreign markets.

Organization

The BATP is managed by the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) under the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). It operates through grants and cooperative agreements, supporting projects that range from technical assistance to educational initiatives. Funding for the program comes from USDA's budget, with oversight by FAS staff specializing in biotechnology and international trade.

The leadership role for this program might be held by the **Director of the Biotechnology and Agricultural Trade Program** or a similar position within FAS.

Partners

  • No specific partnerships are listed, but BATP collaborates with various international organizations, foreign governments, and industry stakeholders.

History

Authorized by the **Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990**, BATP was established to help navigate the complexities of international trade in biotechnology products. Over the years, it has played a key role in negotiations and capacity building, particularly in developing countries adopting biotechnology regulations. Significant events include the program's role in facilitating U.S. biotech products' market access and addressing trade disputes related to GMO labeling and safety standards.

Funding

While specific initial funding amounts are not detailed, BATP receives funding through USDA's annual budget allocations for agricultural trade programs. Funding supports grants and technical assistance aimed at removing trade barriers.

Implementation

Implementation involves:

  • Providing grants for projects that address trade barriers related to biotechnology.
  • Offering technical support to foreign governments in developing science-based regulations.
  • Organizing workshops and educational programs to increase biotechnology acceptance.

The program is designed to continue indefinitely, adapting to new trade challenges and biotechnological developments.

Funding

Funds can also be used to address trade-related food safety, disease, and other sanitary and phytosanitary trade concerns.

Related

External links


References

  1. ↑ "Biotechnology and Agricultural Trade Program". https://www.fas.usda.gov/programs/biotechnology-and-agricultural-trade-program. Retrieved January 30, 2025. 
  2. ↑ "Biotechnology and Agricultural Trade Program". https://www.fas.usda.gov/programs/biotechnology-and-agricultural-trade-program. Retrieved January 30, 2025. 
  3. ↑ "Biotechnology and Agricultural Trade Program". https://www.fas.usda.gov/programs/biotechnology-and-agricultural-trade-program. Retrieved January 30, 2025. 

Public Domain This article incorporates public domain material from Jasper Womach, Report for Congress: Agriculture: A Glossary of Terms, Programs, and Laws, 2005 Edition, Congressional Research Service, https://web.archive.org/web/20110810044532/http://ncseonline.org/nle/crsreports/05jun/97-905.pdf 

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