Gov¡¯t strengthens control over import, production of GMO

Those importing or producing genetically modified organisms (GMO) including genetically modified foodstuffs will have to obtain advance approval from the government. The goods will first undergo inspections to determine any possible health risks or the possibility of damage to the environment.

Violators will face a jail term of up to three years or fines of up to 30 million won.

GMOs being imported for test and research purposes will also be required to obtain government approval if it is possible they might pose a health risk, and research institutions handling such stuff will also have to get state permission.

The Regulatory Reform Committee (RRC) deliberated on a bill governing the international movement of GMOs sponsored by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy, and approved it on Monday.

The RRC required all GMO products to carry labels specifying contents, and producers and importers will have to make available to the public information related to the products¡¯ manufacturing and importing unless it violates corporate secrets.

If a GMO is found to be dangerous after its importation or production or a new scientific fact is discovered concerning its harmful effects, the government will be empowered to cancel the import or production approval and order it to be shipped back to its exporter or producer or be scrapped.

In addition, the RRC decided to establish a bio-safety committee chaired by the prime minister and composed of experts in the private sector, which will deal with major issues related to GMO¡¯s import, production, safety control and compensation for damage.

Moon Chul fullmoon@donga.com