Browse Data and Analysis

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s (KSA) regulations allow the importation of biotech plant products, but they are required to be labeled if they contain more than one percent genetically engineered (GE) plant ingredients. As a result, many retail packaged food importers do not import biotech foods due to concerns that biotech labeling could jeopardize their image.

The Thai government has made significant progress in addressing food security and climate change challenges by advancing its biotechnology regulatory landscape. Recognizing the benefits of genome editing technology as a key driver for enhancing the competitiveness and value of the agricultural sector, Thailand has taken a major step forward.

The report details the Department of Agriculture's regulation on the criteria, methods, and conditions for certifying genome-edited plants. This regulation enables Thailand to access new plant varieties, enhancing the country’s ability to address food security and climate change challenges.

Thailand has finally established legislation on the certification of organisms developed using genome editing technology for agricultural use. The country aims to better align with international standards and practices and enhance its competitiveness of agricultural products in the global economy.

Thailand has yet to finalize its Biodiversity Act. Since December 4, 2022, the Thai Food and Drug Administration has enforced two notifications regarding GE (termed “Genetically Modified” or GM) food imports, production and labeling.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s (KSA) regulations allow the importation of biotech plant products, but they are required to be labeled if they contain more than one percent genetically engineered (GE) plant ingredients.

The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) Notification No.431 B.E. 2565 (2022) RE: Foods Derived from the Genetically Modified Organisms and Ministerial Notification No.432 RE: Labeling of GM Foods went into force on December 4, 2022.

The Thai Cabinet has approved the draft Biodiversity Law in principle. The draft is in the legislative process and currently with the Council of State for review and approval on text. The Thai Food and Drug Administration finally published its two...

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s (KSA) regulations allow the importation of biotech plant products, but they are required to be labeled if they contain more than one percent genetically engineered (GE) plant ingredients. As a result, many retail packed food importers do not import biotech foods due to concerns that biotech labeling could jeopardize their product image. However, Saudi Arabia imports large quantities of biotech U.S. corn, soybeans, and their products.

Saudi regulations allow the importation of biotech plant products, but they are required to be labeled if they contain more than one percent genetically engineered (GE) plant ingredients.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE) has yet to send the draft Biodiversity Law, which includes biosafety regulations covering research, field trial, and commercialization for genetically engineered plant, animal, and microorganisms, to the Cabinet for approval.

Although Saudi Arabia has adopted regulations that allow for the import of biotech seeds, Saudi farmers have not shown an interest in importing or planting biotech seeds.