Hungary passes law limiting GMO crops

Last week Hungary’s parliament approved unanimously a new regulation that will restrict the genetically modified crops allowed in Hungary, which are currently authorised by the European Union.

The ministry of rural development welcomed the law, which maximises chances of the country remaining GMO-free.
 
The new regulations will place a strict limit on genetically modified crops in Hungary which are currently authorised by the European Union, as well as potential future GMOs, the ministry said.
 
The law will enable farmers, local communities, local councils and regions to practice their autonomous rights more effectively while backing grassroots initiatives to establish GMO-free regions.
 
It hands increased powers to controlling authorities over imports of unlicensed products, and firms up penalties if rules relating to licenced activities are transgressed, it added.
 
The GMO ban will apply to public production but private growers will be allowed to experiment on plots as long as the surrounding environment is properly protected.