Global GM crop valued at $44 bn

The commercial value of the total global production of genetically engineered crops in 2003-04 is reckoned at $44 billion.

Nearly 98 per cent of this is accounted for by five countries - the US, Argentina, China, Canada and Brazil. Bulk of the volume is from four crops -soyabean, cotton, corn and rapeseed.

These estimates have been made in a study entitled "Global diffusion of plant biotechnology: international adoption and research in 2004" conducted by C. Ford Runge, director of the University of Minnesota's Centre for international food and agricultural policy.

The study reveals that the US accounts for over half of the biotech crop output in value terms, roughly around $27.5 billion.

Argentina comes next with $ 8.9 billion, followed by China with $ 3.9 billion, Canada with $ 2 billion and Brazil with $ 1.6 billion.

India has begun commercial cultivation of only genetically engineered cotton.

Field trials and experiments are underway in the country on several other biotech crops, including cabbage, potatoes, rice and tomato.

North America is the epicentre for plant biotechnology research.

Over half of the 63 nations engaged in research, development and production of such crops are developing countries.

"Western Europe, China, Argentina,Brazil, South Africa, Australia and India are centres of influence that will

help lead development into the future," the study maintains.

China has invested heavily in biotech research, making the country second in the world in biotech research funding behind the US.

In India, at least 20 academic and research institutions are involved in plant biotech research.

"Many Indian scientists hope to usher in the second green revolution while adding another facet to its already booming knowledge-based economy," the study points out.