Positive step forward for grains industry after South Australia lifts GM ban

South Australia has lifted its long term ban on growing GM crops, opening up an array of opportunities for the grains industry.

Positive outcome: Grain Producers chair Andrew Weidemann said the lift on the ban will help breeders and scientists use the technology to boost productivity.

SOUTH Australia’s ability to now produce genetically modified crops is a positive step for the grains industry and will boost productivity, according to a peak industry body.

The South Australian Government last week lifted a 16-year ban on growing GM crops after accepting changes proposed by the Opposition, and will allow growers to produce GM crops ahead of harvest next year.

However, individual councils can decide whether to keep the ban in place or not.

“Local councils will have a time-limited ability to apply to be a GM crop cultivation-free area and the moratorium will remain on Kangaroo Island,” South Australian Primary Industries and Regional Development Minister Tim Whetstone said.

Grain Producers Australia chairman Andrew Weidemann said there was a high level of interest overseas in GM crops, with the ban in the state previously holding back opportunities.

“Now we can actively use the technology and it is a positive step forward right across Australia to have open access,” he said.

Mr Weidemann said GM crops were imperative to lifting productivity levels, which he said had been flat-lining.

“Currently the situation is flat-lining and trailing badly,” he said.

“It will help breeders and scientists use the technology to boost productivity, which needs to increase by 2050 to help feed a growing population.”

He said South Australian growers would likely play a “quick catch-up” following years of a ban.

MORE: GRAIN GROWERS REAP REWARD OF PLUMMETING DIESEL PRICES

EARLY START WORTH THE GAMBLE

Minister Whetstone said the moratorium lift put South Australia on a level playing field with the rest of the country which had had access to GM technology for the past decade.

“By giving our farmers more tools in the toolbox we are backing them to boost the agriculture industry as they battle drought and a changing climate,” he said.