Milling Journal - Q2 2008 - (Page 26) Biotech for the EU NAMA pressing for trade in biotech products. The AgBiotech Planning Committee (ABPC), of which the North American Millers Association (NAMA) is a member, submitted comments to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) concerning the European Union’s (EU) failure to comply with its World Trade Organization (WTO) obligations. According to ABPC, WTO requires the EU to provide for a science-based, timely, and predictable process for regulatory review of agriculture and food biotechnology products. ABPC is supporting USTR’s efforts to normalize trade in ag biotech products with the EU. However, the group urged that all EU and EU member state products—agriculture and non-agriculture— be considered for suspension of concessions and related sanctions, if retaliation becomes necessary. Members of the ABPC also sent a letter to Secretary of Agriculture Ed Schafer urging the U. S. Department of Agriculture to take immediate action to propose revisions to 7 CFR part 340 regulations governing oversight of crops produced through modern biotechnology. The letter stated that, “A comprehensive revision of the rules is necessary to keep pace with rapid developments in technology.” NAMA news 202-484-2200 • www.namamillers.org Ug99 Research The National Association of Wheat Growers and NAMA have made Ug99 research a priority. According to the National Wheat Improvement Committee, this virulent stem rust could affect most wheat varieties in the United States and elsewhere in the world. Ug99, first identified in Uganda in 1999, has been migrating eastward and as of February had spread across the Arabian Peninsula to Iran. The airborne disease is poised to threaten Pakistan and India. Unlike other rusts that reduce yields, Ug99-infected plants can suffer up to 100% loss. 26 Second Quarter 2008 Response No. 261 Response No. 262 MILLING JOURNAL http://www.namamillers.org http://www.gametmfg.com http://www.gametmfg.com
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