Biotechnology Law at Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka's biotechnology legal and regulatory framework is evolving to ensure the safe and ethical use of modern biotechnology, particularly concerning genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Here's an overview of the current status and ongoing developments:
🇱🇰 Legal and Policy Framework
Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety: Sri Lanka ratified this international treaty in 2004, committing to regulate the transboundary movement of living modified organisms (LMOs) resulting from modern biotechnology .
National Biosafety Framework (NBF): Approved in 2005, the NBF outlines the country's approach to biosafety, including risk assessment and management strategies .
Draft Biosafety Act: A specific law addressing the safe use of GMOs was drafted in 2014. However, as of 2024, it remains pending enactment, awaiting approvals from the Attorney General and the Cabinet .
🧬 Biotechnology Policy and Development
National Biotechnology Policy (2009): This policy guides the development and application of biotechnology in Sri Lanka. Recognizing the need for updates, the National Science Foundation (NSF) initiated a review in 2022 to address emerging challenges and opportunities in the sector .
Policy Revision Recommendations: In March 2025, the NSF handed over a set of revised policy recommendations to the National Science and Technology Commission (NASTEC) for further action .
🛡️ Regulatory Measures on GMOs
Import and Labeling Regulations: Sri Lanka requires approval from the Chief Food Authority for the importation or sale of GM-derived products intended for human consumption. However, the country lacks a functioning approval mechanism for GM products, effectively imposing a ban on such imports .
Amendment to Food Regulations (2023): In June 2023, Sri Lanka amended the Food (Control of Import, Labeling, and Sale of Genetically Modified Foods) Regulations (2006). The new regulation exempts food containing less than 0.9% GM material from prior approval and labeling requirements .
🧪 Institutional Support and Capacity Building
National Biosafety Clearing House (BCH): Launched in 2021, the Sri Lanka BCH serves as a repository for information on biosafety, including regulations, guidelines, and risk assessments. It facilitates public access to biosafety-related data and supports compliance with the Cartagena Protocol .
Capacity Building Initiatives: The Ministry of Environment, with support from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF), has undertaken projects to strengthen biosafety regulations, enhance risk assessment capabilities, and develop public awareness programs .
📚 Public Engagement and Awareness
Public participation is integral to Sri Lanka's biosafety framework. Article 23 of the Cartagena Protocol mandates public consultation in decision-making processes regarding GMOs. To promote informed decision-making, the government has established platforms like the Sri Lanka BCH and conducted awareness programs targeting students and the general public .
🔄 Ongoing Developments
While Sri Lanka has made significant strides in developing a biosafety framework, challenges remain, particularly in finalizing and implementing the Biosafety Act. The country continues to work towards establishing a comprehensive legal and regulatory environment that balances the benefits of biotechnology with the protection of human health and the environment
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