Biotechnology Law at Tunisia
Tunisia's biotechnology legal framework is currently under development, with a draft biosafety law awaiting parliamentary approval. Here's an overview of the current status and key aspects:
🧬 Biosafety Law Draft
Tunisia drafted a national biosafety framework in 2014, but its adoption has been delayed due to political and economic reforms. As of 2024, there is no set timeframe for its review and enactment by Parliament. Consequently, Tunisia currently places no restrictions on the importation of genetically engineered (GE) crops. Agricultural biotechnology activities are limited to scientific capacity building, with no GE products developed or commercialized locally. However, Tunisia continues to import agricultural products derived from GE technologies, particularly feed grains for livestock and poultry .
🌍 International Commitments
Tunisia ratified the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety in 2002 (Law No. 58 of June 25, 2002), committing to the safe handling, transport, and use of living modified organisms (LMOs). This international agreement influences the country's approach to biotechnology regulation, aiming to ensure environmental protection and human health considerations .
🧪 Regulatory Oversight
The Laboratoire Central d'Analyses et d'Essais (LCAE) is designated to oversee the control and prevention of GMOs in Tunisia. In December 2016, LCAE became a member of a national network comprising four laboratories dedicated to the research and detection of GMOs. This network plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance with biosafety standards and monitoring the presence of GMOs in the environment .
🔬 Research and Development
Tunisia's agricultural biotechnology activities are primarily focused on building scientific capacity and developing a basic understanding of the technology. Research institutions such as the Centre Biotechnologique de Sfax (CBS) are involved in biotechnology research. However, the sector faces challenges related to funding and infrastructure, limiting the scope of research and development activities .
📌 Summary
Biosafety Law: Drafted in 2014; awaiting parliamentary approval.
GMO Importation: No restrictions; imports primarily consist of feed grains.
International Commitments: Ratified the Cartagena Protocol in 2002.
Regulatory Oversight: LCAE oversees GMO control and prevention.
Research and Development: Limited to scientific capacity building; challenges in funding and infrastructure.
Tunisia's biotechnology legal framework is in a transitional phase, with ongoing efforts to establish comprehensive regulations that balance scientific advancement with environmental and public health considerations.
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