Ukraine's new law regulating genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and GMO products comes into force on September 16, introducing clearer requirements for the registration, cultivation, traceability, and labelling of GM crops.

Under the new rules, only GMOs and their sources, including registered varieties and crops, may legally be cultivated or used in Ukraine. The state register of approved GMOs will be open, while businesses involved in the supply chain will be required to declare and report activities involving GMOs.

The law also establishes a formal registration procedure and introduces traceability requirements. Farmers and other market participants may face liability if they knowingly purchase or use unregistered GMO products.

Labelling indicating the presence of GMOs will become mandatory. Depending on the product, labels will specify whether it is genetically modified, contains GMOs or was produced using raw materials containing GMOs.

The rules also cover the cultivation and testing of GM crops in open fields. Anyone planning field trials must notify the authorities in advance and provide information on the location. Local communities will participate in decisions concerning such trials.

The legislation establishes rules for the coexistence of GM crops with conventional and organic farming. GM cultivation must not create problems for neighbouring farmers growing conventional or organic crops, with mandatory requirements governing their parallel production.

Violations can result in fines, while illegally marketed GMO products may be confiscated or destroyed. The law also provides for the cancellation of permits for legal GMO activities in cases of violations.

Source - https://www.freshplaza.com