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Ecuador—modern biotechnology in Ecuador—development and legal framework

Abstract:

In this chapter, we acknowledge the slow development of modern biotechnology in Ecuador. Some research projects have used molecular tools mainly to study the genetic diversity of several plant and animal species of importance for conservation or agriculture. To our knowledge, there could be a few cases, or none at all, in which the use of modern biotechnology is applied for industrial purposes. In this context, we describe an example of a research project related to the genetic transformation of bananas, an important agricultural crop for the country. The current regulations related to this subject are analyzed, and the lack of a National Biosafety Framework that ensures the development and proper use of these technologies in Ecuador is highlighted. The lack of political decision and the correct understanding of modern biotechnology and its implications for various sectors of society represent the greatest …