The government of Argentina has approved US biotech giant Monsanto’s genetically modified corn, NK603, for planting in the country.


The move comes despite the fact that the European Union, the top buyer of Argentine corn, has not approved the corn for consumption.


The NK603 corn is genetically engineered to resist Monsanto’s Roundup herbicide. Monsanto’s Roundup Ready soybeans and cotton are already approved for planting in Argentina, as are its insect-protected corn and cotton.


Monsanto said Roundup Ready corn will be available to growers this autumn in limited quantities of Monsanto’s branded corn seed for the 2004 planting season in Argentina and should be available more widely in the 2005 and 2006 growing seasons.


“The new approval in Argentina indicates that the major crop-producing countries around the world continue to recognise the safety and benefits of biotechnology agricultural products,” said Brett Begemann, Monsanto’s executive vice president of international commercial.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Monsanto said the size of the potential market in Argentina will be affected by the company’s ability to receive import approvals for Roundup Ready corn in other parts of the world, notably Europe.