This book presents the perspectives of policy-makers and economists on a highly topical subject. Plant breeding patents, the ownership of biological innovation and associated intellectual property rights (IPR) are the subject of increased attention worldwide. They are particularly relevant in the field of agricultural biotechnology, but until recently evoked little policy analysis. IPRs are particularly relevant in the field of agricultural biotechnology. They are issues affecting public and private sector organizations and companies, and are significant for developing as well as developed...

The regulatory systems in place prior to the development and expansion of agricultural biotechnology are still responding to this new form of technology. Such systems include trade law, intellectual property law, contract law, environmental regulations and biosafety regulations.

This book reviews these regulatory changes and consists of 24 chapters developed from papers presented at a conference of the International Consortium on Agricultural Biotechnology Research, held in Italy in July 2002. It primarily considers the relationship between these changes and innovation, market...

In recent years, there have been increasing concerns about the potential health risks of genetically modified foods. Consumer perceptions vary between countries, but are probably most pronounced in Europe and least in North America. These have had a profound and controversial effect on the development of markets for GM products. This book presents a compilation of studies of consumer acceptance of GM foods. These studies utilized different methods and evidence including: price and expenditure data, experimental methods, -willingness to pay-, consumer attitudes and economic consequences.

In recent years, there have been increasing concerns about the potential health risks of genetically modified foods. Consumer perceptions vary between...