Sri Lanka: Agricultural Biotechnology Annual

Sri Lanka does not produce genetically engineered (GE) crops or animals. There is some GE research at the laboratory level, but there is no commercialization. The lack of a legal framework and biosafety procedures are a major setback; the country is in the process of finalizing regulatory biotechnology policies. Policies remain at varying stages of development and implementation, and include the National Biotechnology Policy, the National Biosafety Framework (that encompasses the National Biosafety Policy and National Biosafety Act), as well as the Control of Import, Labeling and Sale of Genetically Modified Foods Regulation of 2006. Development of the National Biosafety Framework conforms to commitments made under the Cartagena Protocol (signed in 2000 and ratified in 2004). The new legal framework for biosafety will become effective with the enactment of the National Biosafety Act. The draft act is with the Legal Draftsman's Department, awaiting further approvals from the Attorney General and the Cabinet.