IISER MOHALI

Abstract: This presentation explores the divergence in GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) policies between the United States and the European Union, tracing the roots of the conflict to differing regulatory frameworks. While the U.S. embraces GMOs under the principle of “sound science,” requiring scientific evidence to restrict trade, the EU adopts the “precautionary principle,” favoring restrictive policies due to consumer skepticism and perceived health risks. The WTO dispute initiated by the U.S., Argentina, and Canada in 2003 challenged the EU’s de facto moratorium on GMO approvals, leading to a 2006 WTO ruling largely favouring the plaintiffs. Despite this, the EU’s complex and politically influenced approval process remained unchanged. The EU’s stringent labelling and approval standards have significantly altered global trade flows, diverting exports from GMO-producing countries like the U.S. and Canada to non-GMO suppliers such as Brazil and Australia. Individual EU member states have varied in their responses, with some banning GMO cultivation entirely. The controversy extended to food aid, notably during the 2002 southern African famine, where GM maize donations were rejected over safety and trade concerns. The presentation concludes by questioning whether WTO interventions or political strategies can resolve the persistent GMO disputes. The Indian government is under pressure from Trump administration to open the agricultural sector and allow import of agricultural commodities from US. Supreme Court of India has directed the government to formulate a national policy on GM crops, which is currently under consideration. The transatlantic dispute offers some lessons for India.

About the Speaker: Dr. Amarjit S. Bhullar acquired his master’s and Ph.D. in economics from Punjabi University in the early eighties. He held various positions at Punjab Agricultural University, including Professor, Associate Professor and Assistant Professor. He was invited by the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) as a Visiting Professor for one year in 2010-11. In 2013, he joined UNBC. He held the dual position of Assistant Professor of Economics and Adjunct Professor of Business at UNBC. He was awarded the UNBC’s Excellence in Service Award in May 2021. Dr. Bhullar has taught diverse courses in economics. He has published widely in reputed journals such as Economic and Political Weekly. Currently, he is Associate Director, Research and Analysis, at Connect Media Network in Surrey, BC. He has delivered more than 200 media talks/interviews so far.