Abstract
Political Factors Influence the Development of Genetic Engineering
The advent of genetic engineering in the agro industry has heralded an era of
positive growth in the crop protection sector. As the industry becomes
increasingly conscious of the benefits of genetic engineering, political
considerations, and influences are expected to drive growth. With the government
organizations of various countries entering into political agreements regarding
genetic engineering and biotechnology, the global technical scenario is likely
to emerge stronger. Further, as the production capacity in many regions,
especially within the East European countries continues to expand, the potential
worldwide production capacity is likely to increase.
This research from Frost & Sullivan evaluates the current and future
potential of genetic engineering in the protection of crops. It examines the key
products that are available commercially for herbicide and insecticide tolerant
crops. Further, it studies the key technologies that are available for disease
and pest control using genetic engineering techniques. Additionally, it reviews
the various drivers and restraints that govern the global crop protection
markets.
Non-food Sectors More Conducive for Genetic Engineering Technology
Applications
Food crops are not the only area where genetic engineering is likely to prove
beneficial. In fact, with most consumers tending to be a trifle wary of
genetically-modified food products, investors are likely to find the non-food
sectors such as industrial feedstock or biofuels much more lucrative.
"Genetically engineered (GE) plants are produced by splicing foreign
genetic material within the plant genomes and creating new species which can not
arise naturally," notes the analyst. "There are high chances of
recombination and mutation of these genes, which could cause biological
pollution."
As the industry continues to contend with the lack of public awareness
regarding the contribution of genetic engineering to food production, it is
essential to retain the trust of the public by monitoring all the steps of the
production and marketing chain. This is likely to improve the performance of the
food sector as well.
Genetic Engineering Techniques Proves More Efficient than Traditional
Techniques
In comparison to the conventional crop protection technologies, genetic
engineering has several advantages. While traditional protection techniques are
efficient, they are incapable of ensuring that the final product has all the
desired characteristics. For instance, it has been observed that the
introduction of certain genes produces species that are more tolerant to
herbicides such as paraquat than the conventional and traditional varieties. The
enzymes produced by these modified species also improve the plants immunity to
certain other commonly employed herbicides such as acifluoren.
"Genetic engineering techniques and biotechnology has resulted in
increased research and development, rapid innovation, and prolonged perseverance
in the face of mounting research costs on an industry level," notes the
analyst. "These factors have created conditions that are conducive for the
further development of genetic engineering in the area of crop protection."
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