GM Crops in Ethiopia: A Realistic Way to Increase Agricultural Performance?

Trends in Biotechnology, January 2011, Vol. 29, No. 1

3 Pages Posted: 24 Oct 2012

See all articles by Hossein Azadi

Hossein Azadi

Shiraz University

Nanda Talsma

affiliation not provided to SSRN

Peter Ho

Delft University of Technology

Kiumars Zarafshani

affiliation not provided to SSRN

Date Written: January 11, 2011

Abstract

Much has been published on the application of genetically modified (GM) crops in Africa, but agricultural performance has hardly been addressed. This paper discusses the main consequences of GM crops on agricultural performance in Ethiopia. Three main criteria of performance – productivity, equitability and sustainability – are evaluated in the context of the Ethiopian agricultural sector. We conclude that the application of GM crops can improve the agricultural productivity and sustainability, whereas equitability cannot be stimulated and might even exacerbate the gap between socio-economic classes. Before introducing GM crops to Ethiopian agriculture, regulatory issues should be addressed, public research should be fostered, and more ex ante values and socioeconomic studies should be included.

Suggested Citation

Azadi, Hossein and Talsma, Nanda and Ho, Peter and Zarafshani, Kiumars, GM Crops in Ethiopia: A Realistic Way to Increase Agricultural Performance? (January 11, 2011). Trends in Biotechnology, January 2011, Vol. 29, No. 1, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2164271

Hossein Azadi

Shiraz University ( email )

Eram Paradise
Shiraz 71454, Fars
Iran

Nanda Talsma

affiliation not provided to SSRN ( email )

Peter Ho (Contact Author)

Delft University of Technology ( email )

Jaffalaan 5
P.O. Box 5015
Delft, Zuid-Holland 2600 GA
Netherlands

Kiumars Zarafshani

affiliation not provided to SSRN ( email )

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