SciDev.Net

The European Union and Mercosur will inject more than US$4 million into five projects for research and development in biotechnology.

A breed of rice that can withstand complete submersion for more than two weeks has passed its field tests and is close to official release.

A technique that increases genetic mutation rates in crops could aid the global food crisis but needs more investment.

The GM debate in Mexico could be reignited by scientists' discovery of modified genes in traditional maize.

A bottleneck in the production of the leading antimalarial drug – the plant-based artemisinin – could soon be eased.

An Argentinean company has produced a genetically-modified breed of cows that could increase milk production by 20%.

Kenya's parliament expects to approve its much-delayed biosafety bill before the Christmas break.

The Indian government has come under fire over alleged flaws in regulating trials on genetically modified crops.

The new Ecuadorian Constitution has declared the country GMO free and will enforce strict rules to regulate the use and development of modern biotechnologies.

Researchers have discovered a gene that plays a role in the size and weight of rice grains, which could potentially boost yields.

Biotechnology will not offer the full solution to Africa's food problems, warn scientists at the All Africa Congress on Biotechnology.

Bt cotton, the genetically modified crop, can protect neighbouring crops from pests, report Chinese scientists.

Researchers in developing countries will screen thousands of crops for traits to help them adapt to climate change.

University-company collaborations, human resources and political will are key for pushing biotechnology in Uruguay, says a prominent scientist.

The Chinese government will roll out a US$3.5 billion research project for GM crops later this month.

Agricultural research advances in Africa — including seeds that can improve crop yields — are not reaching farmers, say top scientists.

A national biosafety body has been established in Pakistan, which will monitor biotechnology and trans-border infectious diseases.

A senior African Union official has urged African leaders to allow commercial growing of GM crops.

Scientists from Africa have revealed the origins of the virulent maize streak virus, which causes devastating disease on the continent.

South African scientists are developing a tobacco plant genetically engineered to turn red near landmines.