News Releases

DATE:	September 29, 2006
CONTACT:	Lisa Dry
	(703) 837-8140

Statement by Andrew LaVigne, President and CEO of the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) on the ruling of the World Trade Organization

For Immediate Release Contact: Lisa Dry
(571) 431-7332 direct
(703) 226-9893 mobile
ldry@amseed.org


Statement by Andrew LaVigne, President and CEO of the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) on the ruling of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in favor of the United States, Argentina, and Canada in their WTO case against the European Union (EU) over its illegal moratorium on approving agricultural biotech products and unjustified EU member - state bans of previously approved products.

Alexandria, Va. – September 29, 2006 --“This ruling is confirmation of the importance of a science-based, predictable and transparent regulatory process. We are hopeful that European farmers will now enjoy the same opportunities that U.S. farmers have in access to seeds improved through biotechnology. For ten years U.S. farmers have experienced the benefits of biotech enhanced seeds that result in higher yields, increased efficiency, herbicide tolerance, insect resistance and drought resistance. Biotech seeds are an important tool to better manage the inherent uncertainties in farming.”

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Founded in 1883, the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA), located in
Alexandria, Va., is one of the oldest trade organizations in the United States. Its membership consists of about 850 companies involved in seed production and distribution, plant breeding, and related industries in North America. As an authority on plant germplasm, ASTA advocates science and policy issues of industry importance. Its mission is to enhance the development and free movement of quality seed worldwide.