GMR Watch Center

Genetically Modified Rice: Issues in the first half of 2005

Sat, 17 Sep 2005 09:56:58 +0900

Genetically Modified Rice: Issues in the first half of 2005

In Japan the development of genetically modified (GM) rice is mainly promoted by governmental research institutes. Citing "cedar-pollen allergy preventive rice" as an example, they are stipulating both research and commercialization of GM crops in the progress schedule of Food, Agriculture and Rural Areas Basic Plan, expressing their strong intention to proceed with the plan as national policy. As we view the different pamphlets addressing consumers, producers and governmental agencies made in accordance with the basic plan, it also becomes evident that they intend to proceed without exposing the issue too much to opposing consumers, as there are no information on GM development given in the pamphlet for consumers, while there are some (on the "development of pollen allergy preventive rice") in the pamphlet for producers, and more in the detailed pamphlet for governmental agencies.
The controversial field trial of the cedar-pollen allergy preventive rice last year was eventually carried out at the National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences (NIAS) in Tsukuba (Ibaraki prefecture). Further experiment continues in 2005 at the same location, and rice seedlings were planted on June 8.
Meanwhile, field trials of disease resistant rice are carried out at the National Agricultural Research Center's Hokuriku Research Center in Joetsu (Niigata prefecture) despite strong opposition from nearby farmers. This disease resistant rice proclaims "less pesticide use", provoking the wrath of organic farmers.
Although Hokkaido passed the Anti-hybridization Prefectural Ordinance for Growing Genetically Modified Crops, to be enacted in October 2005, the National Agricultural Research Center for Hokkaido Region has announced a plan to start field trials of cool-weather resistant GM rice from 2007.

Abroad, there were news reports that pesticidal rice seeds developed by the Huazhong University of Agriculture in China were commercially sold and the harvested rice was exported. The Japanese government maintained that the rice did not enter Japan, mainly because it was Indica breed, and because Japan doesn't import rice from Hubei region.
The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) announced a plan to develop new Golden Rice containing twenty times more beta-carotene and to commercially produce the rice in Asian countries within four or five years. (Nihon Nougyou Shimbun, 2005/6/5)

Aside from rice, it was found out that pesticidal dent corn (Bt10) – its safety yet to be proven – was grown from 2001 to 2004 in the US and marketed as animal feed. They have also been detected in Japan. Those found at the port were barred from entering the country, but for those already being marketed the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) assured "there is no safety problem". In response to the discovery in March, the European Union (EU) announced in April it would "not allow import of animal feed from the US unless its safety is proven".

Disease resistant rice: Hokuriku Research Center
Segregated field trials are conducted in 2005 on “Dontokoi" breed, resistant to rice blast and bacterial leaf blight. The trials will continue till 2006, and seven lines will be tested. Regarding its safety as food, it has so far been reported that, "safety as food has not been examined, but according to tests conducted by the National Food Research Institute, it was confirmed that one of the two introduced genes, mALS, does not have an amino acid sequence suggested to be a toxic protein, and the other gene, defensin, does not have the sequence suggested to be a toxic protein or an allergen, and its complete digestibility has been confirmed through digestive experiment using artificial gastric and intestinal fluids" (from the Field Trial Plan).
On June 24, farmers and consumers of Niigata prefecture filed a provisional disposition with Niigata District Court Takada Division, urging to stop planting rice seedlings outdoors.

The cedar-pollen allergy preventive rice: National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences
The National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences is conducting segregated field trials in 2005, to be continued till 2006. Regarding its safety as food, it has been reported that, "the cedar-pollen allergy preventive rice containing peptide does not fall under crops approved safe for food or animal feed" (from the Field Trial Plan). It has also been announced that toxicity, reproduction, mutation and antigenicity tests using mice, rats and monkeys will be conducted in 2006 to examine its safety as food, followed by an efficacy evaluation test through human oral administration after consulting the ethics committee of concerned authorities.

Iron deficiency tolerant rice (alkaline soil tolerant rice): Tokyo University Graduate School
Segregated field trials are conducted in 2005 at the Tohoku University, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Field Science Center, for two years until 2007.

Short statue lodging resistant rice: The National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences
Segregated field trials are conducted in 2005 in Tsukuba, Ibaraki prefecture. Plans for 2006 onward are undecided.

Cool-weather resistant rice: National Agricultural Research Center for Hokkaido Region
According to newspapers, Nihon Nougyou Shimbun and Hokkaido Shimbun dated June 9, 2005, National Agricultural Research Center for Hokkaido Region indicated plan to conduct open air experiment from 2007. It will also apply for a patent. Until 2006 it will conduct closed experiments inside the greenhouse.

2004 Current Situation concerning GM Rice in Japan

Tue, 01 Feb 2005 20:34:14 +0900

2004 Current Situation concerning GM Rice in Japan

GM Watch Center

Current Development Status
The Cartagena protocol
In 2004, genetic modification developments in Japan were affected by the establishment of national law based on the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety adopted by the Biodiversity Treaty.　
Firstly, biodiversity impact assessment became obligatory for all genetically modified (hereinafter referred to as GM) crops. Crops that lack impact assessment, though it may already be in market, must newly undergo an assessment.
This is good news to consumers against GM.
However, because the law excluded cultivated species from its biodiversity range, impacts on crops were ignored. Contamination by GM species is beginning to expand, as imported rapeseeds are shipped from Japanese harbors to several parts of the country, and seeds dropped during transportation continue to germinate and bloom elsewhere. It is hard to accept the narrow view Japanese government and Congress take on biodiversity, dismissing these cases as not subject to regulation.
Secondly, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) laid out "Guideline on Experimental Cultivation of Genetically Modified Crops Approved by Regulation on First Type Usage". "First Type Usage" refers to usages in field trials and commercial cultivation. With the establishment of this experimental guideline, related public institutions now must obtain consent from local residents through preliminary explanatory meetings and disclose information.
Consequently, preliminary explanatory meetings concerning GM crop field trials were carried out and information were disclosed, enabling us to be notified of the situation beforehand, rather than after the experiment started as until last year.
Activities were enforced by these efforts.
However, isolation distance specified in the Guideline is not enough to prevent interbreeding.

Field trials
Field trials took place in 2004 as well. Field trials were planned for four varieties, but since one was then switched to greenhouse experiment, only three varieties were actually experimented outdoors.

High concentration tryptophan rice
This is a variety developed by the National Institute of Crop Science (NICS) under the National Agriculture and Bio-oriented Research Organization (NARO), a governmental research organization in relation to MAFF, and was experimented in isolated fields of National Agricultural Research Center in Tsukuba (Ibaraki, Japan). The first isolated field trial took place in 2003, and this was the second field trial.
They grew two lines of the rice variety "Nihon-bare", high in concentration of tryptophan, an amino acid used as additive in animal feed. Their object in 2004 was to produce experimentally cultivated rice necessary for feeding experiment (to chickens).

National Institute of Crop Science (NICS) (http://nics.naro.affrc.go.jp/)

Short stem, fall resistant rice
This is a variety developed by the National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences (NIAS), a governmental research organization in relation to MAFF. Two varieties, one short statued and one elect-leaved, have undergone experimentation.
Both varieties, with characteristics of fall prevention, increased harvest, and improvement of workability, aim for another "green revolution".
Using "Dontokoi" variety as a host, isolated field trials were carried out in a NIAS facility in Tsukuba from May 2004.
One is a variety with short statue, derived by introducing gibberellin-2-oxidase gene that inactivates gibberellin in plants. The other is a rice variety with elect-leafs, derived by introducing modified brassinolide receptor gene, a brassinolide (plant hormone) receptor variant.

National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences (NIAS)
(http://www.nias.affrc.go.jp/gmo/rice/)

Hay fever preventing rice (field trial terminated)
This variety was developed by National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences (NIAS), with collaborative research undertaken by National Federation of Agricultural Cooperative Association (JA) incorporating many farmers in Japan, and field trial planned at the Zen-Noh Agricultural Research and Development Center in Hiratsuka (Kanagawa, Japan).
There are numerous cases of allergies such as nasal inflammation in early spring in Japan due to pollens released from forested cedars. 10% of all Japanese, or 13 million, are said to be suffering from hey fever.
The rice was developed with an aim to prevent these allergic symptoms.
A protein 7Crp not existing in nature is expressed in this rice, by synthesizing artificial DNA corresponding to the active site (epitope) of the allergen protein.
Kawata Masaharu of GMO Information Service Japan (GISJ: http://www2.odn.ne.jp/~cdu37690/) points out, "Because this protein does not exist naturally, safety evaluation different from that carried out on hitherto known GM crops must be undertaken, and it needs to be evaluated as medicine rather than as food".
MAFF has also expressed concern that it should not be permitted as food.
That JA, the farmers association, took part in its development shocked not only consumers but farmers themselves.
Concerns were raised over the risk the variety may hold against the environment and human body.
The explanatory meeting organized by JA got completely tangled, and many protested including local farmers.
Kanagawa prefecture also called for the termination. As a result, JA decided to stop field trials and change to a greenhouse experiment indoors. JA also indicated that it plans to stop its developmental steps within two years.

National Federation of Agricultural Cooperative Association (JA)
(http://www.zennoh.or.jp/)

Anti-GM Activities
After a report on field trials of hay fever preventing rice was broadcasted, more than hundred citizens, farmers and NGOs gathered in the explanatory meeting. Signature campaigns were carried out by citizens and NGOs, and after repeated negotiations, JA dropped the field trial.
Not only the GM rice, but also the field trials of GM potatoes were stopped by protesting local residents.
In 2001, NGOs in Japan demanded Aventis CropScience Japan (currently Bayer CropScience Shionogi) to drop its application of GM "LL rice" as food and succeeded in reversing the company's decision.
In 2001, 580,000 signatures and citizen's protest stopped the development and commercialization of anti-herbicide GM rice developed through collaboration of Aichi prefecture and Monsanto.
This triggered withdrawal of private businesses from GM rice and crops development.
In 2003, 400,000 signatures and citizen's protest stopped GM rice development by Iwate prefecture.
Protesting movements were initiated in Hokkaido, Kagawa, Ibaraki prefectures where field trials of GM rice took place.
As a result, almost all prefectural GM crop developments were terminated.
That leaves governmental research organizations of MAF and research facilities such as Universities. Governmental research organizations such as NIAS continue research developments of GM rice and other crops using a large sum of national budget.
In 2004, citizens and farmers were able to put their strength together to stop development and commercialization of hay fever preventing rice. Citizen's concern and interest against GM crops are increasing.
2004 was designated a United Nations Rice Year, and research sessions related to GM rice were held in Japan. At the same time, the NGOs invited guest speakers against GM from abroad and organized anti-GM meetings.
Currently No! GMO Campaign in Japan is calling nationwide for the establishment of GM Monitoring Network. It is also calling for Declaration of GM Free Zones to municipalities, producer's organizations, consumer cooperatives, etc. In Hokkaido, there is a move to establish an ordinance regulating GM cultivation and experimentation.
As expected, GM promoters are continuously appealing GM's safety through the media, accusing anti-GM movement as "nonscientific and based on ignorance". We must vigorously continue our activities, as there is now a plan to plant GM soy in Hokkaido. However, anti-GM activities in Japan are building strength through several achievements.

No! GMO Campaign　(http://www.no-gmo.org/)
GMO Information Service Japan (GISJ)　(http://www2.odn.ne.jp/~cdu37690/)

The demand to three independent administrative agencies

Thu, 18 Nov 2004 21:05:33 +0900

To:
Shigeru Kuroda, Director of the National Institute of Crop Science, National Agriculture and Bio-oriented Research Organization
Masaki Iwabuchi, Chairman of the Board of Directors, National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences
Katsuyuki Minami, Chairman of the Board of Directors, National Institute for Agro-Environmental Sciences

Demand

We, producers and consumers of Asia and Japan have held an International Year of Rice NGO Action on the theme "We don't want! We won't eat! We won't sell! We won't produce! GM rice
let's drive GM rice out of Asia" from November 2nd to 5th.

During this action, we heard detailed reports from the Asian participants concerning the reality of how the "Green Revolution" has destroyed local agriculture and the livelihoods of farmers. The "gene revolution" occurring now is far more powerful than the Green Revolution, and will inevitably lead to the control of seeds by transnational corporations, the further destruction of local agriculture, and the deprivation of the right to subsistence of the farmer.

GM rice varieties are at the center of the gene revolution in Asia. We have resolutely opposed the tide of the gene revolution moving towards rice ? the staple food that Asian peoples have lovingly cherished and consumed for thousands of years.

In Japan, private corporations and the research institutes of local authorities have one after another withdrawn or retreated from GM rice development. The JA-Zennoh (the Japanese National Federation of Agricultural Co-operative Associations) is also reluctant to go ahead with commercialization of GM rice. In spite of this, the research institutes affiliated to the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries alone, as represented by your research institute, have refused to change their positive stance towards GM rice development. We have difficulty understanding why you would want to push these projects forward even at the risk of alienating the citizens of Japan and of Asia.

In order to preserve the sustainable agriculture of Asia, the environment, and our staple food, we demand that your research institute withdraw from the development of GM rice and other GM crops.

5 November 2004

Steering Committee of the NGO Action for the International Year of Rice
Pesticide Action Network Asia-Pacific (PAN AP) Save Our Rice Campaign

Contact: NO! GM Food Campaign
TEL: 03 5155 4756, FAX: 03 5155 4767

Appeal Approved by the Tokyo NGO Action Conference on GM Rice and the International Year of Rice

Thu, 18 Nov 2004 21:04:55 +0900

Appeal Approved by the Tokyo NGO Action Conference
on GM Rice and the International Year of Rice

We Oppose GM Rice!!
(GM: genetically modified, or genetically engineered)

Rice is an important staple food for us Asian peoples.

According to the concept of the International Year of Rice, the United Nations has proclaimed that "rice is life" itself, and various events have taken place with the objectives of attaining sustainable production of rice and the expansion of consumption of rice. However, the World Rice Research Conference Tokyo Symposium sponsored by the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and supported by the International Rice Research Institute and others, has as its main objectives the sequencing of the rice genome and the development of GM rice varieties.

We, the citizens of Asia, resolutely oppose GM rice. GM rice will drive out traditional rice varieties that peoples of all Asian regions have developed and improved over the centuries, and compulsorily replace them with GM rice varieties that have been developed by the governments of advanced countries or by multinational corporations.

We oppose GM rice for the following three reasons:

Domination of the world seed and food supply by multinational corporations will be enhanced, depriving farmers of the right to grow rice as they wish, and leading to the fear of increased world starvation.
The safety of GM rice has not been confirmed, and this will amplify the anxieties of food consumers.
GM rice will contribute to genetic pollution and the destruction of the ecosystem.

The Asian producers and consumers participating in the NGO Action Tokyo gathering pledge to act in solidarity to oppose the development and commercialization of GM rice.

4 November 2004

Steering Committee of the NGO Action for the International Year of Rice
Pesticide Action Network Asia-Pacific (PAN AP) Save Our Rice Campaign

Contact: NO! GM Food Campaign
TEL: 03 5155 4756, FAX: 03 5155 4767

Another measure in fight against GMO The Soy Trust Movement in Japan

Mon, 29 Mar 2004 21:03:01 +0900

Another measure in fight against GMO
The Soy Trust Movement in Japan

(2004 MAR)

Agricultural situation and food self-sufficiency rates in Japan

A wide proportion of Japanese agriculture consists of rice production, i.e. cultivating rice in paddy fields. Japan is located in Asia-monsoon climate region, with annual precipitation averaging approximately 2000mm, more than double the world average. Therefore paddy rice cultivation comprises the main part of its agriculture, and rice consequently is its staple food.
In the past Japan used to grow wheat, soy, oilseed rape and cotton as staple products as well. However, after World War 2, Japan became one of the major grain markets for the US, and the production within the country of staple products other than rice was abated. Current approximate self-sufficiency rates of such former staple products are as follows: wheat 10%, soy 5%, oilseed rape and cotton 0%. Incidentally, the self-sufficiency rate of corn used as animal feed is also 0%. On the other hand, though the self-sufficiency rate dropped to 96% following import liberalization, rice remains to be self-sufficient.
Major genetically modified (GM) products in today's world market are corn, soy, oilseed rape and cotton. Monsanto Co. currently proceeds to commercialize GM wheat in US and Canada. In Japan, the Department of Agriculture continues its research in GM rice.

The need to raise self-sufficiency rate

When production and export of GM products began primarily in North America, Japan became its major market. Japanese citizens and consumers against genetically modified organisms (GMO) believed that Japan's low self-sufficiency rate, and especially the fact that almost no soy, corn, oilseed rape and cotton are produced on their own land, worked as strong inducements.
Hence, Japanese citizens and consumers began movements to fight against import and production of GM products into and in Japan, and when the products started to force its way through despite their opposition, raised their voices for mandatory labeling system, and called on to domestic farmers to grow non-GM soy, oilseed rape and corn.
Among these products, soy was of particular importance as ingredient of several traditional Japanese foods such as Tofu (soybean curd), Miso (soybean paste), Soy sauce, Natto (fermented soybeans). Thus, they began the "Soy Trust" movement, aiming to visually raise soy production in Japan.
The Soy Trust does not buy off lands. It makes arrangements with farmers to grow soy on his land, and the production cost will be provided by consumer members. The harvested soy will be equally distributed among the consumers who provided the money. Such efforts bestowed by concerned consumers and farmers successfully raised the self-sufficiency rate of soy from 2% to 5% in the past six years. Improvements in the Japanese agricultural policy, which now began to promote wheat and soy production, also acted as favorable elements.

Fighting against planting GM soy in Japan

Though very few, there are farmers who cooperate with Monsanto to grow GM soy. Experimental cultivation took place in three locations within Japan in 2003. However in all three locations experiments were halted with strong oppositions from surrounding conventional farmers and consumers.
One of the experimental locations was in Ibaraki prefecture, an area well known for soy and Natto production. Accordingly, the few GM soy promoters are concentrating their pursuit in this area.
Endeavoring to stand against such move, the annual nation-wide meeting of Soy Trust was held in Fujishiro city, Ibaraki prefecture in January 2004. Several farmers, NGOs against GMO, consumer groups, citizens groups, and environmental organizations gathered for the event.
The meeting was opened with a "Natto Party". Many different kinds of Nattos made of soybeans grown in Ibaraki prefecture and by the Soy Trust were present, and the participants enjoyed various Natto and soybean cuisines, e.g. traditional Japanese, Italian style, etc.
Ms. Hisako Negishi of Norinchukin Research Institute Co., Ltd. then gave a lecture entitled "Regional self-sufficiency and soy", in which she mentioned, "There is no GM product grown in Japan. Farmers and consumer groups must appeal this fact to consumers, and further increase production and purchase of domestically grown farm products. Farmers and consumers both need to especially recognize the importance of eating what is locally grown in the region and of preserving regional environment, as the "Slow-food" movement signifies".
Information on Soy Trust movements in different areas of Japan was exchanged, including the following reports:
- In 2003 Japan experienced cold summer and rice production decreased nation-wide. Accordingly less soy were distributed among consumers in the Soy Trust, resulting in some complaints.
- Some consumers began to rent land and grow soy themselves.
- Local Tofu-maker was asked to process harvested soy into Tofu, and the product was well received by consumers of the region.

The Soy Trust movement has been a successful measure in increasing soy production and protesting against GMO. In 2004 it plans to expand its activities in each small regional area along with the Slow-food movement with the slogan, "We do not eat nor grow GM soy".
Research institutions of the Department of Agriculture conspire to carry out experimental cultivation of GM rice in different areas within Japan every year. The Soy Trust network is functioning effectively in preventing this plot.

The Soy Trust is organized by the NO! GMO Campaign.

Declaration of Victory "Citizens succeed in stopping Iwate prefecture's GM rice!"

Fri, 05 Dec 2003 21:06:50 +0900

Press Information - NO! GMO Campaign Japan
December 1, 2003

Declaration of Victory
"Citizens succeed in stopping Iwate prefecture's GM rice!"

On November 28, more than 450 people from all over Japan gathered in Morioka city, Iwate, to participate in a gathering "No to GMO National Assembly in Iwate".

At the Assembly more than 407,000 signatures were collated of people from all over Japan who had expressed support for a petition demanding a stop to the GM rice(*) research taking place in Iwate

All the participants then set off down the street in the cold to take the petition to the Iwate prefectural government. It was taken into the Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Department.

After receiving the 407,212 signatures from 20 representatives from the Assembly, Mr. Masakatsu Sasaki, the Director of the Agriculture Department, publicly stated that Iwate has decided to abandon its GM rice research.
Iwate conducted an outdoor GM rice experiment this year, which had been due to continue for a further year.

The Director also stated that Iwate will not conduct any further outdoor experiments involving GM rice or any other GM crops.

This is yet another victory for the citizens of Japan and follows on from last year's success in halting Monsanto's GM rice in Aichi prefecture.

As a result of that successful citizens' campaign to stop the Monsanto-Aichi GM rice, Japanese private sector corporations completely abandoned GM rice R&D. However the research facility of the former Ministry of Agriculture,
Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) - now an independent administrative corporation - together with the Iwate Biotechnology Research Centre, maintained their strong commitment to develop GM rice.
Despite which, peoplepower has now succeeded in halting this GM rice research programme in Iwate.

MAFF is currently discussing how to tighten the regulation of outdoor experimental releases of GM crops at research centres, in order to accord with the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, which will enter into force in Japan from 19 February 2004. Iwate's decision is bound to have a strong influence on MAFF's review.

It is now no longer at all easy to work on GM rice R&D in Japan. The same applies to other GM foods as well.

"We do not want GM food! We do not eat GM food! We will not let GM food be produced!". These are the words that are being repeated again and again by the Citizens of Japan and their efforts look set to bring some big results very soon.

In terms of a global perspective on GM farming, the US company Monsanto's attempt to rest control over global food production has not diminished, and the GM farming area is enlarging. In addition, commercialisation for GM wheat is being sought in the US and Canada.

NO! GMO Campaign's next step is to increase its cooperation with other citizens from all over the world in order to bring a halt to GM food.

NO! GMO Campaign
Keisuke Amagasa

For more information please contact:
Keisuke Amagasa (Mr)
Masako Koga (Ms)
no-gmo@jca.apc.org
NO! GMO Campaign
75-2F, Wasedamachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-0042 Japan
TEL: +81-3-5155-4756 FAX: +81-3-5155-4767

(*) The Iwate Biotechnology Research Center was established in April 1992 with 100% funding from Iwate Prefecture. On 3 April 2003, the MAFF approved outdoor trials for a low-temperature resistant rice variety "Sub29" developed by the Iwate Biotechnology Research Center. This GM rice variety (Sasanishiki) contains the glutathione-S-transferase gene, which imparts multiple functions such as herbicide resistance and cold resistance. The problem with this rice variety is that it produces enzymes with multiple functions, and thus contains many uncertain factors. Simply anything could happen, and it is possible that previously unknown problems will arise with this variety in the future. (Source: Citizens' Biotechnology Information Center -CBIC)

Further reading:
NO! GMO Campaign: http://www.no-gmo.org/
Citizens' Biotechnology Information Center:
http://www5d.biglobe.ne.jp/~cbic/english/index.html
GM Rice Watch Center Japan:
http://www.gmrwatch.org/e/index.html
Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (Japan acceded on 21 November 2003)
http://www.biodiv.org/biosafety/signinglist.aspx?sts=rtf&ord=dt

State of Genetically Modified Rice in Japan: First Half 2003

Tue, 12 Aug 2003 20:38:11 +0900

State of Genetically Modified Rice in Japan: First Half 2003

(July 2003 GMR Watch)

Development

* Open field cultivation tests begin in Hokkaido
"Kitaake" rice, an acidic-soil resistant strain (modified with corn DNA) was approved for isolated field cultivation in 2002 and for open field cultivation in 2003. The National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences and the National Institute for Agro-Environmental Sciences lead this development, and open field cultivation will begin this year at the National Agricultural Research Center for Hokkaido Region.
The primary application would be as a seed crop for this acidic-soil resistant variety. Although it is difficult to imagine that this variety would soon be grown for human consumption, the development of this rice variety is currently the most advanced since the development of "Matsuribare" was halted.
After the open field test cultivation, we must be careful of what kind of action develops. In particular, during 2001 and 2002, cultivation tests for genetically modified soy (resistant to Monsanto's Round Up) took place in Hokkaido and there is no telling when commercial planting may occur. This will probably be the first step in the commercial production of genetically modified crops in Hokkaido. It is important that the opposition movement against genetically modified crops gains momentum in Hokkaido.

* Isolated field cultivation tests begin in Tsukuba city, Ibaragi
"Nipponbare," an animal-feed rice variety that stores high concentrations of the essential amino acid tryptophan, was approved for isolated field cultivation in 2003. Development is being carried out by the National Institute of Crop Science. This variety was developed using genetically modified rice enzymes to store high concentrations of tryptophan, an amino acid added to animal feed. The isolated field cultivation is being conducted by the National Institute for Agro-Environmental Sciences in Tsukuba city, Ibaragi.

* Isolated field cultivation tests begin in Kitakami city, Iwate
"Sasanishiki," a cold-resistant rice variety, was developed by the Iwate Biotechnology Research Center. In 2003, approval was granted for isolated field cultivation, and a two-year isolated field cultivation test period is currently being planned. This variety of Sasanishiki rice has been made more resistant to cold by the introduction of genetic material from other rice varieties. The tests will be conducted in outdoor fields at the Iwate Biotechnology Research Center. Incidentally, it said that this variety will also be resistant to the herbicide paraquat.
In response to these developments, farmers in Towa town, Waga County, Iwate, have formed a Genetically Modified Rice Watch Network and are starting a movement to monitor and stop these test cultivations.

* Planning for development and commercialization of rice for treating diabetes
Sanwa Kagaku Kenkyusho Co., Ltd. Nippon Paper Industries, and the National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences all released press releases on May 12 announcing the development of a genetically modified rice variety that contains peptides necessary for insulin secretion. The releases also indicated a desire to commercially develop the rice as a treatment for diabetes.
Even if the rice were to become a commercial product, it could only be supplied under the guidance of a physician. This variety reportedly targets Type II diabetes, a lifestyle disease, but there are some reports questioning the validity of this claim.
Because this variety is one that is not beneficial to production but rather has value added for the consumer, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries is using it to push this entire field of development. The fact that the press releases have been released at this point, during development, shows that there is an attempt being made to recover from the setback to genetically modified rice development caused by the halting of "Matsuribare" herbicide-resistant rice development and the pull-out of JT and Orynova.
But, according to the media, a commercial product is planned for 2006, making it the first such GM rice product.

* Planning a new Green Revolution with a new short stemmed variety
The Bioscience and Biotechnology Center at Nagoya University and The Institute of Physical and Chemical Research have successfully completed the basic research to develop a short-stemmed, high-yield variety of genetically modified rice. This accomplishment was announced on the internet in March 2003 under the title "Successful Genetic Isolation of 'Green Revolution' Rice."

* Preventing Pollen Allergies with Rice
In February 2003, Shigei Medical University and the Department of Agriculture at Tohoku University developed a new rice variety that produces a protein that is a cause of allergies related to cedar pollen. A newspaper article reported that the rice was fed to mice to control the outbreak of allergies by desensitization and that these effects were not diminished when the rice was heated.

* National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences and the International Rice Research Institute Seek a New Green Revolution
The International Rice Research Institute, an independent administrative institution, announced in a December 17, 2003, press release that they were pursuing a new green revolution through genetic engineering over the next five years, working in conjunction with the National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences.

In this way, development of genetically modified rice is being carried out by an independent administrative institution under the guidance of the government. Most of the funding is supplied by the government as well. Furthermore, joint development with the IRRI, who lead the promotion of the development of Golden Rice and herbicide-resistant rice, is making progress. Behind all of this activity, we can see the movement of corporations that promote genetic engineering, starting with Monsanto.
There has been no commercial planting of genetically modified crops in Japan as of yet, but we have not escaped from the planting of genetically modified crops, as evidenced by the test crops of soy and other testing occurring throughout the country.
We must expand our activities to resist these developments.

Current Status

In the autumn of 2002, because of a national opposition movement by consumers and farmers, Aichi prefecture and Monsanto stopped development of the herbicide-resistant "Matsuribare" rice variety.
A group called the "Bio-Produce Group" carried out the demonstration cultivation of an herbicide resistant soy crop in 2001 and 2002. Through the growth of the opposition movement and the concern of the government and local authorities, the cultivation has been limited to Yawara village in Ibaragi prefecture.
Despite this resistance, test cultivation of GM rice has begun in Hokkaido, Iwate, and Ibaragi. In response, the opposition movement to prevent domestic GM crops is spreading and gaining strength throughout the country. In particular, rice farmers in Iwate prefecture are proactively opposing GM rice and are being supported by consumer organizations.
In March 2003, Dr. Vandana Shiva, a leader, activist, and scientist working on global and biotechnological issues, visited Japan. She gave a speech at the NO GMO Foods National Meeting and was warmly welcomed by the Tokyo participants.
From June to July 2003, Percy Schmeiser, a Canadian farmer currently battling Monsanto, came to Japan and gave talks at 9 different locations in Japan. Both farmers and consumers agreed with Mr. Schmeiser when he said that if GM crops were grown in the country, it would be impossible to farm organically within a few years, and farmers would lose the freedom to choose their seeds and their farming methods.
Currently, we are working with local opposition movements to gather signatures and support efforts to stop the test cultivation of GM rice, and the demonstration cultivation of herbicide-resistant soy in Yawara village in Ibaragi.

A Call for Signatures Against Genetically Modified Rice

Thu, 17 Jul 2003 21:09:50 +0900

A Call for Signatures Against Genetically Modified Rice

NO! GMO Campaign
Keisuke Amagasa, Representative

Rice is the staple food of the Japanese people. Rice crops are the backbone of Japanese agriculture.
In 2002, as a result of the efforts of consumers and farmers throughout Japan, development of the herbicide-resistant rice, “Matsuribare,” was halted.
In 2003, new activity involving GM rice has begun.
On April 3rd, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries verified that a cold-resistant variety of rice developed by the Iwate Biotechnology Research Center was safe for the environment and approved isolated field testing.
On April 28th, the National Agricultural Research Center for Hokkaido Region (NARCH) approved open field testing of a rice variety with genetic material from corn (to boost photosynthesis, control growth, and produce larger rice grains) developed by the National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences (NIAS).
On April 28th, the National Institute for Agro-Environmental Sciences (NIAES) in Tsukuba, Ibaragi, gained approval for isolated field testing of a variety of rice utilizing genetic material from a GM rice variety (which accumulates the essential amino acid tryptophan) developed by the National Institute of Crop Science (NICS).
All of these new varieties differ from the “First Generation” GM varieties, varieties developed to be resistant to herbicides or to produce pesticides.
But, if GM rice is planted, not only will natural ecosystems be adversely affected by air-borne pollen, but the production of organic rice will be impossible.
In Hokkaido and Iwate, an opposition movement consisting of consumers, farmers, and cooperatives has begun. Farmers and consumers, fearing damage from rumors, are working together to address the issue of compensation for damage due to genetic contamination or cross-fertilization.
We are conducting a signature campaign aimed at the National Agricultural Research Center for Hokkaido Region and the Iwate Biotechnology Research Center, the main bodies for cultivation testing.
We ask that you show your support in order to stop the research and development of GM rice.

Please show your support by sending the postcards below by the October 30th.

DOWNROAD
(finish)

(Contact) NO! GMO Campaign Office
TEL+81-3 -5155-4756
FAX+81-3-5155-4767

The Tokyo Assembly Declaration of Opposition to the Planting of Transgenic Crops

Thu, 17 Jul 2003 21:08:18 +0900

The Tokyo Assembly Declaration of Opposition to the Planting of Transgenic Crops

The world’s cultivated land area for genetically modified (GM) crops is growing.
According to data released by ISAAA (International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications) this year, 58.7 million hectares of GM crops were planted, about 1.5 times the land area of Japan. The total cultivated area has been increasing annually since 1996.
In 2003, GM soy beans accounted for 80% of all soy bean fields in the United States. Japan depends heavily on foreign-grown, particularly US-grown, crops. Because of this, GM produce in Japan’s food supply is increasing.
The cultivated GM soy beans are a single herbicide-resistant variety produced by Monsanto. Monsanto also has a monopoly on herbicide-resistant cotton. Their market share of rapeseed and corn seeds is also high. Monsanto dominates the majority of GM crops, holding a virtual monopoly.

In Japan, the Bio-Produce Group (Katsutoshi Nagatomo, representative) is working together with Monsanto Japan to promote herbicide-resistant soy.
There were nine locations cultivated in soy in 2001 and six in 2002. It is still unclear how many locations there will be in 2003, but planting is already underway in the village of Yawara in Ibaragi Prefecture.
If GM crops were cultivated in earnest, no one knows what effects may result.
There is anxiety that genetic contamination will occur through air-borne pollens, contaminating near-by soy fields or creating herbicide-resistant weeds.
Once GM crops are grown outside of an experimental environment, we will lose control of them.
The continued destruction of ecosystems currently occurring in Japan, such as the problem with primitive Mexican species, effectively tells this tale.
Cases such as that of Percy Schmeiser of Canada may increase. Mr. Schmeiser not only suffered harm through genetic contamination, but he was then later sued by Monsanto for patent infringement.

The next GM crops to appear will be rice and wheat.
At the end of last year, Monsanto USA applied to the Department of Agriculture and Food and Drug Administration for permission to cultivate and sell GM wheat. Monsanto Canada also made application to the Canadian government. In both cases, the wheat was herbicide-resistant wheat. It is expected that they will make application in Japan soon.
Monsanto is planning on promoting the sales of herbicide-resistant rice in Asia.
However, the citizens of Japan forced Monsanto and Aichi prefecture to halt their joint development of the GM rice variety, “Matsuribare.”
We thought that we had applied the brakes on the advance of multi-national corporations, but in 2003, a public research organization was approved for outdoor testing of GM rice in Hokkaido, Iwate, and Ibaragi and has since begun testing as well.
We cannot approve of GM crops in Japan. Let’s hinder the movement to promote GM soy and halt the outdoor testing of GM rice.
We do not need GM crops on Mother Earth. Let’s eliminate GM foods from our tables.

Once it is planted, the fight is over! Stop the planting of GM crops!
Participants in the Tokyo Assembly

(Executive Committee)
NO! GMO Campaign, Consumers Union of Japan, DAICHI-O-MAMORU-KAI, Japan Organic Agriculture Association, Seikatsu Club

(Contact) NO! GMO Campaign, +81-3-5155-4756

Stop Domestic Cultivation of Genetically Modified Soybeans!

Tue, 18 Mar 2003 21:10:48 +0900

Invitation to the Fifth National Gathering for the Soy Bean Field Trust Movement

Stop Domestic Cultivation of Genetically Modified Soybeans!

National Secretariat of the Soybean Field Trust Movement

Now in its sixth year, the Soybean Field Trust Movement began in 1998 with the slogan "We don't need GM soybeans! We want to eat safe, domestically grown soybeans!"
This unique movement has called for an increase in self-sufficiency for domestic soybeans through the cooperation of consumers and producers. The movement has had a large influence and the amount of planted domestic soybean crops increased-resulting in a self-sufficiency rate increase from 3% to 5%.
However, in other countries in the world, including the United States, GMO crops proliferated. About 75% of the American soybeans imported into Japan are in the form of GMO food products. Our food supply is being threatened daily.
In addition, Monsanto, which has a monopoly on GM soybean seeds and expertise, is pushing for the cultivation of herbicide-resistant soybeans in Japan. Monsanto is encouraging this setting by creating the "Bio Produce Gathering" (Katsutoshi Nagatomo, representative) and also began experimental cultivations in 9 areas during 2001 and in 6 areas - Hokkaido, Fukui, Tottori, Shiga, and Ibaraki (2 areas) - during 2002.
The seeds and materials for the experimental cultivations are provided by Monsanto. Technical cooperation is provided by researchers from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) and reports are made to MAFF's Agricultural Product Promotion Section of the Production Bureau. Monsanto and MAFF have joined forces for these experimental cultivations. These cultivations also have a hidden agenda: to decrease rice production and replace rice with low-cost, labor-saving, herbicide-resistant soybean crops in the paddies.
The experimental cultivation of GM soybeans in these areas is the first step toward standard cultivation nation-wide. If commercial GM soybeans are permitted in Japan, contamination by wind-borne or insect-borne pollen will likely occur. If this does occur, non-GM soybean fields will be affected and there will be no limit on the spread of genetic contamination.
This situation will obstruct organic cultivation because the goal of organic cultivation is to remain free of genetically modified organisms.
Moreover, the belief that domestic soybeans are safe will be jeopardized.
There are very serious doubts about the safety of GM foods: there is a danger that the number of bacteria resistant to antibiotics may increase in the human body and that allergies or damage to internal organs may occur due to unknown toxins in GM foods.
Throughout the world, a movement to resist the spread of GM foods is growing. In African nations such as Zimbabwe and Zambia, the inclusion of GM foods in food assistance programs has been rejected. The EU has intensified regulations that call for the strict labeling of all GM foods. In Japan, the joint research on GM rice by Aichi Prefecture and Monsanto was brought to a halt.
Soybean Field Trust Movement is inviting you to participate in our movement. We aim to not only produce safe, domestically-grown soybeans to eat, but also to prevent the cultivation of herbicide-resistant GM soybeans sought by Monsanto and MAFF.
We need the promise of JA Zennoh, JA Keizai Ren, agricultural cooperatives, agricultural committees and local authorities to "disallow the experimental cultivation or regular cultivation of GM crops," because the cultivation of GM soybeans will damage the image of locally grown soybeans and work against regional promotion. We must also work together to prevent the experimental cultivation and the regular cultivation of GM soybeans in Hokkaido, the nation's largest soybean producing region.

January 30, 2003

Monsanto failed halfway in developing herbicide tolerant rice in Japan

Fri, 20 Dec 2002 21:11:51 +0900

Monsanto failed halfway in developing herbicide tolerant rice in Japan
December 5, 2002

GMO Information Service Japan

Today, December 5, 2002, the chief of The Department of Agriculture and 　Forestry of Aichi Prefecture, Japan answered Ms. Tomomi Nakamura, an 　assembly member that they will stop the research cooperation with Monsanto they have continued since 1996 to develop Roundup herbicide tolerant rice 　strain in Japan. He also said they decided not to commercialize the
herbicide tolerant rice strain considering many Japanese consumers are opposing it.

The Japanese people won the victory after ten-month movement against the 　research. The movement led by NO GMO campaign, an organization opposing 　genetically modified crops in Japan, consisted 148 organizations and groups 　of consumers and organic farmers. They had two big meeting against GM rice in Nagoya, the capital of the Aichi prefecture in July 7 and November 17, 　and handed the petition with signature of more than 580 thousand people 　against the development and commercialization of the GM rice to the Governor of Aichi Prefecture. The prefectural assembly today was noticed how the local government officials answer the question by Ms. Tomomi Nakamura who joined the movement and asked to stop the GM rice development in Aichi Prefecture.

The Monsanto has cooperated with the Agricultural Research Center of Aichi Prefecture these six years giving it money and their patent technology to develop rice strains tolerant to the Roundup herbicide in Japan. The Roundup tolerant gene was injected into a rice strain that was developed by the research center using ordinary breeding technique, and was a recommended strain of the prefecture for farmers by its good taste. The Monsanto would get great profit if succeeded the development in Japan.
However Japanese consumers opposed the development because rice is their main food in dairy life, and made petition with collecting signature against the research.

The Roundup tolerant soybeans shared almost 75% in USA this year. The next target of Monsanto are GM rice and wheat, because both crop are produced six hundred millions a year in the world and are main food of Asian and European people. Then development of genetically modified rice and wheat may the final target of the first generation GM crops that would promise
great profit to the company. The stop of the development of GM rice in Japan may be a great set back for Monsanto. The decision by Aichi Prefecture may influence and act as a brake to other GM crop research by institutes and companies in Japan. This may also be good news for people against GM rice and wheat in Asia and Europe.

December 5, 2002
News from Japan
By Masaharu Kawata
GMO Information Service Japan
http://www2.odn.ne.jp/~cdu37690/

Stop! GMO Rice National Assembly Opens in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture

Sun, 18 Aug 2002 21:12:38 +0900

July 6, 2002
Stop! GMO Rice National Assembly Opens in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture

The Aichi-ken Agricultural Research Center continues development of the herbicide-resistant rice variety "Matsuribare" in cooperation with Monsanto.
Consumer organizations in Aichi Prefecture called for a national assembly to halt development of "Matsuribare" and to prevent the commercialization of this rice variety. On July 6, 2002, about 800 people from all over the country gathered in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture. At the assembly, researchers and journalists opposed to transgenic crops spoke out on the dangers of transgenic foods. The demonstration after the assembly climaxed with the crowd chanting "No transgenic rice!"
On July 8, the 323,097 signatures gathered to protest transgenic research in preparation for this assembly were presented to the governor of Aichi Prefecture and the head of the Aichi-ken Agricultural Research Center.

Shadow of Monsanto Falls Immediately on Prefectures that Call a Halt to　Commercialization of "Matsuribare"

Hiroko Mizuhara, Secretariat, Consumers Union of Japan

The Aichi-ken Agricultural Research Center is located in the sprawling forested hills and the old Aichi Youth Park that make up the Aichi World's Fair site.
At the request of the Assembly Preparatory Committee made to the Aichi-ken Agricultural Research Center, a tour and public meeting were held on July 5. There were about 100 participants who came from as far way as the Kanto region and Kyushu.
The transgenic rice variety "Matsuribare" is being jointly developed by Monsanto and the Aichi-ken Agricultural Research Center. It is hoped that Matsuribare can be used in conjunction with technology from the Aichi-ken Agricultural Research Center to "cultivate rice by broadcasting seeds directly into dry fields" to facilitate the use of Roundup herbicide (glyphosate) to eliminate weeds, a serious problem with dry field cultivation.
The traditional method for rice cultivation in Japan involves transplanting rice seedlings into paddies. Fast growing weeds are kept in check by flooding with water and planting rice seedlings after they have grown a bit. If this method were to be used for large fields, it would be very labor intensive.
The Aichi-ken Agricultural Research Center is trying to popularize a method to broadcast seeds directly onto large, dry fields.
Because Monsanto's Roundup herbicide is not as effective in water, it has little value in paddies.
Both Monsanto and the Aichi-ken Agricultural Research Center agree on their expectations for the transgenic rice variety "Matsuribare" that is resistant to Roundup herbicide.

The public meeting was held in the first floor main conference room of the building and consisted of images from the research. The presentation was followed by a thirty-minute question-and-answer period. To view the transgenic rice variety "Matsuribare" being cultivated in open fields as the last stage of development, we walked up gentle hills as we were being given an explanation.

Reservations of participants about testing methods
The process for the development of transgenic rice for commercialization is as follows.
Closed greenhouse -- semi-closed greenhouse -- isolated field -- open field (application for all the above to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries) -- safety evaluation (application to the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare) -- commercialization.
During open-field testing, evaluation is done on the influence of the transgenic rice on other living organisms, dispersion of pollen, possibility of crossbreeding with similar species, and the characteristics of the variety as a crop.
No application has been made for safety evaluation of the transgenic variety Matsuribare and it is not being cultivated outside of the laboratory.
The Aichi-ken Agricultural Research Center has explained that "currently, we are at the stage of selecting superior individual plants in our research of herbicide-resistant rice" and that "we are at the stage just before commercialization. We won't go immediately to commercialization. Aichi Prefecture has rights as one of the supporters of this project and Monsanto will not claim a monopoly."
There were about 10 to 20 observers accompanying every researcher. The open fields were different than the isolated fields surrounded by netting; they were in a slightly elevated area divided into four square rice paddies where the rice could be touched. The four divisions represented different timings for the application of Roundup herbicide so that the effects could be observed, and the division with no application of herbicide was over-run with grass. Some observers noted that when farmers actually cultivated rice, they would never let the grass grow unchecked.
Of course, since this open field of this transgenic rice has yet to be approved, it had to be harvested before flowers began to bloom.
The assembly and demonstration on July 6 made a large appeal to the people of Nagoya.
Signatures to show support for stopping the research and development of transgenic rice addressed to the governor of Aichi Prefecture and the head of the Aichi-ken Agricultural Research Center were gathered in a short time, just a little over a month, and totaled 323,097.

No Clear Answer for the Question "Will Research Stop?"
On July 8, twenty representatives from the sponsoring organizations visited the Aichi Prefecture Government Offices and presented the more than 320 thousand signatures. The signatures were accepted by Section Chief Hiramitsu of the Agriculture Management Section of the Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishery Division for the Prefecture, and Manager Shioda of the Planning and Information Division of the Aichi-ken Agricultural Research Center.
There was no clear answer to our question, "Will you stop research?" Before this variety can be registered, it must pass environmental and safety evaluations. We were repeatedly told that commercialization would be considered with great discretion.
However, we must never forget that behind the Prefecture stands Monsanto. We are aiming to gather 1 million signatures for the Second Assembly at the end of October. We will continue our plea until development stops.

July 6, 2002 (Saturday) Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture

Tue, 04 Jun 2002 21:14:49 +0900

Information
"Stop! Genetically Modified Rice" National Assembly
We don't want it! We won't eat it! We won't grow it!
July 6, 2002 (Saturday) Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture

The Aichi-ken Agricultural Research Center and Monsanto are continuing the joint development of the genetically modified (transgenic) rice variety "Matsuribare" and research into practical applications for GM varieties. An application will soon be submitted to the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare to approve this herbicide-resistant rice variety for human consumption.
Rice is the main staple of the Japanese people, and growing rice in paddies preserves Japanese scenery. Rice is the foundation of Japanese culture.
We will not eat GM rice-its safety is questionable. If GM rice is cultivated, it is predicted that the ecosystem will be negatively impacted by the dispersion of pollen from the GM crop. This dispersion will also affect organic agriculture.
The image of rice grown in Aichi prefecture will also suffer. There will also be a negative impact on the production and consumption of Japanese domestic rice.

We are holding this national assembly as an appeal to both Aichi prefecture and the Aichi-ken Agricultural Research Center to stop the joint research into development of the herbicide-resistant "Matsuribare" rice variety that neither consumers nor producers want and not to submit the application to the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare.
We don't want, won't eat, and won't grow transgenic rice! Let's make Aichi prefecture and the Aichi-ken Agricultural Research Center listen to our voices.

July 6 (Saturday) 1:00-3:00 p.m. Naka Ward Office Hall, Nagoya City Demonstration following

"Stop! Genetically Modified Rice" Assembly Organizers
Chubu Society for GM Foods
Consumers Union of Japan
Cooperative Network to STOP! GM Rice
Protect the Great Earth Society
No! GMO Campaign

Assembly Contact Information
Chubu Yotsuba Kai

216,859 Signatures Collected for the “We don’t want genetically modified rice!” Campaign to Deliver to Prime Minister

Tue, 28 May 2002 21:01:36 +0900

216,859 Signatures Collected for the "We don't want genetically modified rice!" Campaign to Deliver to Prime Minister Koizumi

On January 30, 2002, Japanese consumer and producer organizations approving of the signatures campaign against genetically modified rice sponsored a meeting to present the signatures in the No.1 Diet Hall for the Lower House.
The collected signatures were delivered in person to a representative of the Cabinet.
Representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF), Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW), and Ministry of the Environment (MOE) were in attendance and directly answered questions from the organizers.
Questions focused on the current state of genetically modified rice, especially on "Matsuribare," genetically modified rice being jointly developed by the Aichi-ken Agricultural Research Center and Monsanto.
Matsuribare received approval for environmental safety from MAFF in May 2001. With this approval, Matsubari can be cultivated in regular fields. However, Matusribare is not actually being cultivated outside experimental fields. In order to develop products, Matsuribare must receive approval from MHLW as a genetically modified food item.
If Matsuribare receives recognition as safe food in Japan, it will not be cultivated domestically only, but it may also be cultivated in China.
There are a few reservations about the environmental safety evaluation for Matsubari by MAFF.
Although there are difficulties with Matsuribare such as short plant height, small number of grain-bearing ears, and significant differences in yield, MAFF has determined that these factors do not constitute a problem. There is also a question whether these significant differences will affect other varieties.
Furthermore, MAFF has determined that hybridization due to pollen is not a problem because rice is a self-pollinating plant and because the chance of pollination beyond a distance of 30 centimeters is 0.23% for non-genetically modified rice and 0.26% for genetically modified rice, which are virtually identical.
However, this also means that a small amount of cross-hybridization is occurring.
In Japan, because rice is grown throughout the nation, it is predicted that genetic contamination because of genetically modified Matsuribare will occur.
MAFF’s environmental impact assessment does not consider these realities of Japanese agriculture and environment.
On the other hand, MOE is involved in the ratification of the Cartagena Protocol that addresses this problem.
MOE is just beginning investigations into how genetically modified crops affect wildlife, if genetic diversity will be affected by cross-hybridization, and whether the wildlife population will decrease. But, this effort is late.
When asked about the purpose of the development of genetically modified crops by Monsanto and the MAFF-affiliated Aichi-ken Agricultural Research Center, the MAFF representative emphasized the possibilities of genetically modified crops by indicating that they would reduce agricultural chemicals, aid in environmental protection, create new functionality in foods, and aid in human health.
This answer prompted some in the audience to say that they were the same as Monsanto and other development companies because they put corporate profits first.
This theory on "Prevention Principles" for food is also taken up in the FAO/WHO Codex Committee and the EU. MAFF and MHLW were question as to their stance in this issue. Both ministries expressed the opinion that genetically modified food is subjected to advanced safety examinations and that damage to ecosystems and health is being prevented.
However, as the outbreak of Mad Cow Disease (BSE) in September 2001 in Japan shows, the current safety examination cannot be said to be functional against predictable dangers.
At this meeting, participating consumers and producers tried to express their anxieties over genetically modified rice. But the government had no new explanations or information to offer these citizens who had collected 210 thousand signatures.
A rice store owner in Ibaragi stated, "Now, the number of people growing rice in Japan's agricultural communities is decreasing suddenly. If genetically modified rice is grown, the numbers will drop even more drastically and consumption will also drop."
Ms. Hashimoto of Teikeimai Network ("Cooperative Rice Network") also expressed an opposing opinion (following article).
In response to this opposition of genetically modified foods by Japanese citizens, the Japanese government is pushing the Green Frontier Policy and continuing the development of genetically modified rice.
Currently, the Japanese government is approving almost all applications for genetically modified foods. Therefore, our next move is to raise public opinion and put increased pressure on developers so that application for food safety examination for genetically modified rice such as Matsuribare will not made to MHLW. We cannot fail.

Namiko Ono

Teikeimai Network's Akiko Hashimoto's Appeal (Summary)

I am an organic farmer in Yasato town in Ibaraki prefecture.
In the summer of 2001, StarLink Corn became a problem. It was confirmed that some corm seeds coming into Japan were contaminated with genetically modified material.
Organic farmers who were harvesting or who were beginning to plant had to search for uncontaminated seeds. However, almost all corn seeds marketed in Japan are imported, and non-genetically modified, domestic seeds were unavailable.
Last year, producers could not provide consumers with corn.
Corn is not our staple food. If we ever had this problem with rice, the problem would be enormous.
Rice is our daily staple.
Rice cultivation and breeding has been occurring over a long period of time, throughout the islands of Japan, by the hand of our farmers.
If genetically modified rice is cultivate in Japan, crossbreeding will occur. My long experience tells me, and any farmer knows, that crossbreeding across varieties happens all the time.
When crossbreeding happens, there will be no way to easily separate the genetically modified seeds from the traditional seeds. Once crossbreeding has occurred, there will be no way to remove the contamination. There is a chance that even heritage seeds that are saved from year to year will be contaminated by genetically modified rice.
Once the contamination has occurred and the danger is understood, how can we protect our children or grandchildren?
I am opposed to genetically modified rice because crossbreeding will force it on all of us, even the growers and consumers who oppose genetically modified food.

Opposition to GMR Organizational Signature Activities -Continued

Tue, 15 Jan 2002 20:59:37 +0900

The Consumers Union of Japan, Stop Genetically Modified Rice Cooperatives Network, NO! GMO Campaign, and the Genetically Modified Rice Watch Center appealed to domestic consumer and producer organizations to collect signatures to oppose the development of genetically modified rice.
On October 5, 2001, a delegation presented the collected signatures to the appropriate development corporations and government offices, but Monsanto refused to accept the signatures.
After negotiating with Monsanto, it was decided that the signatures would be delivered on November 7th.
Seiichiro Yamane, Monsanto vice president, casually accepted the signed documents. The delegates read the text of the document while Mr. Yamane listened in disgust. Mr. Yamane posed some questions to the delegation.
In reference to the section that read, "…the reduction in cost is no more than 10% - 20% less than commercial cultivation." He asked, "A 10 - 20% reduction is insufficient. What were these figures based on?"
The delegates replied, "The figures were based on an explanation by a representative of the Aichi-Ken Agricultural Research Center." Mr. Yamane said that he would "confirm that."
Mr. Yamane further commented, "Agriculture in Japan would increase by a factor of 3 - 5 times because of cost reduction brought by a reduction in labor. We imported technology from overseas because we realized that the amount of cost reduction is an important issue. The main issue was to decide which technology to use. For Monsanto, business development depends on agricultural development. Japanese should stop eating bread."
When the delegates asked about the progress of development of genetically modified rice, Mr. Yamane replied, "There are no technological problems. To provisionally sell it, we would create the safety data."
Although delegates appealed for halting development by pointing out that "Japanese consumers are opposed to genetically modified rice as shown by these signatures we gathered," Mr. Yamane had no reply.
Monsanto asserted, "Although we have not refused these signed documents, protests against these activities would be a violation of the rules." The delegation then indicated that a constructive conference with Monsanto would be sought in the near future.

Koga Mako, Consumers Union of Japan nishoren@jca.apc.org