American Soybean Association (ASA) leaders have come out in support of AgrEvo USA Company’s decision to postpone the commercial introduction of LibertyLinkâ soybeans that was planned for this spring. The company, instead, will focus on seed production for 1999.

"The American Soybean Association lauds AgrEvo’s decision to delay the commercial launch and instead concentrate on seed multiplication in 1998 for the Liberty Link soybean variety," said American Soybean Association (ASA) President Mark Berg. "ASA and AgrEvo have been engaged in discussions for several months on how best to keep Liberty Link soybeans out of export channels until approvals for importation and processing were obtained in major export markets. Today’s action demonstrates AgrEvo’s strong commitment to stewardship and to protecting the $9 billion export market for U.S. soybean farmers.

ASA has urged AgrEvo, as well as other biotechnology and seed companies involved in the commercialization of biotechnology-derived soybean varieties, to seek international clearances for the importation of biotechnology-derived soybean products into major export markets on a timely basis, preferably before the varieties are commercialized in the U.S. market.

"Since 50 percent of the U.S. soy crop is exported, it is important that import approvals in major markets be obtained before commercialization and commingling of biotechnology-derived soybeans," Berg said. "We can’t afford to lose any export sales based on the lack of regulatory clearances in foreign markets. That is why ASA has taken an active role in working with AgrEvo on its regulatory and commercialization plans. ASA has been assured by AgrEvo that the company is and will actively pursue international clearances for its biotechnology-derived soybean varieties.

"ASA strongly supports AgrEvo’s efforts to make soybean genetic improvements through the use of modern biotechnology, because ASA believes that applied biotechnology will benefit consumers, the world’s environment, agricultural producers, and the entire ag-industry," Berg added. "We look forward to continue working with AgrEvo to bring improved soybean varieties to the domestic and international marketplaces."