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July, 2004 - Monsanto would like to respond as follows:
Monsanto is not an importer of grain, nor is it a grain trading organization.
This application is for a commodity approval, which would permit importers of grain to import grain containing this gene. The gene provides protection against "Corn Root Worm", a pest which does not occur in South Africa, but which does occur in the USA. This maize and the gene have been thoroughly tested in the USA, and have been released there.
Corn Root Worm is not a pest of South African maize, and the gene will therefore not be available in South African planting seed. This application will permit South Africa to import grain containing this gene should circumstances develop which require that South Africa import additional grain.
It is difficult during times of surplus production to imagine a situation when a shortage may develop. It is our responsibility to ensure that grain containing this gene can be imported into South Africa if, for whatever reason, a maize (grain) shortage develops.
Monsanto remains committed to a policy of transparency and dialogue with all interested parties and discussions regarding this issue with Grain South Africa will continue.
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