April 11, 2003

FAO-BioDeC is a database meant to gather, store, organize and disseminate, updated baseline information on the state-of-the-art of crop biotechnology products and techniques, which are in use, or in the pipeline in developing countries. The data base includes about 2000 entries from 70 developing countries, including countries with economies in transition.

Data Source: Information was obtained from published literature, surveys carried out by ISNAR as well as information collected by FAO through fact-finding missions and expert consultations. The data base is still incomplete at this first stage. Verification and regular updating of information in the database will be done through a network of national correspondents. All comments, criticisms and suggestions are most welcome.

The main objective of FAO-BioDeC is to give an overview of the different stages of adoption and development of these technologies in different countries and regions; it may assist to identify needs and gaps in agricultural research and offers countries the opportunity to give a closer look to
programmes in neighbouring countries and identify potential partners for joint programmes.

The data base at this stage is limited to research, testing and commercialization of specific crop technologies and products in developing countries. No quantitative information is available with regards to the human capacity or funding involved. It does not cover activities carried out in developed countries even if they are meant for subsequent use or adoption in developing countries, nor does it cover research being carried out in international research centres located in developing countries.

The database will be expanded in a second phase to include the animal, fisheries and forestry biotechnology sectors.