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GMOs: Prospects for Increased Crop Productivity in Developing Countries

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  • Evenson, Robert E.

Abstract

Genetically Modified Crops (GMO foods) have been widely available to farmers since 1996. The Gene Revolution, based on recombinant DNA (rDNA) genetic engineering techniques, is seen by proponents as both supplanting Green Revolution varieties, based on conventional plant breeding techniques, and potentially enabling "disadvantaged" production environments, unreached by Green Revolution varieties to achieve productivity improvements. This paper argues that the private firms supplying GM crop products have generally had little interest in selling products in disadvantaged production environments. The paper also argues that present rDNA techniques allow only static gains from specific "trait" improvements. But these GM products can be installed on Green Revolution varieties where continued dynamic varietal improvement is possible. As a consequence, the Gene Revolution complements the Green Revolution, and because trait incorporation expands area planted to Green Revolution varieties, there is potential for productivity improvement in disadvantaged environments.

Suggested Citation

  • Evenson, Robert E., 2003. "GMOs: Prospects for Increased Crop Productivity in Developing Countries," Center Discussion Papers 28504, Yale University, Economic Growth Center.
  • Handle: RePEc:ags:yaleeg:28504
    DOI: 10.22004/ag.econ.28504
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Zvi Griliches, 1958. "Research Costs and Social Returns: Hybrid Corn and Related Innovations," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 66(5), pages 419-419.
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    Cited by:

    1. Takeshima, Hiroyuki, 2014. "Importance of rice research and development in rice seed policies: Insights from Nigeria:," IFPRI discussion papers 1343, International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI).
    2. Zylbersztajn, Decio & Machado, Claudio Pinheiro Jr, 2006. "Contracting Under Weak," 44th Congress, July 23-27, 2006, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil 148300, Sociedade Brasileira de Economia, Administracao e Sociologia Rural (SOBER).
    3. Das, Gouranga Gopal, 2005. "Information age to genetic revolution: Embodied technology transfer and assimilation — A tale of two technologies," MPRA Paper 37250, University Library of Munich, Germany, revised 2006.

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    Keywords

    Crop Production/Industries;

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