Worldwide, gene drive regulations are in flux. Gene drives are being developed using transgenic technology (GMOs) that contain foreign genes, as well as gene editing, including CRISPR (synthetic gene drives), which do not, complicating regulatory oversight as gene editing and GMOs are often regulated differently.
Mexico has not determined the regulatory status of gene drives.
Products/Research
None
Regulatory Timeline
2016: The Mexican state of Yucatan declares itself “GMO” free zone, including all genetically engineered crops and products. The Decree issued without the SAGARPA endorsement and is challenged by the Federal Government.
2005: Mexican Biosafety Law is passed, which regulates the research, production, and marketing of biotech-derived products.
2002: Mexican Senate ratifies Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (CPB), which obligates Mexico to pass domestic legislation harmonizing its domestic laws with international obligations. This leads to the passing the Mexican Biosafety Law in 2005.
NGO Reaction
None
Additional Resources
- Genes and Science’s FAQ on gene editing
- Library of Congress summary of Mexico gene regulations includes detailed analysis of the country’s evolving biosafety laws and liabilities