Bt Research 2024, Vol.15, No.1, 30-41 http://microbescipublisher.com/index.php/bt 36 6.1 Regulatory frameworks for Bt crops The regulatory frameworks for Bt crops vary significantly across different countries, reflecting diverse approaches to biosafety, environmental impact, and agricultural sustainability. In China, for instance, the regulatory system for genetically modified (GM) plants, including Bt rice, is well-developed and includes comprehensive risk assessment and management protocols. However, the decision-making process for commercial production approval has been heavily influenced by political and social factors, delaying the adoption of Bt rice despite its demonstrated safety and potential benefits (Li et al., 2016). In the United States, the regulatory framework for Bt crops involves multiple agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which oversees the environmental safety of Bt crops, and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), which assesses their agricultural impact. This multi-agency approach aims to ensure that Bt crops are safe for the environment and effective for pest management (Gassmann and Reisig, 2020). Australia, Brazil, and India also have regulatory systems in place for Bt crops, with varying degrees of success in managing pest resistance. Effective governance in these countries relies on a shared understanding of resistance risks among regulators, growers, and other stakeholders, as well as robust monitoring and compliance mechanisms (Carrière et al., 2019). 6.2 Policy support and public perception Policy support for Bt crops is crucial for their long-term sustainability. In many countries, government policies have promoted the adoption of Bt crops by providing subsidies, technical support, and educational programs for farmers. For example, in Latin America, government vigilance in monitoring Bt-susceptibility and implementing corrective measures has been essential in maintaining the effectiveness of Bt crops (Blanco et al., 2016). Public perception of Bt crops, however, remains a significant challenge. In China, the low level of understanding and acceptance of GM crops among consumers has hindered the commercialization of Bt rice, despite its potential benefits (Li et al., 2016). This highlights the need for better communication and education about the science and safety of GM crops to gain public trust and support. 6.3 International trade and regulations International trade regulations for Bt crops are complex and often involve stringent biosafety assessments to ensure that these crops do not pose risks to importing countries. The global trade of Bt crops is influenced by varying regulatory standards and public perceptions in different regions. For instance, the European Union has strict regulations and labeling requirements for GM crops, which can affect the export potential of Bt crops from countries with more permissive regulatory environments (Carrière et al., 2019). Moreover, the development of pest resistance to Bt crops can have significant implications for international trade. Countries that effectively manage resistance through regulatory frameworks and compliance measures are better positioned to maintain the efficacy of Bt crops and their competitiveness in the global market (Carrière et al., 2016; Tabashnik and Carrière, 2017; Tabashnik et al., 2023). 7 Technological Advances and Innovations 7.1 New Bt varieties and traits The development of new Bt varieties and traits has been a significant focus in the field of agricultural biotechnology. The first generation of Bt transgenic crops primarily included traits such as herbicide tolerance and resistance to insects and viruses. These traits have been successfully integrated into crops like cotton, maize, and soybean, leading to increased yields and reduced reliance on chemical pesticides (Rios, 2015; Koul, 2020). Recent advancements have introduced traits that enhance resistance to a broader range of pests and environmental stresses, improve food and feed quality, and increase input efficiency (Rios, 2015). For instance, the introduction of Bt
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