USDA deregulates disputed GMO rice

The USDA deregulated a controversial genetically-modifed rice which was found in batches of U.S. rice certifed as GMO-free sparking trade disputes with Japan and the European Union.

The EU has implemented extensive testing of imported rice to include the LL Rice 62, detected recently in France, at the exporter's expense.

On another front, Vietnam and Thailand agreed to work together to help meet the world demand for rice. Both countries, the world's largest rice exporters, pledged not to produce GMO rice.


Rie grains seen in an undated file photo. The U.S. Department of Agriculture on Friday formally approved a strain of genetically engineered rice whose discovery in commercial stocks earlier this year fueled a trade dispute with the European Union and Japan. USDA/Handout/Reuters via Yahoo News.