Institutionalization of 'Disease-Free' Certification System for Apple and Pear Orchard Saplings

'Partial Amendment to the Seed Industry Act' Passed at the Cabinet Meeting

[Asia Economy Sejong=Reporter Kim Hyewon] A certification system for virus-free management to prevent infection by viruses or viroids during the production of fruit tree seedlings such as apples and pears will be introduced.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs announced on the 22nd that the partial amendment bill of the Seed Industry Act, which focuses on the virus-free certification system as a key measure for systematic management of viruses and viroids that greatly affect the quantity and quality of fruit trees such as apples and pears, passed the Cabinet meeting.

The virus-free certification system for seeds allows seed producers to receive virus-free certification if they manage to prevent infection by viruses and viroids during the production process of seeds of crops designated by Presidential Decree, such as apples and pears. Specialized institutions equipped with facilities and personnel will be designated as virus-free certification agencies to verify that the seeds produced by seed producers are not infected by viruses, and then issue the virus-free certification.

Additionally, when importing seeds for personal consumption or other purposes, it will be mandatory to report the import including the variety name and quantity to prevent disputes over variety protection rights between overseas variety rights holders and farmers.

A basis has also been established to mandate regular education to improve the capabilities of seed managers who play a role in guaranteeing high-quality seed production and distribution.

An Hyung-geun, Director of the Seed Life Industry Division at the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, said, "We will submit the partial amendment bill of the Seed Industry Act to the National Assembly and strive for its prompt passage through the legislative process."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.