The Shura Council has passed a draft law establishing a unified Gulf framework for managing plant genetic resources vital for food and agricultural production. The legislation, aligned with Royal Decree No. 65 of 2025, aims to regulate the documentation, classification, protection, and controlled transfer of these resources across GCC states. This move is intended to support sustainable agriculture and enhance food security in the region.
Legal Framework and Objectives
The law formalizes the GCC Unified System on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, designed to safeguard the Kingdom of Bahrain’s agricultural heritage. It institutes fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of plant genetic material, whether in research or commercial applications domestically or internationally. Additionally, the draft supports Bahrain’s commitments under regional and global treaties on plant genetic preservation.
Regional Cooperation and Implementation
The legislation reflects the outcome of a 2022 GCC Supreme Council resolution endorsing a standardized system among member states. Bahrain’s accession to the related international treaty in 2024 underscores its commitment to protecting agricultural biodiversity. The Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture spearheaded the development of this system, emphasizing the importance of preserving local crops and supporting farmers.
Regulation and Enforcement
The unified Gulf framework requires authorized bodies, named by royal decree, to oversee the system’s operation and enforce compliance. The law includes provisions for licensing the use and transfer of genetic materials such as seeds, tissues, and pollen. Penalties are stipulated for violations, including unauthorized collection, import, or export, with courts empowered to order confiscation or destruction of contravening materials. Executive regulations will detail procedures for managing breaches and applying sanctions.
Plant genetic resources form the foundation of crop development, enabling the breeding of varieties with enhanced disease resistance and adaptability to climate change. The law thus aims to secure these valuable resources for current and future generations while promoting agricultural research and sustainability within the Gulf Cooperation Council states.