In Peru, [gene editing] is already beginning to emerge as an ally in facing the challenges posed by climate change, especially for one emblematic crop: the potato.

With more than 3,500 registered varieties, the potato is not only an essential part of national food security, as the first crop of national importance, but also a symbol of Andean cultural identity. 

“Restricting the use of this technology would be a mistake. We need a clear legal framework, based on scientific evidence, that allows for its responsible use,” [Julio Vivas Bancallán, CEO of the Peruvian Seed Association] argues. For him, gene editing is not only compatible with biodiversity, but can strengthen it by accelerating plant breeding processes that would otherwise take decades.

…

Peru thus faces a dilemma: open the door to biotechnology to avoid falling behind in agricultural innovation, or fiercely protect its genetic diversity. The two positions are not mutually exclusive, but they require a broad, informed, and participatory debate.

“We need modern regulation, dialogue between science and tradition, and politics will take advantage of this tool without betraying our biological and cultural wealth,” Vivas concludes.

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