Bangkok:A forum discussing the draft of the new Plant Variety Protection Act has revealed divided opinions on Thailand's potential accession to the UPOV 1991 Convention. The seed industry supports the move, citing potential benefits for innovation and investment, while farmers express concerns about losing their traditional rights to save seeds.
According to Thai News Agency, the Department of Agriculture emphasized that Thailand is still in the process of studying the matter. A seminar at Kasetsart University, titled "Analyzing the New Plant Variety Protection Act under UPOV 1991 Unlocking Agriculture or Restricting Farmers' Rights," provided a platform for discussing the implications of joining the International Convention for the Protection of New Plant Varieties, particularly its impact on farmers' rights, plant breeding, and the competitiveness of the Thai agricultural sector.
Ms. Thidakun Saenudom, a director at the Department of Agriculture, highlighted the necessity for Thailand, as a World Trade Organization member, to comply with international trade and intellectual property standards. She explained that joining the UPOV Convention would require amending domestic laws, with an emphasis on balancing agricultural innovation and farmers' seed rights.
Meanwhile, Ms. Boonyanath Nathawong, President of the Thai Seed Trade Association, argued in favor of aligning Thailand's Plant Variety Protection Act with the UPOV 1991 Convention. She believes it will safeguard plant breeders' rights and boost Thai farmers' competitiveness globally. However, she insists that farmers' rights to save seeds for future planting must be maintained.
On the other hand, Mr. Pramote Charoensilp, President of the Thai Farmers and Agriculturists Association, expressed opposition, fearing that the expanded rights for plant breeders could undermine farmers' traditional practices of seed saving, sharing, and trading. Concerns also include the potential rise in production costs if farmers are required to purchase new seeds each season.
The debate underscores the importance of carefully defining plant breeders’ rights while preserving the rights of farmers to save seeds, considering both domestic law conditions and the broader impact on the agricultural sector.