Genetically modified rice adoption: implications for welfare and poverty alleviation
Date
2005-12
Authors
Anderson, Kym
Jackson, Lee Ann
Nielsen, Chantal Pohl
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Sejong University, Sejong Institution, Center for International Economics
Abstract
The first generation of genetically modified (GM) crop varieties sought to
increase farmer profitability through cost reductions or higher yields. The next
generation of GM food research is focusing also on breeding for attributes of
interest to consumers, beginning with ‘golden rice’, which has been genetically
engineered to contain a higher level of vitamin A and thereby boost the health of
poor people in developing countries. This paper analyses empirically the potential
economic effects of adopting both types of innovation in Asia, including its impact
on rice producers and other poor households. It does so using the global
economy-wide computable general equilibrium model known as GTAP. The results
suggest the very considerable farm productivity gains (even if extended beyond
GM rice to include those from adopting other GM grains and oilseeds) could be
exceeded by the welfare gains resulting from the potential health-enhancing attributes of golden rice, which would boost the productivity of unskilled workers
among Asia’s poor.
Description
Keywords
GMOs, Golden rice, Consumer preferences, Nutritional attributes
Citation
Collections
Source
Journal of Economic Integration
Type
Journal article