Regulatory considerations on transgenic livestock in Japan in relation to the Cartagena protocol

In Japan, the development and application of living modified organisms (LMOs) are regulated by law (conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity law). Procedures are classed as type 1 for the use of LMOs where no preventive measures against their dispersal into the environment are required and type 2 for the use of LMOs where preventive measures are stipulated. Development and research on transgenic livestock falls under the responsibility of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science, Sports and Technology. Field use of transgenic livestock is controlled by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. The author describes risk assessment and management of transgenic livestock by both ministries.