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Proposed changes to GM law welcomed

10:01 am on 3 November 2015

The Sustainability Council says proposed changes will tidy up the country's genetically modified organism laws and help protect food exporters.

Environment Minister Nick Smith said changes were needed on the definition of what is and is not a genetically modified organism (GMO) after a High Court decision highlighted drafting errors in the rules.

Sustainability Council executive director Simon Terry said the Government's decision to clarify and update the regulations was a welcome development.

He said the changes would mean New Zealand's laws were consistent with leading international opinion on GMOs and help food exporters who face zero tolerance for unapproved GM content in many markets.