Policy recommendations for Iran in policymaking on genetically modified products, a comparative study of USA and France

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Allameh Tabataba'i University

2 Allameh Tabataba"i University

Abstract
This study aims to examine the policies, institutions, and stakeholders and to express the differences and similarities between the policies of the United States of America and the Republic of France, two leading countries in the field of biotechnology, but at the same time different in terms of governance requirements for genetically modified products. Based on documentary data and using a comparative analysis method, the results show that facilitating innovation and supporting the agricultural industry and trade are also priorities, but in France, protecting the environment and biodiversity, along with consumer trust and ensuring food security, are more important. The institutional mapping of the two countries shows that in the United States, a single policy-making body under the federal government has been formed with roles divided between the Food and Drug Administration, the Animal and Plant Health Service, and the Environmental Protection Agency, which have a developmental and promotional approach to the issue, while in France, policies are defined under the European Food Safety Authority, and the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Safety and Health and the French Independent Committee for Research and Information on Genetic Engineering have taken a precautionary approach in this regard with a greater emphasis on the environment. Policy recommendations for Iran include: strengthening the regulatory, safety, and risk management system; encouraging research and development of new technologies; increasing public awareness; supporting domestic production; setting standards and labeling laws and increasing public trust; encouraging international cooperation and facilitating trade in GMOs.

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  • Receive Date 18 May 2026
  • Revise Date 07 July 2026
  • Accept Date 19 July 2026