Access to Seed Index Shows: Implementation of UPOV 1991 Unnecessary For the Development of a Strong Seed Market

A Policy Brief by the Association for Plant Breeding for the Benefit of Society (APBREBES)

Abstract: It is often argued by the proponents of the UPOV system, that membership of UPOV is a prerequisite to promote breeding activities and support development of a national seed market. But the recently published Access to Seed Index data seems to confirm that there is no causal relationship between the UPOV system and a dynamic seed sector. On the contrary, countries with a non-UPOV sui generis plant variety protection (PVP) legislation or even without a PVP legislation have in some regions the most vibrant seed sector.