The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) has delayed a key decision on broadening the list of crops covered under its Multilateral System (MLS), following a lack of consensus at the 11th Governing Body meeting held in Lima.
The MLS is a global mechanism that facilitates the exchange of plant genetic resources for research, breeding, and training, with the aim of supporting global food security. Expanding the list of crops included in this system has long been viewed as essential for improving access to diverse genetic material and ensuring fair benefit-sharing among countries and farming communities.
During the latest session in Lima, delegates discussed a proposal to add more plant species to the MLS, which would allow easier international exchange of seeds and genetic resources. Supporters argued that expanding the list is crucial for addressing emerging challenges related to climate change, crop resilience, and sustainable food production. They noted that broader access to genetic diversity can accelerate the development of improved crop varieties and strengthen global efforts to safeguard food systems.
However, despite extensive negotiations, member countries were unable to reach unanimous agreement on the terms of expansion. Differences centred on benefit-sharing arrangements and concerns about how new crops would be governed within the existing framework. Because the treaty operates by consensus, the absence of full agreement meant the decision had to be deferred.
As a result, the Governing Body agreed to revisit the proposal at its next meeting. Until then, the current list of crops under the MLS remains unchanged.
Observers say the delay highlights the ongoing complexities in balancing open access to plant genetic resources with equitable sharing of the benefits arising from their use. Many hope that the additional time will allow member states to refine the proposal and resolve outstanding issues, paving the way for a more inclusive MLS that better reflects the needs of global agriculture.
The next Governing Body session is expected to take up the matter again, with stakeholders expressing cautious optimism that progress can be made toward expanding the treaty’s scope and strengthening international cooperation in plant genetic resource conservation.
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