Osh – The issue of labeling products containing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is becoming increasingly important in the context of developing the biosafety system in Kyrgyzstan.

On 18 September, a seminar titled “Legal and technical aspects of GMO labeling in the Kyrgyz Republic in accordance with the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety” commenced in Osh. The event is supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Center for Standardization and Metrology (Kyrgyzstandart) of the Ministry of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic.

The seminar was held within the framework of the FAO/GEF project “Implementation of the National Biosafety Framework of the Kyrgyz Republic in Accordance with the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety” and was dedicated to the 80th anniversary of FAO, which actively supports the development of biosafety systems in Kyrgyzstan.

The seminar brought together representatives of regional structures from relevant ministries and agencies, including specialists from pertinent laboratories. Participants studied the regulatory framework for GMO labeling, international standards, risk assessment methods, and modern approaches to the control, monitoring, and detection of GMOs in products.

“Such seminars are particularly valuable for regional specialists, as the mechanisms for controlling and monitoring GMO products are implemented locally,” said Abdymital Chyngojoev, an expert from the FAO project. “These events contribute to enhancing professional skills, strengthening national capacity, and the effective implementation of biosafety mechanisms.”

According to him, the project on implementing the national biosafety framework, launched in Kyrgyzstan in 2023, is the first initiative of its kind in the Central Asian region.

“Significant results have already been achieved: the 'On Biological Safety' Law was adopted in early 2025, with project experts contributing to its development. Currently, relevant regulatory acts are being prepared to implement the provisions of the law,” noted Abdymital Chyngojoev.

Ainagul Abdurakhmanova is a bacteriologist at the Center for Sanitary and Epidemiological Surveillance in the Kadamjay district of Batken region. The laboratory where she works tests 11 types of food products.

“All laboratories in the southern region refer to us. Among the products tested in our laboratory are everyday foods such as meat, eggs, and chicken,” shared Ainagul Abdurakhmanova.

According to her, participation in the seminar significantly expanded her understanding of the provisions of the Cartagena Protocol and issues related to genetically modified organisms.

“The information received will help improve our work. Establishing laboratories for GMO detection is a crucial step in ensuring public health,” she emphasized.

The implementation of such initiatives is of strategic importance for building a resilient biosafety system. It enhances the skills of local specialists, builds the technical capacity of laboratories, and ensures the fulfillment of national priorities and Kyrgyzstan's international obligations under the Cartagena Protocol.

Source:
https://www.fao.org/countryprofiles/news-archive/detail-news/en/c/1742592/