Although the seed sector has specific legislations, piracy of seeds and seedlings still represents a loss of more than R$ 2 billion/year for Brazilian agribusiness.
In order to intensify actions to combat illegal seeds and seedlings, the federal government will soon publish a decreebringing (a) greater clarity on the information required from the producer regarding the varieties saved from one year to the next; (b) information on the creation of technical reserves for each culture; and (c) a better identification system and more severe punishments for those who violate the Plant Variety and Seeds and Seedlings Law sagainst those who produce for their own use in the following harvest.
Among some penalties, the decree provides for the payment of fines that can reach up to 250% of the commercial value of the seized product.
It is important to note that any and all vegetable products sold as “seeds”, which have not been produced from fields registered with the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply (“MAPA”) and in full compliance with the law, are considered pirates. The risks of piracy are seeds without guarantee of origin, without quality and technical assistance, and with the possibility of offering phytosanitary risks due to the spread of pests and diseases.
For further information, please contact us atpatents@murtagoyanes.com.br