The majority of OECD Member countries have a system of regulatory oversight for the products of modern biotechnology (including genetically engineered organisms) which are intended for release to the environment. This work programme was established with the goal of promoting international harmonisation in biotechnology.

Commercialisation of a number of biotechnology products in OECD Member countries, particularly new crop varieties, has also moved into trade. In this context, international harmonisation of regulatory oversight in biotechnology will ensure that environmental health and safety aspects are properly evaluated, while avoiding non-tariff trade barriers to products of the technology.

The outcome of this work programme is intended to be used by governments, industry and other stakeholders.

The major component of the programme is the development of consensus documents, which provide common information for environmental risk/safety assessment.

The other important part of the programme is an Outreach activity including the development of BioTrack Online. This includes information related to the regulatory contacts in OECD countries and online databases on the products of modern biotechnology.

The programme also adresses other emerging issues that will facilitate biotechnology regulatory harmonisation.

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