Products derived from modern biotechnology are increasingly used in food, agriculture, health, pharmaceuticals and industrial production. As new applications emerge, governments need robust, science-based approaches to assess risks to human health and the environment, while ensuring regulatory systems remain efficient, transparent and internationally aligned. The OECD supports countries through guidance, technical tools and international co-operation to strengthen biotechnology safety oversight.
Biotechnology
Biotechnology is transforming food systems, industry, health and environmental sustainability. As innovation advances, governments face challenges related to safety, regulation and responsible use. The OECD helps countries develop evidence-based policies that support innovation while addressing risks.
Key messages
Biotechnology can help agriculture respond to growing pressures on food systems, natural resources and climate resilience. Innovations in seeds, crop improvement and biological alternatives can support productivity growth while reducing pressure on land, water and other inputs. The OECD examines how innovation and policy can help countries strengthen agricultural productivity while advancing environmental sustainability and food security.
Emerging biotechnologies such as synthetic biology have the potential to transform production systems, support the transition to a sustainable and circular bioeconomy, and contribute to economic growth and resilience. Realising these opportunities requires investment, innovation-friendly ecosystems and governance frameworks that can keep pace with technological change. The OECD supports governments through policy analysis, foresight and international co-operation to foster responsible innovation and help biotechnology deliver economic, environmental and societal benefits.
Explore biotechnology topics
Data and tools
Tracking approved biotechnology products worldwide
The OECD BioTrack Product Database provides official information on products derived from modern biotechnology approved for commercial use. It covers applications in food, feed and environmental release, following national safety assessments. By improving transparency and information-sharing, it supports international regulatory co‑operation and helps governments strengthen science-based safety oversight of biotechnology products.
Measuring biotechnology innovation
The OECD Main Science and Technology Indicators provide a set of indicators that compare the science and technology performance of OECD member countries and selected non-member economies.
The chart shows trends in biotechnology patenting over time, offering insights into technological development and innovation activity in the sector. Patent data can help governments, researchers and businesses understand how biotechnology innovation is evolving and where new technologies are emerging.
More data
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Emerging science and technology domains are fluid and rapidly changing, posing several challenges for measurement and monitoring. OECD measurement work in this area combines complementary approaches to measuring scientific and technological emergence.Learn more
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The most up-to-date list of varieties eligible for seed certification under the OECD Seed Schemes can be found in the electronic database.Learn more
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The activities of the International Energy Agency (IEA) cover bioenergy across the electricity, heat and transport sectors. Find out more about IEA's workLearn more
