When a South African cargo plane was offloaded at the military section of Indonesia's Makassar airport a few weeks ago, demonstrators and reporters were not allowed nearby. If the consignment had been ordinary cottonseed, no one would have bothered.
Genetic engineering is an emotive subject.
Proponents claim this relatively new technology is environmentally friendly and is increasing crop yields to benefit especially small farmers. The protocol, sponsored by the United Nations, will force risk assessments and informed government consent before transfer. But it is not yet in operation, since it first has to be ratified by 50 countries. Only two have done that so far. South Africa, although prominent in the negotiations, has failed to sign.