This will also mean economic losses for those who had placed the contaminated unsegregated GM corn and food products on the market. Already more than 300 brands of food products have been recalled from supermarkets, grocery shelves and restaurants just in the US alone. More products are being recalled for testing as the extent of the contamination is unknown. These economic losses can run into millions. Japan prohibits GM corn for both animal and human uses.
Japan is the largest importer of corn in the world.
The US supplies one third of its needs. Korea, also a significant importer of US corn, wants the US to pay for the cost of ensuring that the imports are GM free. At present there is no international liability regime for harm caused by genetically modified organisms. The only recourse would be a claim under international customary law. Under international customary law, the only obligation of the State will be one of due diligence .