The wheat reportedly came from test plots in the Pacific Northwest and was never destined for export, though U.S. authorities later said they were unsure of its origins. Supachai, who is also trade minister and will head the World Trade Organization in three years' time, announced the ban after a meeting of the government's International Economic Relations Policy Committee. The committee agreed to ban the import of genetically modified organisms in food for commercial purposes, but would allow in such seeds for research and experiments, Supachai said. Thailand will also allow the import of grains like corn and soybean to produce animal feed meal, but they will not be cleared for human consumption or for cultivation. The ban will last until the public accepts proof that genetically modified food provides more benefits than drawbacks, Supachai said.
Many nations are wary of genetically modified foods.
The European Union has banned imports of genetically modified food from the United States, citing fear over the possible hazards to consumers and the environment.