(Last revised: 5 May, 2010 )
(Further information: bbch@wiv-isp.be)

The export of living modified organisms (genetically modified organisms) from the European Community to third countries may proceed according to the requirement of the Regulation on transboundary movements of GMOs.
According to this Regulation, exports of GMOs intended for deliberate release into the environment should be notified to the Party or non-Party of import, allowing it to make an informed decision, based on a risk assessment carried out in a scientifically sound manner. The notification should be ensured by the exporter. The exporter should be responsible for the accuracy of the information provided in the notification. Exporters should await the prior written express consent of the Party or non-Party of import before proceeding with the first transboundary movement of a GMO intended for deliberate release into the environment.

Legal basis:
- Regulation (EC) No 1946/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 July 2003 on transboundary movements of genetically modified organisms.

All relevant administrative functions related to the export of GMOs from Belgium outside the European Community territory are performed by the Federal Public Service (FPS) Health, Food Chain Safety and Environment.