New Plant Genetics Law Sets Fines of Up to AED 3 Million

A new federal law regulating plant genetic resources for food and agriculture has been approved, introducing penalties of up to three years' imprisonment and fines ranging from AED 50,000 to AED 3 million for violations.

The legislation governs the collection, use, import and export of plant genetic resources and their derivatives, while strengthening oversight of their movement across the country's borders.

Under the law, penalties apply to activities carried out without a licence, the import or export of plant genetic materials without authorised agreements, failure to declare such materials at customs, and the collection of genetic resources from natural sites without official approval. Offenders may face imprisonment, fines or both.

Penalties can be doubled for repeat offences committed within one year or where violations result in significant damage to biodiversity.

The framework also provides for the establishment of one or more national gene banks dedicated to plant genetic resources, with executive regulations set to determine their governance, structure and functions. Customs authorities will have the power to detain undeclared or suspicious genetic materials pending verification.

The law is intended to strengthen biodiversity conservation, food security and sustainable agricultural systems, while supporting scientific research and encouraging private sector investment in agriculture.

It also includes provisions to protect rare and endangered plant genetic resources, preserve traditional agricultural knowledge and safeguard farmers' rights, including their participation in decisions related to conservation and sustainable use.

In addition, the legislation establishes mechanisms for the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the commercial use of plant genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge, including financial returns and knowledge exchange.