Presidential Decree No. 56/26 amending Decree No. 92/04 of 14 December on the Prohibition of the Importation of Genetically Modified Seeds or Grains.

This Presidential Decree amends the legal framework governing the importation and use of genetically modified (GM) seeds and grains in Angola, within the broader context of promoting agricultural development, economic diversification, and food security. While maintaining the general prohibition on the introduction of genetically modified seeds and grains, the Decree introduces a targeted exception allowing the entry and cultivation of GM cotton and castor bean seeds, excluding their use for edible oil production. The measure aims to strengthen agro-industrial value chains, enhance productivity, and support rural development and private sector participation in agriculture. The Decree also establishes regulatory and control mechanisms for the importation, cultivation, and research of GM varieties, requiring prior authorization from the competent agricultural authority and subjecting such activities to supervision and specific regulatory conditions. It defines a sanctioning regime for illegal introduction of GM materials, including fines and confiscation, with confiscated products to be processed and redistributed for social purposes. The framework thereby seeks to balance biosafety considerations with agricultural development objectives, ensuring controlled use of biotechnology while safeguarding national regulatory oversight.