• Seed quality improvement
• Harmonization of phytosanitary regulations
• Investment and technology development in genetically modified seeds
• Intellectual property regulation issues

APSA is currently planning to address these issues effectively.

APSA plans to organise a workshop on the harmonisation of phytosanitary regulations in the Asian and Pacific region in mid-February 2003. This will be followed by a series of deliberations on this subject. FAO recently reviewed the status of agri-biotech research in the region. APSA is arranging contract research activities between the CG centres and the seed industry. We are also helping governments in their capacity-building and human resource training for enforcing PVP and plant patents. APSA seeks, and receives, active support from UPOV, FAO, ISTA, ISF and other organisations in achieving its objectives. APSA would welcome support offered by anyone without strings. This is a continuous process and APSA is addressing the various related issues in a planned way.

We are also assisting the national governments in capacity building for successful formulation and enforcement of pragmatic seed regulations. We hope to do very well in the future.