Exporting Genetically Modified foods

Genetically modified foods have recently become a major source of news throughout the world. In the United States (US) alone there has been an uproar against these foods since many people believe these changes make food unsafe for people to consume. The US government has been slow to react and still has doubts of the safety issues. In European countries however, there is no longer a doubt. There are laws in place to prevent people from creating and selling these genetically modified foods. Now they are also taking a closer look at their imports to be sure these foods are not included. This is not good for the shipping industry in the US if changes mean changes in international cargo shipping. Not only can it create trade imbalances, but it can ultimately affect freight shipping costs as well.

Unfortunately with the US having lower standards for these products this can be a problem for farmers looking to export to these areas. Wheat in particular has recently been stopped for testing. People throughout the world are protesting these modified foods and even farmers that are not export shipping these products are starting to become concerned about being able to ship their crops. Other countries are not going to import their wheat if they think there is a chance of contamination. South Korea has even decided to stop all imports of wheat until they can be sure that there were no crossovers with the genetically modified strains.

Genetically modified goods are becoming a problem for the shipping industry since so many countries are requiring testing before allowing the goods. This is not good for keeping the flow of goods moving through the supply chains. Hopefully the US will get on board with higher standards so that it does not further affect US exports.