The talks had been clouded by uncertainty, with one sticking point being sanctions for offenders, which pits developing countries against developed ones broadly speaking. Genetic resources are increasingly used by companies in everything from cosmetics to seeds, medicines, biotechnology and food supplements. It's a balanced text," a Western negotiator told Agence France-Presse before the final agreement was reached. Antony Scott Taubman set up WIPO's traditional knowledge division in 2001 but no longer works with the agency. In the end, the treaty text says countries "shall provide an opportunity to rectify a failure to disclose the information required... before implementing sanctions."

Source: Manila Times May 24, 2024 13:15 UTC