The International Agricultural Research Centers: Poised for change

Abstract

The International Agricultural Research Centers (IARCs) have developed a notable effort in the application of biotechnology to the Third World. Like other organizations that focus on developing countries, however, they are challenged with the need to create linkages with the commercial firms that have come to dominate biotechnology R&D globally, while still preserving their mission. The author presents data from a 1994 survey of the Centers indicating that, although their experience with R&D arrangements is limited, most expect the level of collaboration with firms to increase in the future. The survey also demonstrates a level of biotechnology expertise in the Centers which, along with their germ plasm resources and knowledge of conventional crop and livestock improvement techniques, makes them attractive as potential R&D partners. Results of the survey, and an analysis of changes in technology policy occurring in the developing world, suggest that the success of the IARCs in forging alliances with firms requires that they reconsider their prevailing approach to intellectual property rights. This does not, however, imply that they need to compromise their objective to ameliorate conditions in the Third World.