Developing national strategies on bioprospecting access

Support for the countries of origin of genetic resources to develop national strategies on bioprospecting and access, taking into account relevant multilateral frameworks and instruments.

Developing detailed guidelines and conditions for biodiversity prospecting for domestic and foreign companies.

Countries should develop and implement an efficient permitting system whereby authorisation is required for the collection of any biological or genetic resource to be used for research, trade or commercial purposes. These systems will include the provision of comprehensive information from users and collectors, including the environmental impact of proposed activities and benefit-sharing arrangements. Where appropriate, the consent of local communities and private landowners will be required prior to the collection of material. Consent will also be required from holders of traditional knowledge prior to the collection of such information.