South Australia negative impact of accepting genetically modified wine crops

The Barossa and McLaren Vale wine regions in South Australia (SA) stand to lose an estimated USD $30 million in exports as their respective councils remain stunned over a decision to allow genetically modified (GM) crops in their districts.

McLaren Vale grape growers stood to lose up to $20.8 million per annum, while four prominent wineries in D'Arenberg, Paxton, Gemtree and Yangarra could lose a combined $5.1 million immediately.

The Barossa Council said $18 million in premium wine exports was at risk, with 82.1 per cent of survey respondents expecting a negative impact on trade if GM crops were introduced.

It said the combined value of the region's food, wine and grape industry was $1 billion, while the region's canola crops brought another $139 million in exports.

Both councils based their applications on trade and market impacts if their zones could no longer be considered GM-free.