PAKISTAN, July 5, 2004 -- Pakistan does not have a set of clearly defined federal laws - either for domestic or imported foods. Pakistan adheres to the Harmonized Coding System to classify imported goods. Labeling requirements are strictly enforced.

INDIA, July 5, 2004 -- In June 2004, Indian exports of soymeal, estimated at 60,000 tons, started tapering off due to a lean crush. Soyoil imports picked up, and are estimated at 59,500 tons in June 2004, on softening world prices.

BRAZIL, July 5, 2004 -- Brazil is moving closer to a more complete authorization of the use of agricultural biotechnology. A recent court panel ruled in favor of the authority of the Brazilian Technical Commission of Biosafety (CTNBio) to waive environmental study reports, but upheld the ruling against Monsanto Round Up Ready Soybeans (RRS). Legal specialists believe that this decision will have a positive impact in the Senate where the biosafety bill approved in the House is currently under review. However, due to upcoming municipal elections in October and the mid-year Congressional recess, the bill may not be voted on until the end of the year.