The SCF-LAC network was formed at the Seed Policy and Programmes Meeting for the Latin America and the Caribbean held in Mérida Yucatan, Mexico in April 2000. The inaugural meeting of its Co-ordinating Committee was held in Punta del Este, Uruguay, in November 2000.



The purpose of the SCF-LAC is to:

• Facilitate communication among the different Working Groups as well as regional seed and crop genetic resources networks.
• Facilitate adaptation of the working arrangements of the Forum to meet member requirements and to ensure efficiency of operations.
• Co-operate to identify and obtain funding assistance from donors and financing agencies for strengthening the Forum activities.
• Participate in issues and undertakings in the other regional initiatives and fora of the FAO and other relevant regional institutions concerned with seed policies and programmes.
• Oversee the co-ordination of the working groups and the management structure of the SCF-LAC after its official status has been recognised.
• Assist in the formulation of national seed policies and projects.
• Provide consultancy support to member countries.

The Scientific and Technical Working Groups of the SCF-LAC and their objectives are as follows:

1. Working Group on Information Systems, Training and Institutional Support

Objectives:

1. Develop an efficient information system incorporating existing regional databases.
2. Implement regional and national training support programs for the countries of the region.
3. Strengthen the operating capabilities of the institutions involved in the seed sector.

2. Working Group on Seed Supply Systems.

Objectives:

1. Assure the access of farmers to quality seeds and improved varieties through the promotion of a sustainable supply of quality, certified seed.
2. Implement a program for the production and utilisation of quality seed for subsistence farmers.
3. Develop clear and open channels for the marketing of quality seed.

3. Working Group on Seed Policies, Harmonisation of Legislation, Regulations, Standards, and Intellectual Property Rights

Objectives:

1. Promote and facilitate inter and intra- regional seed exchange and trade through policies, common strategies and compatible legal frameworks including protection for intellectual property rights.

4. Working Group on Biotechnology and Bio-security in Seed Systems

Objectives:

1. Promote and facilitate the exchange of knowledge and advanced biotechnology training for genetic improvement in the production of high quality seed.
2. Strengthen production schemes using appropriate biotechnology for the acquisition of vegetative propagules and quality seed.
3. Develop standards and procedures in bio-security for the release of genetically modified seed.

5. Working Group Seed Security in Emergency Situation

Objectives:

1. Assist in the alleviation of negative impacts of natural and /or man made disasters on the region´s seed supply.

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