MAFF published the results of the 2010 GM Plant Situation Survey on October 14. (See BJ October 2010 for previous survey results.) According to the document, the surrounding areas of 18 import ports were surveyed, of which GM rapeseed was found at nine ports. Of 403 samples of rapeseed (Brassica napus) 112 were GM rapeseed. 863 samples of mustard greens (Brassica juncea) and 276 samples of traditional Japanese rapeseed (Brassica rapa var. perviridis) were found to be GM free. Of the 112 GM rapeseed samples found, one sample was said to contain both Roundup and Basta tolerance. Further, the survey did not cover broccoli and tall tumblemustard (Sisymbrium altissimum, Japanese: hatazaogarashi), for which citizen surveys have confirmed cross-fertilization.

The GM soy survey results note that eight samples of soy volunteers were found at four out of the ten import ports surveyed, and of these five samples from two ports were GM soy. Regarding Glycine soja (Japanese: tsurumame, a wild relative of soybean), the ten samples found were all GM free. Details of the survey can be seen at MAFF�fs website (sorry, Japanese only).

A �gGM Hokkaido Citizens Conference,�h whose planning committee was formed from GM crop proponent professors at Hokkaido University and others, was held at Hokkaido University on October 22 and 23. At the conference, a proposal was formulated narrowing down the uses of GM crops to eight areas such as medical, ornamental, and industrial, and especially stating that the development of GM crops useful for absorbing or alleviating radiation is necessary. The proposal is to be submitted to the Hokkaido administration. (Hokkaido Shinbun 2011/10/24)