Genetic resources in Finland

Use of Finnish genetic resources is free for users from both Finland and abroad, and no Prior Informed Consent from the authorities is required for their acquisition. However, if the biological material is collected from nature, the Nature Conservation Act and the limitations of public rights of access must be adhered to.

Genetic resources of crop plants can be acquired from gene banks, using Material Transfer Agreements as stipulated in the Plant Treaty. More information of the Plant Treaty: https://www.luke.fi/en/

If the utilisation of the Sámi people’s traditional knowledge is included in the use of genetic resources, however, Prior Informed Consent must be acquired. A competent authority (the Finnish Environment Institute or, in the case of agricultural or forest genetic resources, the Natural Resources Institute Finland) may be consulted to establish whether it is necessary.