Sri Lanka becomes the first country to ban genetically modified foods from May 1, 2002. The environment ministry has issued a list of 21 items, including a range of soya and tomato foods, to be banned unless proved they are not GM foods. The move receives the support of environment scientists but is not really welcomed by the National Chamber of Commerce which feels that there is going to be a lot of confusion over the ban. Interestingly, the move is likely to benefit local soya producers and help boost share prices in the foods and beverages sector.