Wedoany.com Report-Oct. 23, The American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) has been named the leading voice for crop biotechnology advocacy and regulation following the dissolution of the Agriculture and Environment Section (BIO AE) of the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) in July 2025. BIO’s strategic decision to concentrate solely on human health and biopharma prompted a committee of key BIO AE members to identify a successor organization to continue critical work in agricultural biotechnology. After a thorough evaluation and interview process, ASTA was unanimously selected to take on this role.

With full support from its Board of Directors, the ASTA Leadership Team has embraced the responsibility to serve as the primary advocate for plant breeding and crop biotechnology at state, federal, and international levels.

″ASTA is honored to carry this work forward and continue building on our history of strong plant innovation advocacy,″ said Andy LaVigne, President and CEO. ″We recognize the importance of these critical advocacy and regulatory efforts, and we are prepared to uphold the high standards our members and stakeholders expect.″

To ensure a smooth transition, ASTA has developed and begun implementing a comprehensive onboarding plan that integrates additional resources and expertise. This plan aims to provide uninterrupted support across the full range of ASTA member priorities and services while strengthening the collective voice of the U.S. seed sector.

ASTA emphasized its commitment to delivering high-quality service and value to its members. The organization plans to continue advancing innovation, sustainability, and regulatory excellence in agricultural biotechnology, maintaining strong engagement with industry stakeholders.

The appointment reflects ASTA’s established history of plant breeding advocacy and its capacity to address emerging challenges in crop biotechnology. Through this new role, ASTA will coordinate with policymakers, regulators, and international partners to promote effective, science-based approaches that support the U.S. seed industry and enhance agricultural productivity.

ASTA’s leadership highlighted that the organization will maintain continuity in key advocacy programs, provide technical guidance to members, and expand initiatives that foster innovation while ensuring regulatory compliance. The association will also serve as a central hub for education, policy updates, and collaboration across the agricultural biotechnology sector.

Overall, ASTA’s new role reinforces its position as a trusted advocate for the seed industry, reflecting its dedication to supporting sustainable agricultural practices and the development of advanced crop technologies. The organization’s proactive strategy aims to strengthen the U.S. seed sector’s influence in policymaking and regulation, ensuring that members’ priorities are effectively represented and that progress in plant breeding and crop biotechnology continues uninterrupted.