breeders' exemption

The breeders' exemption is a legal provision that allows plant breeders to use and improve existing plant varieties without needing permission or paying royalties to the original creators. This exemption supports innovation in agriculture by enabling breeders to develop new varieties that meet changing needs, such as better yields or disease resistance. Essentially, it encourages the sharing of genetic resources and promotes progress in crop development, benefiting farmers and consumers alike by fostering diversity and resilience in food production.