Accessing Genetic Resources and/or Associated Traditional Knowledge in the Republic of Belarus

1. In order provide (transfer) genetic resources (GRs) and/or associated traditional knowledge (TK) outside the Republic of Belarus, the GRs Provider and their potential User should contact the National Coordination Centre on Access to Genetic Resources & Benefit-sharing (ABS NCC) and submit the following documents:

(a) An access application form;

(b) A copy of the Genetic Resources and/or Associated Traditional Knowledge Transfer Agreement signed by the Provider and the User;

(c) A document confirming payment for providing (changing terms of) access to genetic resources and/or associated traditional knowledge;

(d) Additional permits:

– A permit for the withdrawal of wild plants or wild animals from their natural habitat to the ABS NCC, provided such a permit is required in accordance with legislation;

– Written consent of the holder of traditional knowledge associated with genetic resources.

2. The ABS NCC directs a request to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection of the Republic of Belarus (Competent National Authority, the Ministry of Nature) for approval of access (or a change of access terms) to genetic resources and/or associated traditional knowledge, except for the cases stipulated by legislation.

3. The Ministry of Nature considers submitted documents and makes a decision about approval or refusal of approval of access (or a change of access terms) to genetic resources and/or associated traditional knowledge.

4. The ABS NCC generates the Internationally Recognized Certificate of Compliance (IRCC) through the Access and Benefit-sharing Clearing-House or rejects its generation based on the decision of the Ministry of Nature.

5. After providing GRs and/or associated TK, the Provider submits a copy of the Genetic Resources and/or Associated Traditional Knowledge Transfer Act to the ABS NCC.

6. The User submits the Notification of Genetic Resources and/or Associated Traditional Knowledge Utilization Results to the ABS NCC prior to February 1 of the year following each year of genetic resources utilization.