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Abstract
Wheat genetic materials developed from research at the International Maize and
Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) in Mexico for developing countries have
provided spillover benefits to Australia. Varieties developed from those genetic materials
have resulted in yield increases in Australia. While the initial impact came through the
introduction of higher-yielding semi-dwarf wheat crops, those impacts have continued in
the post-semidwarf period. CIMMYT’s success in developing countries has also reduced
the world price for wheat. While the lower prices affect returns in Australia, the increased
yields in Australia from the CIMMYT spillovers from both the semi-dwarfs and the postsemidwarf
phases have provided benefits to Australia averaging A
$30 million per year.