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Abstract
Despite the clear influence of European Union biotechnology restrictions on trade patterns, very little work has been done to model these influences or their long-run effects. This paper presents an economic trade theory model of biotechnology, biotechnology research and development (R&D), and biotechnology regulation. The model analyzes the impact of European Union consumer preferences on production and consumption of biotechnology products, the level and national origin of biotechnology R&D, trade patterns, and growth. The results indicate that developing countries may become the major producers of biotechnology agricultural products if they can establish the necessary legal infrastructure; and that European biotechnology regulations effectively act as a capital subsidy to developing countries.