FEDERAL DEMOCRATIC NEGARIT GAZETA OF THE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF ETHIOPIA 12th Year No. 12 ADDIS ABABA – 27th February, 2006 Proclamation No. 481/2006 Plant Breeders' Right Proclamation....Page 3339 PROCLAMATION NO. 481/2006 A PROCLAMATION TO PROVIDE FOR PLANT BREEDERS' RIGHT WHEREAS, the utilization of new plant varieties developed through research play a significant role inimproving agricultural production and productivity; WHEREAS, the development of new plant varieties requires considerable effort and investment; WHEREAS, it is necessary to provide for recognition and economic reward for those who contribute to such effort and investment so as to encourage their involvement in the sector; WHEREAS, it is necessary and appropriate to ensure that the farming and pastoral communities of Ethiopia, who have been conserving and continue to do so in the future the agro-biodiversity resource used to develop new plant varieties, continue to their centuries old customary practice of use and exchange of seed; NOW, THEREFORE, in accordance with Article 55 (1) of the Constitution of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, it is hereby proclaimed as follows: PART ONE GENERAL PROVISION 1. Short Title This Proclamation may be cited as the "Plant Breeders' Right Proclamation No. 481/2006." 2. Definitions In this Proclamation unless the context otherwise requires: 1/ "applicant" means a person who has filed an application with the Ministry for a plant breeders' right; 2/ "Ministry" means the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development; 3/ "breeder" means a person who: a) has bred and developed a new plant variety; or b) has employed or commissioned the work of the person who has bred or developed a new plant variety; or