An analysis of the market for genetically modified products is carried out, which involves analyzing the main costs of biotechnology industries, the role of patents and farmers' motivations for adopting these new technologies. Then, the role of consumers as final demanders of these products is analyzed. Finally, the main challenges that these new technological developments imply for society in order to solve its basic economic problems are pointed out. The importance of environmental conservation and of achieving equitable access to these new products and knowledge is mentioned here.