Key Takeaways
- Pakistani authorities approved the cultivation of genetically modified corn.
- The decision was made at a meeting of the Committee on Genetically Modified Corn.
- The process will be completed expeditiously to ensure recommendations are implemented.
Pakistani officials have approved the cultivation of genetically modified (GM) corn, a decision made at a meeting of the Committee on Genetically Modified Corn, presided over by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb.
The meeting, attended by representatives from the public and private sectors, including the Secretary of the Ministry of National Food Security & Research, the Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Agriculture and Food Security, and technical and scientific experts, reached a consensus on the way forward.
The committee agreed to finalise the comprehensive transition and implementation framework for the commercialisation of GM corn alongside existing hybrid and organic maize farming.
The finance minister acknowledged the contributions of all members and stakeholders, stating that the panel had moved from differing positions towards a broad consensus on the way forward.
The prime minister had constituted the committee to undertake an objective, scientific-based and evidence-driven review of Pakistan’s policy regarding the commercialisation of genetically modified maize.
The US administration and some of its farm suppliers, having licences for trial cultivation of GM corn, have been urging Pakistan to commercialise GM corn to enhance crop output by 15-30%.
The committee reached consensus on the co-existence of both local and GM maize cultivation in the country, with all stakeholders submitting written recommendations.
The meeting reviewed progress on consultations with relevant stakeholders and discussed the proposed implementation and transition framework for the commercialisation of GM corn.
The committee emphasised a practical, well-defined framework that addresses the concerns of all stakeholders while ensuring the process remains aligned with the national interest.
