China Approves More GM Crops to Boost Food Security

China approved five gene-edited crop varieties and 12 types of genetically modified soybeans, corn, and cotton.  Reuters said the expanded approvals are intended to boost high-yielding crops, reduce the need for imports, and ensure Chinese food security.  The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs awarded safety certificates to the 17 crop varieties, according to a document on its website.  The approved gene-edited crops include two soybean varieties, and one each of wheat, corn, and rice.

China mostly imports GM crops like corn and soybeans for animal feed, while cultivating non-GM varieties for food consumption.  Many Chinese consumers remain concerned about the safety of GM food crops.  A ministry document says the safety certificates for the newly approved varieties are valid for five years, starting from December 25, 2024.  China has also approved importing an insect-resistant and herbicide-tolerant GM soybean variety from the German firm BASF exclusively as a processing material, the ministry added.

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