Pakistan Moves Closer to Approving Genetically Modified Corn

Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb chaired the second meeting of the Committee on Genetically Modified (GM) Corn on Monday, directing members to develop consensus-based recommendations on the adoption of GM corn technology in Pakistan.

The minister called for constructive discussions grounded in scientific evidence, technical expertise, and international best practices while ensuring that the concerns of all stakeholders are addressed. The committee also reviewed progress made since its previous meeting, including policy documents and written submissions received from stakeholders.

During the meeting, participants discussed the potential of GM corn to improve agricultural productivity, strengthen food security, reduce reliance on imports, and enhance Pakistan's competitiveness.

At the same time, members emphasized the need to protect the country's maize milling industry, export markets, and existing agricultural value chains.

The committee also reviewed proposals related to the coexistence of GM and non GM maize, regulatory oversight, biosafety protocols, traceability, storage infrastructure, and supply chain management. Participants stressed the importance of establishing a structured transition framework backed by effective regulation and international best practices to support the adoption of the technology while maintaining export competitiveness.

Aurangzeb acknowledged the concerns raised by stakeholders and said technological advancement and the protection of existing industries should move forward together through practical and evidence based solutions.

He noted that the coexistence of GM and non GM maize is achievable with a strong regulatory framework and appropriate supply chain arrangements to ensure a smooth transition while safeguarding Pakistan's agricultural and export interests.

The committee agreed to establish a working group comprising representatives from relevant government institutions, industry, exporters, and technology providers. The group will prepare consensus based recommendations on the regulatory framework, transition strategy, biosafety measures, and supply chain requirements for the committee's consideration.

The finance minister directed the working group to engage closely with all stakeholders and finalize its recommendations on a priority basis, reaffirming the government's commitment to promoting innovation and modern agricultural technologies while protecting Pakistan's agricultural sector and export interests.

The meeting was attended by representatives from the public and private sectors, including the Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Agriculture and Food Security, the Federal Secretary for National Food Security and Research, the Chief Executive Officer of Pakistan Green Initiative, members of the business and export community, and technical and scientific experts.

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