Pakistan Approves GM Corn Seeds, Boosting Agricultural Innovation

Pakistan has taken an important step towards agricultural innovation and higher crop production with the approval of genetically modified (GM) corn cultivation.

With the support of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) and the Green Pakistan Initiative, efforts are continuing to promote modern technology and improved seeds in the agriculture sector.

GM corn is produced using modern technology and can help improve resistance to pests, diseases and weather-related effects.

After more than two decades of efforts, multinational seed companies are set to receive in-principle approval for the cultivation of GM corn in Pakistan.

A cabinet committee has approved the adoption of genetically modified GM corn cultivation in the country in principle. The meeting was attended by the finance minister and the CEO of SIFC’s Green Pakistan Initiative.

Multinational companies including Monsanto, Bayer, Cargill, Syngenta and Corteva have been active in Pakistan’s seed industry since the 1980s.

According to a State Bank report, multinational companies have played an important role in introducing agricultural innovation and new technology through hybrid seeds.

The approval of GM corn is expected to support the use of modern seeds, increase crop production and improve the agriculture sector’s ability to deal with climate change.