GMOs (genetically-modified organisms) are seen as crucial building blocs in enhancing agricultural productivity and efficiency. The first Chinese GM corn and rice varieties were granted biosafety certificates over a decade ago, but controversies over GMO safety have held up the commercialization of these crops.
In the face of rising food security concerns, the Chinese government has embarked on a major overhaul of GMO-related policies and regulations. Since 2019, it has issued biosafety approvals for ten new domestic GM crops and laid out a clear path towards the commercial production of GMOs.
This policy brief gives an overview of the fast-changing regulatory framework of GMO production in China and provides an outlook of the sector’s future development.
Author: JG
