Govt advances GM Corn adoption, forms working group

July 29, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan is moving toward a structured framework for introducing genetically modified (GM) corn technology, with the government seeking to balance agricultural innovation and food security with the protection of existing industries and export markets.

A working group comprising representatives from government institutions, industry, exporters and technology providers will be formed to prepare consensus-based recommendations on regulatory requirements, transition strategy, biosafety measures and supply chain arrangements for GM corn.

The decision was taken during the second meeting of the Committee on Genetically Modified (GM) Corn, chaired by Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, according to the press release.

The committee reviewed progress on actions agreed during its previous session, including policy documents and written submissions received from various stakeholders.

Participants examined the potential of GM corn technology to increase agricultural productivity, strengthen food security, reduce dependence on imports and improve Pakistan’s competitiveness.

At the same time, concerns were raised over the potential impact on the maize milling industry, export markets and established agricultural value chains.

The discussions also covered the coexistence of GM and non-GM maize, regulatory supervision, biosafety requirements, traceability mechanisms, storage infrastructure and supply chain management.

Stakeholders emphasized the need for a carefully managed transition supported by effective regulatory oversight and international best practices.

The framework is expected to enable adoption of modern agricultural technology while maintaining Pakistan’s export competitiveness and protecting existing agricultural interests.

The Finance Minister stressed the need for decisions based on scientific evidence, technical expertise and international experience, while ensuring that concerns of all stakeholders are addressed.

He noted that GM and non-GM maize can coexist under an appropriate regulatory framework and stressed the importance of establishing suitable supply chain arrangements to ensure a controlled transition.

The working group will engage with relevant stakeholders and develop recommendations on the regulatory framework, transition strategy, biosafety protocols and supply chain requirements for consideration by the committee.

The government reiterated its focus on promoting innovation and modern agricultural technologies while protecting Pakistan’s agricultural sector, domestic industries 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, Federal Secretary for National Food Security and Research, CEO Pakistan Green Initiative, representatives of business and export sectors, and technical and scientific experts.

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